Stalking is a crime that can leave the victim fearing for their life or the safety of their family. This is why San Diego police take the enforcement of stalking laws in California very seriously. If you have been accused of this crime, it is critical you call a San Diego stalking attorney as soon as possible.
Defining Stalking Under the Law
Stalking is the willful, malicious and repeated following or harassing of another person, paired with a credible threat that leaves the victim feeling fearful for his or her safety or the safety of his or her immediate family. While following is a fairly obvious term, harassing can be a little more vague. Under the stalking laws of California, harassing behavior is willful conduct that seriously alarms, annoys, terrorizes or torments the intended victim with no legitimate purpose.
If you have any questions about what behaviors may or may not be covered by these laws, your San Diego stalking attorney can help.
Penalties for Breaking Stalking Laws in California
Whether or not it is in conjunction with domestic violence, stalking is a serious crime. Even a first offense can be charged as a felony with a potential punishment of three years in state prison or a up to a year in jail. A second offense may land you four years in prison. You may also be required to take anger management classes and if the victim was a spouse or someone you were dating, you may also be forced to take a year long domestic violence class as well. In some circumstances, the court may even force you to register as a sex offender, a punishment that will last a lifetime.
If you have violated a restraining order or cyberstalked someone, you may also face additional penalties as well. With so many potential negative consequences, it’s easy to see just how important a San Diego stalking attorney is when it comes to fighting these charges.
Call a San Diego Stalking Attorney Today
When you call this office regarding stalking accusations, Peter M. Liss will review your case, including your relationship with the alleged victim and any previous accusations made against you to determine the best course of action for your particular situation. If you have been accused of stalking another person, please call a skilled San Diego stalking attorney like Mr. Liss at (760) 643-4050 as soon as possible.
Creative Commons Image by Dolly Haorambam
