Stalking Attorney in Castle Rock, CO - Sawyer Legal Group, LLC

Stalking in Douglas County, Colorado occurs when an individual makes credible threats and demonstrates repeated behavior that leads to fear or distress. This crime is more severe than simply bothering someone from time to time. The consistent unwanted contact from another person is a key element of Stalking. This offense often results from difficult breakups where a former spouse or partner refuses to leave the other alone. Criminal charges such as this require swift consultation with a stalking attorney capable of forming a strong defense for a client.

What is Stalking in Douglas County?

C.R.S. 18-3-602 defines Stalking conduct in Colorado. A few important factors include:

a credible threat made against someone,
in relation to that threat, a person repeatedly approaches, contacts, communicates with, places under surveillance, or follows that individual, a member of their immediate family, or their current or previous intimate partner.

Serious emotional distress in an alleged victim is another key element in any this charge. An alleged victim need not provide any proof that emotional distress occurred due to a defendant’s actions. Simply claiming that he or she suffered in this way is enough for law enforcement to manufacture a charge. Credible threats come in many forms and can be:

made in-person
by email
text message
phone call
written letter
physical actions or gestures

Consequences for Stalking in Parker

A first Stalking offense in Douglas County is a class 5 felony. Stalking is also an extraordinary risk crime which can extend the maximum time of incarceration. Possible consequences include 1 to 5 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections and also fines of $1,000 – $100,000.

A second or subsequent crime of stalking (that occurs within 7 years of the initial conviction) can result in a class 4 felony. Sentencing parameters can include 2 to 10 years in prison and as well as fines of $2,000 – $500,000. Class 4 felony consequences also apply when a person is on probation or parole and violates a protection / restraining order by committing Stalking.

Douglas County Defense Lawyer

Police pursue stalking charges vigorously in Highlands Ranch. Thus, it is critical that you consult a reputable defense attorney as soon as possible if you’re facing an allegation or charge. It isn’t unheard of for an alleged victim or witness to misinterpret a defendant’s intentions or entirely exaggerate what they believe occurred. Sometimes a charge results from a situation where Harassment is a more appropriate measure. Nevertheless, hiring expert council up front can prove to be indispensable. Contact an experienced stalking attorney who can preserve vital evidence all while prioritizing your best possible outcome.