Orlando Stalking/Harassment Defense Lawyer

Key Takeaways About Stalking and Harassment Charges 

• Understanding: Stalking in Florida involves repeated behaviors like following or surveilling, intended to instill fear or emotional distress, with the victim’s fear needing to be objectively reasonable.
• Harassment Dynamics: Florida defines harassment as actions without legitimate purpose, intending to alarm or disturb, including excessive messages, loitering, cyber harassment, and verbal threats.
• Penalties: Consequences for stalking and harassment range from misdemeanor charges with possible jail time and fines, to felony charges with significant prison sentences and substantial fines.
• Legal Defense: The Wiseman Law Firm, led by Attorney Simon Wiseman, defends individuals accused of stalking and harassment, focusing on protecting rights and potentially reducing or dismissing charges.

Were you accused of stalking or harassment in Orlando? If so, you likely feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next. Facing criminal charges of this nature can be incredibly distressing, especially when you believe your actions were misunderstood or misrepresented. You may feel isolated, worried about your future, and unsure of where to turn for help. However, with the guidance of an experienced defense attorney, you can navigate this challenging situation and have a better chance of securing the best possible outcome for your case.

At The Wiseman Law Firm, our criminal defense attorneys understand the complexities of stalking and harassment cases, and we are here to provide the support and advocacy you need during this difficult time. Led by Attorney Simon Wiseman, our team is committed to protecting your rights and defending your innocence. Mr. Wiseman works tirelessly to ensure his client’s side of the story is heard and their rights are upheld throughout the legal process.

Understanding Stalking and Harassment in Orlando, Florida

As our society becomes increasingly reliant on digital communication and social interaction, the lines between harmless interaction and criminal behavior may blur, leaving individuals vulnerable to accusations and misunderstandings. Nowhere is this more evident than in cases of stalking and harassment, where advances in technology have created new avenues for unwanted contact and intrusive behavior. Understanding the intricacies of stalking and harassment laws in Florida is essential. Here’s what you should know:

Stalking

Stalking is defined as a pattern of conduct that is intended to cause fear or emotional distress to another person. In Florida, stalking may involve behaviors such as following, surveilling, harassing, or threatening someone repeatedly over a period of time. Elements of stalking include:

• Repetitive Behavior: Stalking typically involves repeated acts or communications directed at the victim, causing them to feel fear for their safety or well-being
• Intent to Cause Fear: The stalker must have the intent to instill fear, intimidate, or cause emotional distress to the victim through their actions
• Reasonable Fear: The victim’s fear must be objectively reasonable, meaning a reasonable person in similar circumstances would also feel threatened or harassed by the stalker’s behavior

If you have been accused of stalking, do not wait to seek legal representation. With the guidance of a skilled criminal defense attorney, you can navigate the legal process with confidence.

Harassment

Harassment involves a course of conduct directed at another person that serves no legitimate purpose and is intended to alarm, annoy, or disturb the victim. In Florida, harassment may encompass various behaviors, including:

• Unwanted Communications: Sending excessive or threatening messages, emails, or letters to the victim
• Physical Presence: Continuously loitering near the victim’s home, workplace, or other frequented locations without a legitimate reason
• Cyber Harassment: Using social media, online forums, or other digital platforms to intimidate, bully, or harass the victim
• Verbal Threats: Making repeated threats or verbal attacks against the victim, causing them emotional distress or fear for their safety

At The Wiseman Law Firm, we have a deep understanding of Florida’s criminal laws and procedures. We can walk arm-in-arm with you throughout the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected at every stage.

Aggravated Stalking

Aggravated stalking is a heightened offense that occurs when the stalker makes credible threats of violence or engages in stalking behavior in violation of a court order, injunction, or restraining order. This offense carries more severe penalties than simple stalking and may involve possessing a weapon while engaging in stalking behavior, which may escalate the threat level and increase the danger to the victim.

Possible Penalties for Stalking and Harassment in Orlando, Florida

Allegations of stalking or harassment can have serious consequences, potentially impacting your personal and professional life for years to come. The severity of the penalties depends on various factors, including the nature and extent of the offense, the presence of aggravating factors, and the defendant’s criminal history.

Misdemeanor Stalking or Harassment

For first-time offenders or cases involving less severe conduct, stalking or harassment may be charged as a misdemeanor offense. The penalties for misdemeanor stalking or harassment in Florida may include up to one year in jail, fines of up to $1,000, and probation.

Felony Stalking or Harassment

In cases involving aggravating factors or repeat offenses, stalking or harassment may be charged as a felony offense. Felony stalking or harassment carries more severe penalties, including:

• Prison Sentence: Felony offenses may result in a significant prison sentence, ranging from several years to decades
• Substantial Fines: Convicted individuals may face substantial fines, often amounting to thousands of dollars
• Probation: Felony offenders may be placed on probation following their release from prison, during which they must comply with strict conditions set by the court

In addition to the penalties outlined above, individuals convicted of aggravated stalking may face enhanced prison sentences, permanent criminal records, and restraining orders.

How The Wiseman Law Firm Can Help with Stalking and Harassment Charges

When you partner with The Wiseman Law Firm, Attorney Wiseman will conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations against you, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing the facts of your case. In some cases, he may be able to negotiate with prosecutors to have your charges reduced or dismissed altogether.

Don’t wait another moment to secure the experienced legal advocacy you deserve – contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your legal options. Call (407) 420-4647 or reach out to us online to get started.