Miami Stalking Attorney
In the past, stalking someone meant following their every move in person. A person may stalk someone to and from work and know where their victim lives.
Nowadays, stalking someone is even easier. A person can stalk someone without even leaving their own home. This is called cyberstalking and this can have extreme effects on the victim’s mental health. The victim may experience anxiety, depression, and fear. Some victims have even killed themselves over cyberstalking, so it’s a crime that is being taken more and more seriously, as it can sometimes be equated with bullying.
In Florida, the act of harassing, following, continually contacting, or cyberstalking another person constitutes stalking. A person who maliciously and repeatedly follows, harasses, or cyberstalks another person can be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor. However, aggravated stalking is a third-degree felony. A person who stalks someone and makes a credible threat to that person can be charged with a third-degree degree. So can a person who stalks a child under 16 years of age.
Stalking can happen in person or virtually. If you maliciously follow or harass someone, you are causing emotional harm to your victim and could face serious criminal charges. Seek legal help from a Miami stalking attorney from Asilia Law Firm today.
What to Know About Stalking
Stalking and aggravated stalking are listed as types of domestic violence under Florida law. The most basic offense of stalking is a first-degree misdemeanor. Penalties include up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Aggravated stalking is a felony that is punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
If you have been accused of stalking, an alleged stalking victim may file a restraining order against you. This will mean that you cannot come in contact with the victim. You may be prohibited from contacting the victim in any way, even if the person is a family member.
Florida law includes several key concepts of stalking that you should know about:
- This is a course of conduct meant to aggravate or cause distress towards the victim, typically without any real purpose.
- Course of conduct. This refers to multiple acts that take place over a certain period of time, revealing a pattern of intent.
- Credible threat. This refers to a verbal or nonverbal threat delivered by means of communication. This may also include a physical threat, which includes a dangerous act and ultimately puts the victim in fear for their safety.
- This refers to communication or an attempt to communicate with electronic devices with a victim with an intent to instill fear in the victim.
Contact Asilia Law Firm Today
If you have been accused of stalking someone, it’s best to discuss your situation with a lawyer. It’s easy for a stalking situation to be a case of mistaken identity.
A Miami stalking attorney from Asilia Law Firm can help clear your name and help you achieve a fair outcome. To schedule a consultation with our office, fill out the online form or call (786) 420-3014.