In Chicago Illinois, stalking can be defined by, a series of actions that are placed on a person in fear for their safety. Stalkers tend to start with repetitious behavior, annoying behavior toward a person by means of the Internet, personal contact, telephone, cell phone, email, fax, in person, car following or other methods of contact. When this unwanted behavior persists and continues on without desire, it is deemed stalking and punishable by Chicago IL and Federal Laws.
A stalking arrest in Chicago Illinois can be a very severe matter and the Chicago stalking criminal defense lawyers affiliated with Wise Laws, know what needs to be done to defend this stalking charge. Our team of Chicago Illinois stalking lawyers is knowledgeable in stalking cases. We will review the facts of your case and devise a plan for providing the best possible defense to your stalking indictment. If you have been arrested or indicted for stalking in Chicago IL, a lawyer affiliated with our office is accessible immediately to discuss your stalking case and answer your questions. Please do not hesitate to take advantage of this opportunity, as an initial consultation with a lawyer is free of charge.
Chicago IL Stalking Behavior
- Watch, follow, threaten, harass, loiter, vandalize
- Assault, including sexual, emotional, and physical
- Repeatedly make unwanted cell phone and/or telephone calls
- Send repeated mail, gifts, and/or packages
- Cyber stalk with Internet usage
- Send repeated, unwanted email messages
LAWS AGAINST STALKING IN Chicago
A person is guilty of Chicago stalking when they, "willfully and maliciously and repeatedly follow or harass an additional person and make credible threats with the intent to place that person in reasonable fear for his or her safety or that of an immediate family member". Stalking can be charged as either a Chicago felony or Chicago misdemeanor resulting in severe penalties.
Explanation of the Chicago Illinois Stalking Law
In order for an individual to be guilty of stalking, his conduct must be such that a reasonable person in the "victims" shoes would be imminently threatened. The prior relationship and actions of the accused is relevant in this regard, such as, for example, whether any prior threats were made and acted upon. An exception is carved out under the law, however, for group picketing. The Chicago Illinois lawyers at our firm are experienced in handling criminal cases of this nature and know how to best present the facts so that a client is provided maximum protection.
STALKING VICTIMS Chicago IL
If in fact you are the Chicago Illinois victim of a stalker, please contact your local law enforcement agency and file a police report. It is likely that Chicago criminal charges would be submitted and filed if there is enough evidence. Alternatively, you may wish to file a restraining order against your stalker to hinder further stalking.
If you are convicted of Chicago Illinois stalking harassment, you face up to two and one half years imprisonment in a house of correction or a fine of up to $1,000, or both.
If you have been charged with this Chicago Illinois stalking offense, call Wise Laws at 800-270-8184 or CONTACT FORM