NC Stalking/Harassment Lawyer

Under North Carolina law, stalking is defined as a course of conduct directed at another person without legal purpose that would cause a reasonable person to feel fear. The legal definition is relatively broad, but that is on purpose. Many actions can fall under the stalking statutes. In most cases, it involves following or trying to be near the victim or a relative as a means of intimidation. However, there are other options that can be considered stalking. 

You may face criminal charges ranging from a Class A1 misdemeanor to a Class H felony. Victims of stalking may seek protection through obtaining a restraining order. If you have been accused of harassment or stalking, it is crucial to seek the guidance of a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney.

Possible Penalties for Stalking in North Carolina

Stalking and harassment are serious offenses in North Carolina, with potential penalties that can have long-lasting consequences. If someone is convicted of stalking, they could face a Class F felony charge, which is a severe punishment under North Carolina law. You may be required to complete some or all of the following:

• Jail time
• Anger management training
• Mental health treatment or therapy
• Community service
• Restitution

The penalties you receive depend on the actual charges and the severity of the crime. One of the deciding factors in whether you are charged with a felony or misdemeanor is court orders. If you already have a court order, like a restraining order, you will be charged with a felony rather than a misdemeanor.

According to North Carolina’s law, Harassment is considered taking actions against another person more than once that put that person under emotional stress. Stalking or harassment in North Carolina is a serious offense and can result in criminal charges. If someone knows that the harassment they are engaging in is causing another person to fear for their safety, they could face a class 2 misdemeanor charge.

Possible Penalties for Harassment in North Carolina

The first occurrence of harassment is considered a Class A1 Misdemeanor, which is the most severe misdemeanor under North Carolina law. It can result in large fines and up to one year in jail. As with stalking, a previous court order can elevate the charges to a felony and increase the penalties.

Your choice of NC stalking/harassment lawyer can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Harassment can take many forms, whether in person, through computerized or electronic transmissions, or over time. If the harassment serves no legitimate purpose and the defendant knows their actions are causing distress or fear, it could be considered stalking under North Carolina law. This is why it is crucial to have a skilled and experienced lawyer on your side to navigate the legal complexities of these cases.

With the rise of technology and the fall of face-to-face communications, the chances of being accused of stalking or harassment are increasing. What you think is a normal conversation could turn into criminal charges. Regardless of how you found yourself here, the next step is to seek legal assistance. A good legal defense can lead to charges being dropped or the impact on your life minimized. 

Choosing the right lawyer can mean the difference between a successful outcome and a costly mistake. A knowledgeable lawyer will understand the intricacies of North Carolina stalking and harassment laws and will be able to effectively represent you in court. They will be able to gather evidence, build a strong defense, and advocate for your rights throughout the legal process.

If you are facing a stalking or harassment charge in North Carolina, schedule a consultation with our qualified lawyer today. Attorney Brian W. King will provide you with valuable legal guidance and determine the best course of action for your case. Our legal team has more than 305 years of experience helping more than 84,000 clients since 2002, allowing us to use our in-depth knowledge to personalize your legal approach for your case.