Repeatedly contacting someone or following them in public can lead to charges of harassment in Castle Rock, Parker, and Highlands Ranch. If these actions are meant to bother, annoy, or alarm another person, police involvement may result.
Many other acts are considered harassment in Colorado as well. Making obscene gestures towards someone in public or taunting them as to provoke a response can be legally problematic. Furthermore, in the digital age, harassment can happen electronically via direct message, text, or email. If you’re facing accusations of these behaviors in Douglas County, contact an experienced harassment lawyer right away to discuss your situation.
Douglas County Harassment Law
Douglas County’s harassment law makes many behaviors meant to harass, annoy, or alarm someone unlawful. CRS 18-9-111 addresses the elements of harassment throughout the state of Colorado. You commit criminal harassment in Douglas, Arapahoe, or Elbert County if you:
- intending to harass, annoy, or alarm another person,
- strike, shove, kick, or subject them to physical contact,
- publicly make obscene gestures or remarks towards them or follow them in public,
- call them repeatedly without legitimate purpose,
- try to communicate repeatedly with them at unreasonable hours,
- taunt them trying to provoke an unlawful response,
- or make obscene or threatening statements over the phone or online
It’s easy to see how this broad of an offense can sneak up on someone who may feel they haven’t done anything that warrants a criminal charge. Additionally, defendants may not initiate certain communication but might respond in a way that leads to harassment allegations.
How Bad is a Harassment Charge in Colorado?
Each harassment case is different. The unique facts of each situation often determine the penalties. As a class 2 misdemeanor, a harassment conviction can result in:
- probation or a county jail sentence of up to 4 months,
- fines of $50 – $750,
- a protection order
However, harassment involving discrimination is more serious. These acts done because of a person’s race, color, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or physical / mental disability are a class 1 misdemeanor. Up to 12 months in county jail, as well as fine range of $500 – $5,000 apply in these cases.
Finding the Best Harassment Lawyer in Douglas County
Allegations of harassment require strategic representation. We have decades of combined experience successfully fighting harassment charges. We’re prepared for your unique case.
Perhaps there was no intent to annoy or alarm the person, you didn’t touch or threaten anyone, or you’re being falsely accused. Nevertheless, contact our office for a free, confidential consultation. Douglas County’s best harassment lawyer will carefully analyze your case, as well as suggest next steps in your defense. Our affordable fees and flexible payment plans make hiring a proven defense attorney possible in uncertain times.
Don’t talk to the police about harassment charges – talk to us. 303-265-1950
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio
