Arrested in Virginia for Stalking?

The crime of stalking is taking seriously, and can result in jail time, and having a restraining order issued against you, which will show up on a criminal record search.

Whether you made a mistake, or someone has made a mistake in charging you with stalking, you need a lawyer on your side to protect and defend your rights. Call me or contact me for a free criminal legal consultation, and I'll let you know what I can do to help get you through this.

What is the Legal Definition of Stalking?

Under the Virginia criminal code, stalking is defined as repeated contact directed at someone that could reasonably be understood to put that person in reasonable fear of death, bodily injury, or criminal sexual assault.

What is the Penalty for Stalking in VA?

Stalking is a Class 1 Misdemeanor, which has a maximum penalty of up to 1 year in jail and a fine of $2500.

If you are found guilty, you will also have a civil protective order (restraining order) issued against you.

If you are charged with a third (3rd) offense of stalking or related charges within the previous 5 years, it becomes a Class 6 Felony offense, with penalties of up to 5 years in prison.

VA Stalking Charge Defense Strategies

Typical defenses of stalking charges involve either challenging the so-called "contact", or challenging the perceived threat. Both elements must be present within the standards of the law for you to be found guilty of the charges.

The facts of a stalking charge vary widely, so it really depends on you case. Call me for a consultation, and I'll go over your case and talk with you about what your best defense options would be, specific to your exact situation.

Call to discuss defense options for this or any other Virginia criminal offense. There is absolutely no obligation for my initial consultation on any Virginia charge.

Sincerely,

The Attorneys of VaCriminalDefenseLawyer.com, Virginia Attorneys at Law

References: Virginia Code for Stalking  - § 18.2-60.3. Stalking; penalty.

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