What to Know About Stalking and Harassment in Texas

 Posted on January 19, 2023 in Criminal Defense

There are many different situations in which someone may be accused of harassing or stalking another person. One of the more familiar scenarios is after a relationship ends, an ex tries to stay in contact with their former partner. In other scenarios, someone may be wrongfully accused of stalking or harassing someone. Whatever the case, Texas law does not take accusations of stalking and harassment lightly. And if there is probable cause that a crime has been committed, police officers can and will arrest and charge alleged offenders. 

If you have been arrested and charged with stalking or harassment, you would be wise to contact an experienced stalking and harassment attorney to help protect your rights and represent you as you and your lawyer together work to overcome the charges levied against you. 

What Is Harassment and What Are the Associated Penalties?  

If you are unaware of the differences between stalking and harassment, you are not alone. While stalking and harassment are similar, they have vital distinctions. In Texas, harassment occurs when someone tries interacting with someone else against that person’s wishes, particularly if the person trying to interact with the other person is doing so in an alarming, annoying, or emotionally distressing manner. Harassment may take place over the phone or via social media. Generally, harassment is considered a Class B misdemeanor, which can land an offender in jail for up to six months and include fines of up to $2,000. 

What About Stalking? 

While charges of harassment can be brought against someone after a single act, stalking is a bit different. Regarding stalking charges, charges may be filed for actions that occurred on more than one occasion. Stalking may involve repeatedly harassing someone to the point where that person fears for their safety or the safety of loved ones. You may be surprised that even if you have a third party conveying threats to someone on your behalf, you can still be charged with stalking.

Unlike harassment, stalking is a third-degree felony in Texas, which can land an offender in prison for up to 10 years and facing fines of up to $10,000. In addition, being arrested on a second or subsequent stalking offense is considered a second-degree felony, which can land someone in prison for up to 20 years.

Contact a Collin County Stalking and Harassment Attorney

If you have been charged with stalking or harassment, understand that you are in serious legal jeopardy. Contact the highly competent McKinney stalking and harassment lawyers with Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C.. Call 469-333-3333 for a free consultation.

Source:

https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/PE/htm/PE.42.htm