Facing Harassment or Stalking Charges?
Harassment and stalking allegations can severely impact your reputation, freedom, and future. At Snohomish Defense, we provide strategic representation for those facing these serious accusations in Washington State.
Washington Harassment and Stalking Laws
Washington law establishes several related offenses with escalating penalties:
- Harassment (RCW 9A.46.020): Threats to cause bodily injury, property damage, or other actions intended to substantially harm another person
- Cyberstalking (RCW 9.61.260): Electronic communications made with intent to harass, intimidate, torment, or embarrass
- Stalking (RCW 9A.46.110): Intentionally and repeatedly following, monitoring, or harassing another person, causing reasonable fear
- Violation of Protection Orders: Disregarding court-ordered no-contact or protection orders
Potential Penalties
Consequences for these charges vary based on severity and prior history:
- Misdemeanor Harassment: Up to 90 days in jail and $1,000 in fines
- Gross Misdemeanor Harassment: Up to 364 days in jail and $5,000 in fines
- Felony Harassment: Up to 5 years imprisonment and $10,000 in fines
- Stalking (First Offense): Gross misdemeanor penalties
- Stalking (Second Offense): Class B felony with up to 10 years imprisonment
- Additional Consequences: Protection orders, firearms restrictions, professional licensing issues, and immigration complications
Defense Strategies for Harassment and Stalking Cases
Our attorneys employ effective defense approaches including:
- Constitutional Protections: Asserting First Amendment free speech rights in appropriate cases
- Evidence Analysis: Scrutinizing electronic communications, witness statements, and alleged patterns of behavior
- Intent Challenges: Demonstrating lack of intent to harass or cause reasonable fear
- Mistaken Identity: Establishing uncertainty about who sent communications or performed alleged actions
- Reasonable Fear Standard: Challenging whether a reasonable person would feel threatened
- Alternative Explanations: Presenting legitimate reasons for communications or proximity
Protection Orders and No-Contact Orders
Harassment and stalking cases often involve:
- Temporary or permanent protection orders
- Criminal no-contact orders
- Anti-harassment orders
- Domestic violence protection orders
We assist clients in responding to these orders, contesting improper restrictions, and navigating compliance requirements.
Special Considerations in Modern Cases
Modern harassment and stalking cases frequently involve:
- Social media communications and direct messaging
- Electronic tracking and monitoring
- Digital evidence requiring forensic analysis
- Complex jurisdictional issues with online behavior
- Evolving legal standards for electronic communications
Our team stays current with technological developments and emerging legal standards to provide informed defense strategies.
Why Choose Snohomish Defense for Harassment and Stalking Charges
Our defense team brings:
- Detailed Knowledge of Washington’s harassment and stalking statutes
- Digital Evidence Expertise for cases involving electronic communications
- Experience with both criminal proceedings and protection order hearings
- Strategic Approach tailored to the specific circumstances of your case
Contact Our Washington Harassment and Stalking Defense Attorneys
Don’t face these serious allegations without experienced representation. Contact Snohomish Defense today for a confidential consultation to discuss your case and explore your defense options.