Many people believe that stalking and harassment are essentially the same crime. The truth, however, is that Arizona sees stalking as a far more serious act and charges it as a felony. Being convicted can mean prison time and having to abide by a long-term order of protection. If you are charged with stalking then you need to take the charges seriously. Bretton Barber is a Phoenix criminal defense attorney defending the rights of the accused. Call our lawyer today to schedule a consultation.
Arizona defense attorney representing those facing felony stalking charges
Stalking charges in Arizona are similar to harassment but include the added element of causing the victim to fear for their safety or the safety of their families. Simple annoyance is not enough to elevate a harassment charge to stalking. Stalking charges, as with other felony cases, begin either by the prosecution seeking an Indictment before the Grand Jury or by the filing of a Criminal Complaint in Superior Court. Once the defendant is charged there will be an arraignment. Once charged with stalking the defendant will likely be ordered to avoid all contact with the victim while the case proceeds and violating the order will result in additional charges. Hiring an attorney, who is familiar with the process, is important for your future.
Bretton strongly believe that all defendants are entitled to their day in Court. He will immediately acquire all evidence the state plans to use in the case. This will include police reports, witness statements, and communication records. Quite often, in such matters it turns out that the “victim” is regularly contacting the defendant. If such is the case then it can be shown that the accuser was not afraid for their safety; it is counter-intuitive for one who is “afraid” to regularly initiate contact with the one they are afraid of. Our office will work to ensure that the Jury is provided with a complete picture of the facts so that one does not go to jail due to the false claims of another. In addition to Phoenix we represent defendants in other Maricopa County cities such as Mesa, Glendale, Scottsdale, Chandler, and Gilbert. We also assist Pima County residents in Tucson.
Phoenix attorney defending against false harassment claims
As with domestic violence charges, false claims of harassment are often made by an ex who wishes to gain an advantage in divorce or child custody proceedings as well as by former lovers who wish to “get even.” Our attorney understands that these situations, unfortunately, happen and that they can cause great anxiety for the accused. Bretton recognizes the stress one can be under and that is one of the reasons why he stays in regular communication with his clients. He regularly provides his personal cell phone number and promptly responds to his messages. We are ready to assist you.
