Stalking is a frightening experience. When you’ve been stalked, it can make you feel like you’re constantly being watched and that no place is safe. In addition to feeling frightened and alone, victims of stalking might not know whether what they’re going through is illegal.
The laws surrounding stalking vary from state to state, so if you’re afraid that someone is stalking you or you have been charged with stalking charges, it would be wise to research your options. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about stalking in Savannah and Georgia as a whole.
What is Stalking?
Stalking is defined as a course of conduct directed at a specific person which causes that person to fear for their safety or the safety of others, or which causes them substantial emotional distress. In the state of Georgia, stalking is a crime punishable by up to ten years in prison and/or a fine of up to $1,000. Aggravated stalking is a more serious offense, punishable by up to ten years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
If you are being stalked, you may be able to get a court order telling the stalker to stop. This is called an injunction. An injunction can order the stalker to stay away from you, your home, your workplace, or your school. It can also order the stalker not to contact you in any way, including by phone, email, or social media. If the stalker violates the injunction, they can be arrested and charged with a crime.
Who Can Be a Victim of Stalking?
Stalking is a crime that can affect anyone. Men and women of all ages, races, and backgrounds can be stalked. While most stalking victims are women, men can also be stalked. People who are famous or who have some type of celebrity status may be targeted by stalkers. In addition, people who work in certain occupations, such as law enforcement or the media, may also be at greater risk of being stalked.
How are Stalking Cases Handled in Georgia?
Stalking cases are handled in different ways depending on the situation. If the stalking is a criminal offense, the offender may be arrested and charged with a crime. If the stalking is not a criminal offense, but the victim feels threatened, the victim can get a protective order or restraining order against the stalker. This means the offender is not allowed to contact or go near the victim. The restraining order can help you gather evidence if the stalker violates it.
What to Do If You Have Been Charged with Aggravated Stalking in Georgia?
If you have been charged with aggravated stalking in Georgia, it is important to understand the law and what it means for your case. In Georgia, stalking is defined as a course of conduct that harasses, intimidates, or terrorizes another person and which serves no legitimate purpose. This can include – following someone, contacting them repeatedly, making threats, or vandalizing their property.
Aggravated stalking is a felony offense in Georgia and can result in a prison sentence, probation, or other punishment. If you are convicted of aggravated stalking, you may also be subject to a restraining order or injunction which prohibits you from contact with the victim. Intimidation of a witness is also against the law in Georgia and can be punished by a fine or imprisonment.
How Do I File for a Protective Order?
If you are the victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or another form of abuse, you may be able to file for a protective order. A protective order is a court order that can help protect you from your abuser.
If you want to file for a protective order, you should first talk to your lawyer. Your lawyer can help you understand the process and what you need to do. They can also help you fill out the necessary paperwork.
What is Georgia’s Family Violence Act?
The Georgia Family Violence Act defines family violence as a pattern of coercive, controlling behavior that can include physical, psychological, economic, and sexual abuse. This type of violence often escalates over time and usually involves an imbalance of power between the abuser and the victim. Family violence can occur between current or former spouses, parents, children, siblings, other relatives, or people who share a child.
Punishment for family violence under the law can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the severity of the offense. The law also allows victims to obtain restraining orders against their abusers and requires law enforcement to take action when they receive reports of family violence. Stalking and damaging property are also considered forms of family violence.
Contact a Savannah Criminal Defense Attorney Today
If you feel you’ve been accused of stalking, you should seek legal advice to make sure that everything is being done to protect you and your family. If you are the victim of stalking, you should also seek legal advice to understand the laws in your area regarding stalking and how they can best protect you from your stalker. Contact Phillips Carson Phillips by calling (912) 232-0081 or using our online contact form.