5 behaviors that could form the grounds for stalking charges
If you’re going through a divorce or custody battle, you may find yourself feeling frustrated about an inability to communicate effectively with your ex through the lawyers or mediators that have been hired to help resolve your dispute. You might be tempted to take matters into your own hands and seek out opportunities to see your ex. Your motives may be good, but your behavior could be misinterpreted. Under California law, following, harassing, or threatening any individual to the point where it causes them fear and distress can be considered stalking. Here are 5 behaviors that could give your ex grounds to press stalking charges against you.
Following
Following an individual or repeatedly showing up at place they are known to frequent is the most traditional definition of stalking. Avoid dropping by your ex’s home or workplace or your children’s school unexpectedly and without permission, especially if there is a protective order in place against you.
Watching
Many types of surveillance, including repeatedly driving past your ex’s home, going through their garbage, using hidden cameras or GPS systems to track them, or hiring a private investigator to do any of these things for you, could be considered stalking.
Unwanted Communications
Harassing your ex by phone, text, email, or snail mail can also be considered a type of stalking. This is true even if you don’t actually say anything threatening—even calling and hanging up can be grounds for a complaint against you. California also has laws against cyberstalking, so excessive messaging on social media or various internet sites can also be considered stalking.
Vandalism
When you’re angry at an ex, it can be tempting to take it out on something they value, like their car or other property. However, if your ex sees the damage as an effort to threaten or intimidate them, it can be considered stalking rather than mere vandalism and may expose you to much harsher penalties.
Threats
Lastly, any type of threat made towards your ex or their family, friends, or coworkers can be grounds for stalking charges.
What To Do If You’ve Been Charged with Stalking
If your ex or any other individual has accused you of stalking, you need to get expert representation right away. Stalking charges can be charged as felonies and result in up to 5 years in state prison in extreme cases. To make matters worse for individuals involved in custody disputes, a stalking conviction can seriously damage your chances of securing a favorable custody or visitation agreement. Fortunately, you can contact experienced stalking defense attorney Torrence L. Howell for help now.
