Domestic Violence

Harassment and Stalking Attorney

Harassment is considered to be a serious criminal offense in California. Criminal harassment is often charged as a type of stalking, which is defined broadly in California Penal Code Section 646.9 as follows:

"Any person who willfully, maliciously, and repeatedly follows or willfully and maliciously harasses another person and who makes a credible threat with the intent to place that person in reasonable fear for his or her safety, or the safety of his or her immediate family is guilty of the crime of stalking."

If you have been charged with stalking, it is important to consult with an experienced, zealous criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. You may have been accused of harassment or stalking for allegedly taking any of the following actions:

• Following on foot, in a car or in public transportation
• Photographing or video recording
• Making phone calls and/or leaving voice mail messages
• Leaving unwanted letters, gifts or other items
• Texting, sending e-mail messages, or posting messages, photos or videos on social media sites like Facebook, Craigslist or Twitter, or elsewhere online

We understand the many scenarios that often lead to unwarranted or exaggerated claims of harassment or stalking:

• Former boyfriends and girlfriends seeking revenge by making false reports
• Estranged spouses or soon-to-be ex-wives and ex-husbands engaged in escalating domestic disputes
• Divorced or separated parents seeking to drive a wedge in order to influence child custody and visitation cases
• Antagonistic neighbors or co-workers engaged in disputes
• Misunderstandings, misidentification

Strategies for Defending Against Harassment and Stalking Charges

Are the accusations false or exaggerated? Does the accuser have a verifiable ulterior motive? Can the accuser or police positively identify you as the perpetrator? Did you make a mistake? Whatever the circumstances, it is important to get quality legal counsel promptly. Stakes are high. A conviction of stalking in violation of a protective order or a second conviction of stalking can mean an automatic felony and prison for two to four years.

Contact a Stalking Defense Lawyer

If you have been accused of harassment, stalking or any other domestic violence or criminal threat charge, we will get to the bottom of your case and protect your rights. Call us at (951) 289-0962, at (858) 252-2743, or e-mail us to schedule a no-obligation consultation with a criminal defense lawyer.