In Washington, Criminal Harassment charges are extremely serious matters, especially if they’re charged as domestic violence crimes. Sometimes, Stalking charges are filed in addition to Harassment. A conviction can result in consequences ranging from jail and fines to probation, no contact orders, loss of gun rights, and more.
Attorney Alexander Ransom has vast experience defending clients against Harassment charges. Investigations often reveal that many Harassment charges are unwarranted and based on rather flimsy allegations. Alexander has obtained “Not Guilty” verdicts in serious Felony Harassment cases and dismissed many others. Please review Alexander’s Verdicts & Results for more information.
In Washington, there are three types of Harassment charges:
The basic form of harassment involves when someone unlawfully threatens to cause bodily injury, damage property, or physically restrain the person. This threat can be either done by way of words or intentional conduct. This crime can be charged as either a gross misdemeanor or a Class C felony.
Malicious Harassment is similar to standard harassment except the underlying reason for the criminal conduct is because of the victim’s perceived race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, or a mental, physical, or sensory handicap.
In addition to the criminal penalty provided, the victim may bring a civil cause of action for Malicious Harassment against the harasser. A person may be liable to the victim for actual damages, punitive damages of up to ten thousand dollars, and reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs incurred in bringing the action. Malicious Harassment is Class C Felony punishable up to 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Telephone harassment includes calling the victim in order to harass, intimidate, torment, or embarrass the individual through telephone. Examples could include using profane or lewd language or calling at all hours of the night with the above described intent. Telephone Harassment is typically charged as a gross misdemeanor but occasionally is charged as a Class C Felony depending on the circumstances.
If you or someone you care about is charged with a Harassment crime in Skagit County or Whatcom County, call attorney Alexander Ransom today for a free, no-pressure case evaluation. Alexander has a reputation in the legal community as an aggressive, effective and experienced criminal defense attorney. He is here to assist you through these difficult times.
