Aggravated harassment is a serious crime and carries far more severe punishments than a conviction of simple harassment. A conviction carries harsh penalties, along with a criminal record of being a convicted felon. It can cost you your job, your life, and your freedom. Different types of harassment exist. If you sense that someone is putting you at risk or making you feel uneasy. Take action. We are familiar with how this feels because many individuals who come to our office seeking legal assistance have demonstrated it. We can help you too.
If you or your loved one has been accused of aggravated harassment, you must seek legal advice from a credible Phoenix criminal defense attorney at Snader Law Group without delay. Our legal team has an in-depth understanding of Arizona law and the criminal justice system. Contact us today and we will help you understand the nature of your charges and build the most effective defense for your case.
Why Do I Need an Aggravated Harassment Attorney in Arizona?
Dealing with aggravated harassment charges puts most individuals into an extreme state of stress and worry. The uncertainty of the criminal case can weigh heavily on the shoulders of the defendant. The situation is dire and you must get legal representation from a skilled Phoenix aggravated harassment lawyer as soon as possible.
At Snader Law Group, we are prepared to fight for your rights and seek out legal options to help you avoid conviction on the criminal charge. Our Arizona board-certified criminal attorney Howard Snader can provide the aggressive and proactive defense you need to protect your rights today. Contact our criminal defense law firm now and schedule an initial consultation.
What is Aggravated Harassment?
Harassment is a serious criminal charge filed against an individual who is accused of doing acts with the purpose of alarming, annoying, or harassing another person. Depending on the circumstances of the case, there are specific actions that can transform a charge from simple harassment to aggravated harassment. As a result, a person’s potential penalty increases with the severity of the crime. If you are facing aggravated harassment charges, you need a reliable Phoenix aggravated harassment lawyer to assist you in getting the best possible result in your case.
Aggravated harassment consists of harassment, with one of two additional elements:
- The harassment violated an order of protection or a court-ordered injunction (also known as a restraining order) against harassment in favor of the victim of harassment and the order or injunction has been served and is still valid.
- The defendant has one or more prior domestic violence convictions, and at least one involved the same person allegedly harassed in the current case. The victim of any previous crime shall be the same as in the present crime. Domestic violence cases involve persons related to the defendant, such as a married or unmarried couple who live in the same household or by blood as a family member.
The term aggravated harassment can encompass several crimes. Examples of aggravated harassment include sending harassing communication, stalking, interfering with delivering public services to another, making false police reports, and more after an order or injunction is already in place.
What are the Penalties of Aggravated Harassment in Arizona?
When the term aggravated is attached to either an assault or harassment charge, the penalties become more serious. Harassment can be punishable by prison time, probation, and fines, depending on the person’s criminal history and the circumstances of the criminal case. Most simple harassment charges are considered a misdemeanor. On the other hand, aggravated harassment is always a felony. A knowledgeable Phoenix criminal defense lawyer can help avoid harsh penalties and minimize the consequences of your arrest.
Class 6 Felony
Aggravated harassment that violates an order or injunction is a class 6 felony. A class 6 felony is punishable by 4 months to 2 years in prison, a fine of up to $150,000, and up to 3 years of probation.
Class 5 Felony
- A second violation of an order is a class 5 felony. A class 5 felony is punishable by 6 months to 2.5 years in prison, up to 3 years of probation, and a maximum fine of $150,000.
- Aggravated harassment with a prior domestic violence conviction is a class 5 felony. If the prior conviction involved the same victim as in the current case, it is a class 2 felony.
What are the Defenses of Aggravated Harassment in Arizona?
Although you’ve been charged with aggravated harassment, several potential defenses exist. To prove an aggravated harassment case, the prosecutor must present sufficient evidence. There must be evidence of the conduct complained of and the acts intended to harass the alleged victim. Defendants have the right to challenge criminal charges with a legal defense. A competent Phoenix aggravated harassment lawyer can help you gather sufficient evidence, build a strong defense, and obtain the best possible outcome in your case.
The alleged victim was not truly annoyed or alarmed
An individual can only be found guilty of aggravated harassment if his or her actions or conduct seriously annoy, alarm, or harass the alleged victim. Therefore, a defendant must prove that his or her actions did not bother the alleged victim.
The alleged victim’s fear or annoyance was not reasonable
To be convicted of aggravated harassment, the defendant’s conduct must cause a reasonable person to be seriously annoyed, harassed, or alarmed. Depending on the circumstances of the situation, defendants can always use the defense that their conduct was not reasonably alarming or annoying.
False accusations
Unfortunately, people get falsely accused of aggravated harassment. Jealousy and vengeance can be some of the common reasons behind false accusations. A defendant may use this defense by proving that the alleged victim has made a false report to the law enforcement officers or that the defendant was unjustly blamed.
Call Our Experienced Phoenix Aggravated Harassment Attorneys Now!
If you are facing harassment or aggravated harassment charges, the consequences could be significant. Whether it is a felony or a misdemeanor, a conviction for harassment can have long-lasting effects on your life. You could be looking at imprisonment and hefty fines. You may even face the social stigma of being a convicted felon. Your career, relationships, and future are at stake.
In a case of aggravated harassment, don’t attempt to defend yourself alone. Our seasoned Phoenix aggravated harassment lawyers at Snader Law Group will provide you with the best legal defense and representation you deserve, guarding you against the pressure to accept a plea bargain on unfair terms. Howard A. Snader is a former prosecutor and board-certified criminal law specialist with more than 30 years of experience defending good people accused of serious misdemeanors and felonies in Arizona.