Stalking: N.J.S.A. 2C:12-10

Bloomfield Stalking Defense Attorneys

Criminal Lawyers in Newark, New Jersey

Essex County Stalking Lawyer — Stalking Charges NJSA 2C:12-10

Since Essex County, New Jersey prosecutors do not fool around when it comes to assault and threat crimes, a conviction for stalking can result in serious prison time. Perhaps worst of all, a stalking conviction can follow you for the rest of your life if it stays on your permanent record. In addition to a criminal charge, stalking may leave you exposed to a permanent restraining order. The experienced criminal defense lawyers at our law firm are prepared to challenge the evidence in your stalking case and help you beat your stalking charges. We have successfully represented countless clients charged with stalking in Essex County, including in Belleville, Nutley, Orange, Montclair, Millburn, and Glen Ridge.

The firm’s founding partner, Travis J. Tormey, previously worked at the United State Attorney’s Office on both the gang task force and the sex crimes unit, so he will not back down from a fight in court. Additionally, the firm’s staff includes a former county and municipal prosecutor, which means that our attorneys used to prosecute stalking charges for the State of NJ. Now, we are able to anticipate how the prosecution will think in your stalking case and develop a comprehensive defense strategy to combat your stalking charges in court. Call us today at 201-654-3464 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation about your stalking case.

Stalking in New Jersey: N.J.S.A. 2C:12-10

Stalking in New Jersey is governed by N.J.S.A. 2C:12-10. You can be charged with stalking under a variety of circumstances:

Purposefully or knowingly engaging in a course of conduct that would cause a reasonable person to fear for their safety.
Purposefully or knowingly engaging in a series of actions that would cause a reasonable person to suffer emotional distress.
Stalking in violation of a court order prohibiting contact with the victim.

As set forth by the statute, a domestic violence suspect (including someone charged with stalking) is subject to a mandatory arrest if the victim exhibits signs of injury or if there is probable cause to believe that the terms of a no-contact order have been violated.

Essex County, NJ Stalking Penalties

Stalking is typically classified as a fourth degree felony. If you are convicted of fourth degree stalking, you may be sentenced to up to 18 months in New Jersey State Prison. However, a stalking charge can be elevated to a third degree offense if you commit stalking in violation of a court order, against the same victim on more than one occasion, while serving a prison sentence, or while on either parole or probation. In any of these instances, you can be sentenced to between three and five years in prison.

Although the loss of your freedom might be the most severe consequence you face, the consequences of a stalking conviction go far beyond a prison sentence. Even after serving your sentence, you will have to deal with the shame, embarrassment, and stigma of having a stalking conviction appear on your permanent record. You will also be prevented from lawfully owning a firearm in NJ.

Restraining Orders and Allegations for Stalking

In addition to criminal charges for stalking, you could also be subject to a restraining order if your charge is classified as a domestic violence offense. This will place further restrictions on your freedom. Worst of all, if you violate the restraining order, you could face new criminal charges that may result in a prison sentence if you are found guilty.

Contact East Orange Stalking Lawyers for More Information

Do not take any chances when it comes to your freedom and your reputation. If you have been accused of stalking, terroristic threats, or harassment in Essex County, New Jersey, do not wait to contact a criminal defense attorney. The experienced attorneys at our law office have an excellent track record of defending clients against stalking charges. Call 201-654-3464 today to discuss your case, or fill out the online contact form to schedule a free consultation at our firm’s Newark office.

Client Reviews

"Travis Tormey is the only lawyer I seek out to handle my legal affairs. Over the last four years, I have used Mr. Tormey’s services on numerous occasions to my great benefit. He promptly returns my messages, takes the time..."
"Travis Tormey is a superb attorney. He is skilled and knowledgeable. He handled my case with respect, kindness and quiet assurance. I would trust him with all future legal needs. He has many contacts in the legal profession..."
"Mr. Tormey is a consummate professional. Our case was sensitive and complicated and unusually lengthy for a juvenile case. For 8 months Mr. Tormey faithfully worked our case and never failed to show for court once. Punctual, disciplined..."
"Travis Tormey is an outstanding attorney. He helped me tremendously, more so than I ever could have imagined. He handled all aspects of my case with compassion, respect, and immense competence. He is a skilled and knowledge..."
"I was extremely nervous and anticipating the worst situation possible for my cases. Travis was a very reliable lawyer and everyone at his firm was extremely helpful. Travis went above and beyond inside and outside of the court room for me! ..."