Understanding Criminal Harassment and How a Criminal Harassment Attorney Can Help You

Criminal harassment is a serious offense that can affect your life in significant ways, often leading to severe legal consequences. If you find yourself accused of criminal harassment, it is crucial to understand what the charge entails and how a skilled criminal harassment attorney can help navigate the legal process. At Lykins Law, we specialize in defending individuals facing a variety of criminal charges, including harassment. In this blog, we will explore what criminal harassment is, the legal implications, and why it’s important to seek professional legal help if you are accused of this crime.

What is Criminal Harassment?

Criminal harassment refers to a pattern of behavior that causes another person to fear for their safety or the safety of someone else. This includes actions such as repeated unwanted communication, stalking, or other forms of intimidating behavior. Unlike civil harassment, which involves non-criminal disputes between individuals, criminal harassment is a criminal charge that can lead to prosecution and legal penalties.

In Michigan, criminal harassment is defined under MCL 750.411h. According to this statute, harassment involves any repeated conduct that causes the victim emotional distress, fear, or anxiety. This could include:

• Repeated phone calls, texts, or emails
• Following the victim or showing up uninvited at their home or workplace
• Making threatening statements or gestures
• Posting harmful or threatening content about the victim online
• Engaging in other forms of unwanted contact or intimidation

The key element of criminal harassment is the victim’s fear for their safety or the safety of others due to the defendant’s actions. A victim does not have to be physically harmed to bring a harassment charge; the mere fear or distress caused by repeated behavior can lead to criminal charges.

Types of Criminal Harassment

There are various forms of criminal harassment, and the exact nature of the behavior will determine the charge against the accused. Some common types of harassment include:

• Stalking: This is a more severe form of harassment that involves repeatedly following or surveilling another person without their consent. Stalking can cause significant psychological harm to the victim and is treated as a serious criminal offense.

• Cyber Harassment: With the rise of social media and digital communication, cyber harassment has become an increasingly common issue. Cyber harassment involves the use of electronic devices to send threatening or abusive messages, create fake online profiles, or spread harmful rumors.

• Threatening Behavior: Direct threats, whether in person, via phone, or online, can lead to harassment charges. Making a person feel unsafe with the intent to intimidate can result in criminal charges.

• Verbal Harassment: Although less commonly recognized as criminal harassment, repeated verbal threats or aggressive language can contribute to a harassment charge, especially when it leads to fear or emotional distress.

Consequences of Criminal Harassment

The consequences of a criminal harassment conviction can be life-altering. In Michigan, criminal harassment is typically classified as a misdemeanor, but it can lead to serious penalties, including:

• Imprisonment: A conviction for criminal harassment can result in a jail sentence, typically up to 93 days for a misdemeanor. If the behavior involves stalking or threats of violence, the sentence can be more severe.

• Fines: A convicted individual may be required to pay fines, which can vary depending on the severity of the charge.

• Restraining Orders: The court may issue a restraining order or order the accused to stay away from the victim, limiting their freedom and interactions with others.

• Permanent Criminal Record: A criminal conviction will leave a permanent mark on your criminal record, affecting future employment opportunities, housing options, and more.

• Psychological and Social Impact: Being accused of criminal harassment can also have a social stigma. The emotional and psychological effects of the accusation can be long-lasting, damaging your reputation and personal relationships.

Why You Need a Criminal Harassment Attorney

If you are facing criminal harassment charges in Michigan, having a qualified criminal harassment attorney by your side is essential. A skilled attorney from Lykins Law can help you understand your rights, defend against the charges, and guide you through the legal process.

Here are some reasons why hiring a criminal harassment attorney is crucial:

1. Understanding the Law: The laws surrounding harassment are complex, and each case is unique. An experienced attorney can explain the legal process and how the law applies to your specific situation.

2. Developing a Defense Strategy: A criminal harassment attorney will work with you to develop an effective defense strategy. Depending on the circumstances, defenses may include proving that the actions were not repeated or were not intended to cause fear.

3. Negotiating a Settlement or Plea Deal: In some cases, it may be in your best interest to negotiate a plea deal to reduce the charges or penalties. A criminal harassment attorney can negotiate on your behalf, aiming for the best possible outcome.

4. Protecting Your Rights: Having an attorney ensures that your constitutional rights are protected throughout the legal process. Your attorney will work to ensure you are treated fairly and that evidence is handled properly.

5. Navigating the Emotional Stress: Being accused of criminal harassment can take a toll on your mental health. Having a compassionate attorney to guide you through the process can reduce the emotional stress and uncertainty of the situation.

Steps to Take If You Are Accused of Criminal Harassment

If you are accused of criminal harassment, taking the following steps can help protect your rights and ensure you are prepared for the legal proceedings:

1. Stay Calm: Understand that the legal process can take time, and reacting impulsively can make things worse. Stay calm and avoid any contact with the accuser.

2. Consult an Attorney: Contact a criminal harassment attorney from Lykins Law as soon as possible. Your attorney will help you understand the charges and build a strong defense.

3. Avoid Contact with the Victim: It is important to avoid any further contact with the alleged victim. Continued communication or attempts to resolve the issue outside of court could worsen your case.

4. Collect Evidence: Gather any evidence that may support your case. This includes phone records, emails, texts, or any witnesses who may have observed your interactions with the accuser.

5. Prepare for Court: Your attorney will help you prepare for court, ensuring you understand the process and are ready to present your defense.

Conclusion

Being accused of criminal harassment can be a life-altering experience, but with the right legal representation, it’s possible to fight the charges and protect your future. If you are facing criminal harassment charges in Michigan, Lykins Law can provide the legal expertise and guidance you need to navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system. Our experienced attorneys will work tirelessly to defend your rights and ensure the best possible outcome for your case.

Remember, if you or someone you know is accused of criminal harassment, seeking professional legal help is crucial. Don’t face this challenge alone—reach out to Lykins Law today for a consultation.