Navigating Harassment Laws in Oklahoma City
Harassment is a serious issue that affects many individuals in Oklahoma City. Understanding the laws surrounding harassment is crucial for both victims and those accused of such behavior. In this article, we will discuss what constitutes harassment, summarize key harassment laws in Oklahoma City, and emphasize the importance of seeking legal assistance from an experienced Oklahoma City criminal defense attorney if you or someone that you know if facing such charges.
What is Harassment?
Harassment encompasses a range of behaviors intended to disturb or threaten someone. It includes stalking, making threats, unwanted contact, and other actions that can cause significant distress to the victim. For instance, repeated unwanted phone calls, following someone, or sending threatening messages are all considered harassment. These actions can have a profound impact on victims, causing emotional trauma, fear, anxiety, and/or other damages.
Harassment Laws in Oklahoma City
In Oklahoma City, harassment is addressed through both civil and criminal laws. Civil harassment cases typically involve restraining orders or protection orders, which aim to prevent further contact between the harasser and the victim. Criminal harassment cases, on the other hand, can lead to more severe consequences, including jail time and criminal records. It’s important to understand these distinctions, as the approach and penalties can differ significantly.
Under Oklahoma’s criminal laws, harassment falls under several statutes depending on the type of conduct. These include:
Harassment Through Electronic Communications
In Oklahoma, it is illegal to use any telecommunication or electronic communication device to threaten, harass, or otherwise intimidate another person. 21 Oklahoma Statutes Section 1172. In addition, making lewd, obscene, and indecent proposals or comments through these means is also unlawful and may be criminally prosecuted.
A conviction for the first offense is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in county jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000, or both. A second or subsequent offense is a felony that is punishable by imprisonment for up to 3 years and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
Stalking
Stalking involves repeatedly following or harassing another person in a manner that would cause a reasonable person to feel frightened, intimidated, threatened, harassed, or molested. 21 Oklahoma Statutes Section 1173. A first offense carries a sentence of up to 1 year in county jail and/or a fine up to $1,000. A second or subsequent offense is considered a felony and is punishable by imprisonment for up to 5 years and/or a fine up to $2,500.
Threatening Acts of Violence
It is unlawful to communicate a threat to commit any crime of violence with the intent to place another person in fear of physical harm. 21 Oklahoma Statutes Section 1378. A conviction for a first offense is punishable by up to 6 months in county jail and/or a fine of up to $500. A second or subsequent offense can result in imprisonment in county jail for up to 1 year and/or a fine up to $1,000.
Seeking Legal Help from an Oklahoma City Criminal Defense Attorney
If you are facing harassment charges, it is essential to contact an experienced Oklahoma City criminal defense attorney immediately. A conviction for harassment, particularly a felony conviction in Oklahoma, can have devastating long-term personal and professional consequences. An experienced attorney can help you understand the charges against you, build a robust defense strategy, and represent you in court.
An Oklahoma City criminal defense attorney can also assist victims of harassment. For instance, by obtaining a protective order on your behalf to prevent further contact from the aggressor.
Consult with an Experienced Oklahoma City Criminal Defense Attorney
Understanding harassment laws in Oklahoma City is vital for both victims and those accused of harassment. It is crucial to recognize what constitutes harassment and the potential legal consequences. If you are facing harassment charges or are a victim of harassment in Oklahoma City, contact the Criminal Defense Law Office of Oklahoma City at (405) 588-4529 for expert legal representation.