Domestic offenses are not always about physical abuse. If you have been charged with stalking in Arizona, you may be facing severe penalties. Contact a skilled Phoenix stalking attorney at AZ Defenders as soon as possible and schedule a consultation with one of our lawyers to discuss your legal options.
Stalking is a form of domestic violence. Each offense is addressed individually under Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS). It may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the facts in the case.
Stalking is addressed in ARS Section 13-2923. It is defined as intentionally or knowingly engaging in a course of conduct directed toward another that causes fear of personal safety or death for the victim and his or her immediate family members. The statute defines “course of conduct” in detail. Generally, it is a repetitive pattern of unwanted, threatening or harassing behavior toward another person. Threats may be express or implied, verbal, written, or in any other form. If you have any questions about your stalking charges, speak with a qualified Phoenix stalking attorney experienced in these types of cases.
First-offense stalking may be charged as a class five felony when it causes fear of safety, or a class three felony when it causes fear of death. Penalties for class five felony stalking may include probation, jail time, or a prison sentence if there are any prior felony convictions. Class three felony stalking is punishable by probation and up to one year in jail, or a prison term of two to eight and three-quarter years, or longer with prior felony convictions.
If you are facing harassment or stalking charges, you need an experienced Phoenix stalking attorney by your side. Contact AZ Defenders today for the skilled and dedicated representation you need.