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(720) 740-3466 (720) 740-3466 Stalking is a type of harassment defined by a repeated pattern of behavior that distresses another person. This might involve following them in public, repeatedly making contact against their will, or making threats. Police take these allegations seriously, making it crucial for you to consult a dedicated domestic violence defense attorney as soon as possible.
Stalking cases are complex and require a thorough defense strategy. To give yourself the best chance of success at trial, let a Denver stalking lawyer guide your defense.
Stalking is a serious offense, even if you are facing your first criminal arrest. These charges are always treated as felonies, although the penalties may be upgraded based on your criminal history.
Stalking is a class 5 felony that could lead to a prison term between one and three years for first-time offenders. The state also requires a mandatory two-year parole upon release. However, the court has some leeway to extend this sentence if it finds that you represent an extraordinary risk of crime.
Subsequent offenses carry harsh punishment. A second offense could lead to between two and six years in prison, with three years of mandatory parole to follow.
In addition to jail time and fines, this criminal conviction could follow you for the rest of your life. Some of the lasting consequences may include difficulty maintaining employment and losing child custody rights. Thankfully, these harsh outcomes are only possible after a conviction. A stalking lawyer in Denver could help defend you against these charges, potentially preventing any marks on your criminal record.
As serious as these charges are, it is important to remember that a conviction is never certain. The right strategy from a Denver stalking attorney could result in the dismissal of criminal charges or a victory at trial. Some common defense strategies include the following key points:
These are only a few of the options available. Determining the right approach for your case starts with a careful review of the facts.
Vonnie’s Law is a unique criminal statute that applies to stalking cases in Colorado. Named after 2010 murder victim Vonnie Flores, this statute is designed to increase the effectiveness of protection orders in stalking cases. However, the law could be a challenge for anyone facing these charges—whether they are guilty or not.
Under Vonnie’s Law, if you are arrested on stalking charges, you cannot be immediately released on bail. Instead, you must remain in police custody until you appear before a judge. At this hearing, the judge will explain how the protection order works and require you to sign a document acknowledging the order’s terms. An attorney who handles stalking cases in Denver could help you understand this law and its consequences.
Any allegation of stalking is serious, even those that stem from an honest misunderstanding. If you do not aggressively defend yourself in this situation, you could be convicted and sent to prison. However, you are entitled to a vigorous defense. Before you consider a plea bargain, contact a Denver stalking lawyer to discuss your legal options.