Los Angeles Stalking Defense Attorneys | Criminal Lawyers In LA Since 1987
Stalking is defined under California Penal Code 649.6 as the willful, malicious and repeated harassment of another person while making a credible threat with the intent to place that person in reasonable fear for his/her safety, or the safety of his/her immediate family. In order to secure a conviction against you for stalking, a prosecutor must prove the following 3 elements of the alleged crime:
- You maliciously and repeatedly harassed another person
- You made a credible threat
- You made the threat with the intent to place another person in reasonable fear for his/her own safety, and/or the safety of his/her immediate family
Our prior experience as senior LA County prosecutors has provided us with a unique insight into both sides of the legal issue. Over the past 2 decades as the premiere criminal defense law firm in Southern California, we have successfully defended many clients against allegations of stalking and harassment by aggressively attacking each of the above-mentioned elements of PC 646.9.
Is Stalking A Felony Or Misdemeanor?
In California, the crime of stalking is considered a “wobbler” offense, which means the offense can be prosecuted as either felony or misdemeanor, with the ultimate charge level determined by whether aggravating circumstances are present in your case. For example, if you violate a temporary restraining order or “TRO” by stalking another person, you would be charged with a felony. The following are the potential consequences and penalties you face if convicted of PC 646.9:
- Formal/supervised probation (felony) or Informal/unsupervised probation (misdemeanor)
- Up to 1 year in County Jail (misdemeanor) or up to 4 years in California State Prison (felony)
- Court ordered anger management or psychological counseling
- Fine up to $1,000
- Community labor or service
- Restraining order
- Felony or misdemeanor criminal record
Why You Should Contact Us To Review Your Case?
Whether you have been recently arrested or received notice that you have been targeted as a suspect in a stalking investigation, it is imperative that you seek out qualified and competent legal representation. We offer free confidential consultations without placing any immediate pressure on you to retain our services. The emphasis will be placed on reviewing every detail of your case so that we may provide you with a thorough evaluation of its potential strengths and weaknesses, as well as each of your potential case outcomes. Most importantly, clients of our firm will be represented by either Paul Takakjian or Stephen Sitkoff, not an inexperienced associate or contract lawyer. Please call us now at (888) 579-4844 or (310) 312-8055.