18 Sep 2023

Criminal Defense,Harassment
Criminal harassment is a more complicated crime than many people realize. It references and encapsulates several different crimes that vary in severity. It can be shocking how easily people can end up harassing someone else without even realizing it, or think they are being harassed but their experience doesn’t meet the actual legal definition. The criminal defense attorneys at Lermitte & Lubin, LLC have several years of experience helping people who are facing criminal charges. If you face a criminal harassment charge, contact our office right away.

What is Criminal Harassment?

Criminal harassment, also known as stalking, involves repeated conduct that is carried out over a period of time that causes victims to fear for their safety. It does not necessarily result in physical injury. It can be a criminal offense under certain jurisdictions.
  1. Direct, unwanted, intrusive behavior such as following, watching, or tracking the person.
  2. Indirect unwanted, intrusive behavior such as threatening conduct directed at third parties or the victim's property.
  3. Repeatedly communicating with, either directly or indirectly, the victim.
  4. Engaging in threatening conduct directed at the victim or members of their family.
It's important to remember that the laws regarding criminal harassment can vary widely by jurisdiction, so what constitutes criminal harassment in one place may not be in another. Always consult with a legal professional if you believe you're a victim of such conduct.

Types of Criminal Harassment

Various forms of criminal harassment can take place. These can broadly be categorized into the following types:
  1. Cyberstalking: This form of harassment involves using digital tools, such as the internet and social media platforms, to stalk or harass an individual. Cyberstalkers may send threatening messages, spread rumors, or publish sensitive information about the victim.
  2. Physical Stalking: This type involves physically following, watching, or tracking the victim. It can also involve unwelcome visits to a person's home, workplace, or other places frequented by the victim.
  3. Telephonic Harassment: This kind of harassment involves the use of telephonic communication to annoy, threaten, or intimidate the victim. It can include making obscene phone calls or sending unwanted messages. Email communication would fall under cyberstalking rather than telephonic harassment.
  4. Sexual Harassment: This is a form of harassment where the victim is subjected to unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
  5. Psychological Harassment: This involves causing emotional distress to the victim through repeated, unwanted actions, words, or gestures that are intended to disturb, upset, or annoy the victim.

Consequences of Criminal Harassment

The consequences of being found guilty of criminal harassment can be severe and have long-lasting impacts on your life. They largely depend on the type of harassment and the jurisdiction in which the crime occurred. Here are some potential outcomes for those convicted:
  1. Cyberstalking: Being found guilty of this crime can result in imprisonment and considerable fines. Furthermore, you may be mandated to attend educational programs about the harmful effects of cyberbullying. Your internet privileges may also be restricted or removed.
  2. Physical Stalking: This is often considered a felony. Convictions can lead to jail time, probation, and restraining orders. You may also be required to participate in counseling or psychological treatment programs.
  3. Telephonic Harassment: Depending on the severity and frequency of the harassment, this can result in a range of penalties including fines, jail time, probation, or community service. In many cases, you may be ordered to cease all contact with the victim through restraining orders.
  4. Sexual Harassment: If found guilty, you can face a variety of penalties including job loss, fines, and imprisonment. Mandatory attendance at sexual harassment training or counseling courses may also be part of the penalty. In some cases, you might be required to register as a sex offender, which can have profound impacts on future employment and housing opportunities.
  5. Psychological Harassment: The consequences may include restraining orders, fines, and jail time. You may also be required to attend anger management or other behavioral adjustment classes.
A conviction for any type of harassment can result in a criminal record, which can have far-reaching impacts on an individual's personal and professional life. These can include difficulty finding employment, obtaining housing, and losing certain civil rights. Legal representation should be sought to help mitigate these potential repercussions.

Contact the Attorneys at Lermitte & Lubin, LLC Immediately if You Are Facing a Harassment Charge

It's crucial to understand that criminal harassment is a serious offense, carrying significant consequences that can alter one's life drastically. If you find yourself accused of such charges, it's important to know your rights and to contact our office as soon as possible. We must get started on your case right away. The attorneys at Lermitte & Lubin, LLC are experienced in dealing with criminal charges and are ready to provide you with the necessary guidance and legal assistance. Contact us immediately for help.

How To Find Us

Get In Touch

We aim to promptly address your message. While we maintain strict confidentiality, it's important to understand that reaching out to us does not establish an attorney-client relationship.

"*" indicates required fields