Virginia Beach, VA Stalking and Harassment Defense Attorney

Trusted Stalking and Harassment Defense Lawyer for Clients in Virginia Beach

In Virginia, the crime of stalking refers to more than just making someone uncomfortable. Rather, it requires a specific course of conduct that prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt. For legal help dealing with these charges, consider working with a Virginia Beach stalking and harassment defense attorney who can represent you in court.

At Castellano Law Firm PLLC, we represent clients with passion and heart, with a practice built on service to clients. When you work with our firm, we will explore all of your options to challenge a stalking charge, whether through negotiations with the prosecution or an aggressive defense in trial.

What Counts as Stalking in Virginia?

Virginia defines stalking as engaging in conduct directed at another person on more than one occasion that places that person in reasonable fear of death, criminal sexual assault, or bodily injury. The law does not require that the accused made a direct threat. Repeated conduct that causes a person to genuinely fear for their safety can be enough to support a charge, even if each individual act seemed minor on its own.

A first stalking conviction is a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. A second conviction within five years is a Class 6 felony, which can result in one to five years in prison. A stalking conviction can also result in a protective order being issued, which brings its own set of restrictions and potential criminal exposure if the order is later violated.

It is worth noting that stalking charges can arise from situations involving former romantic partners, neighbors, coworkers, or acquaintances. The relationship between the parties and the full context of the conduct are both relevant to how the charge is evaluated and what defenses may apply.

How to Respond to a Stalking Charge in Virginia Beach

A stalking charge is a criminal matter that deserves immediate attention. Since the offense is defined by a pattern of conduct rather than a single act, the prosecution will typically attempt to establish a timeline of behavior and connect it to the fear experienced by the alleged victim. Our defense lawyer can review that timeline in detail to see if there is truly a pattern of intentional acts.

In some cases, conduct that one party characterizes as threatening was part of an ongoing mutual exchange that the record does not fully reflect. Prior interactions, the nature of any disputes between the parties, and whether a protective order was already in place at the time of the alleged conduct can all affect how the case develops.

What Is Harassment by Computer?

Virginia law separately addresses conduct carried out through electronic means. Harassment by computer involves using a computer or other electronic device to communicate obscene, vulgar, profane, or threatening language to another person with the intent to coerce, intimidate, or harass.

A first harassment by computer conviction is a Class 1 misdemeanor. These cases are often built on text messages, social media activity, emails, and other digital communications, and the full context of those exchanges is relevant to any defense.

Like with stalking, intent is important in these cases. A misinterpreted message could be central to your defense. At Castellano Law Firm PLLC, we will review the communications to see if it rises to the level of harassment.

Contact a Virginia Beach Stalking and Harassment Defense Lawyer Today

A stalking or harassment charge can move quickly once it is filed, which is why it is important to have a lawyer on your side. Call 757-724-0073 or contact our Virginia Beach, VA stalking and harassment defense attorney today to schedule a free consultation with Castellano Law Firm PLLC.