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When Your Future Is On The Line, Turn To Us

Stalking Defense Attorney in State College, PA

Under the law, stalking is every bit as violent as assault. Although it’s a non-contact offense, in many ways, stalking is every bit as violent as domestic battery. Stalking is much worse than curiosity-seeking or checking up on someone. Stalking is a pattern of unwanted, repeated, and intrusive behavior directed at a specific person, causing the alleged victim to feel fear, intimidation, emotional distress, and/or concern for their safety. If a relationship has deteriorated from following someone to stalking someone, law enforcement agencies almost always get involved.

Because it is such a serious offense, all stalking defendants need a determined criminal defense lawyer in their corner. The severity goes well beyond the direct consequences, which usually include fines, jail time, and court supervision. Indirect impacts of stalking include immigration problems and university disciplinary issues. Administrative bodies and courts often take alleged stalking victims at their word. A State College criminal defense lawyer is a strong voice for defendants.

Stalking Nuts and Bolts

In Pennsylvania, stalking is a course of conduct (more than one act) toward another person with the intent to either cause substantial emotional distress or place that person in reasonable fear of bodily injury. The multiple acts could be two or three days apart, or two or three years apart. Closely-clustered stalking events simply make it much easier for prosecutors to prove intent. Common stalking behaviors include:

Most first-time stalking cases are first-degree misdemeanors in Pennsylvania.  Suppose the offender has committed previous stalking or other domestic disturbance offenses against the same alleged victim. In that case, stalking is a third-degree felony, which is punishable by up to seven years in prison.

One possible collateral consequence is a Protection From Abuse (PFA) order. Most PFAs include no-contact orders (accidental or otherwise). Keep-away orders often require defendants to make significant life changes, especially if they live near or with alleged victims.

Because stalking has criminal, civil, and administrative consequences (e.g., disciplinary actions by schools or fraternities/sororities), an attorney should have experience in all three areas.

However, do not focus on years of experience. Instead, focus on the proven methods that a State College criminal defense lawyer uses to resolve all three consequences successfully. A losing basketball team that returns all five starters is an experienced losing team. Stalking defendants do not need experienced losers. They need experienced winners.

Other qualities to look for include dedication and accessibility. Your State College stalking lawyer should be dedicated to criminal defense and the principles it stands for. Additionally, your lawyer should be close to your home or office.

Many court-appointed lawyers fit the bill. But judges randomly assign lawyers to stalking cases. Defendants have no freedom of choice. The consequences of stalking are far too severe to leave these matters to chance.

Count on a Savvy Centre County Lawyer

Your worst moment never defines who you are. For a confidential consultation with an experienced criminal defense lawyer in State College, PA, contact Decker Bradburn. Contact us online or call 814-308-8895. Virtual, home, and jail visits are available.