Boston Office

Salem Office

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Boston Office

   55 Union Street, Suite 400 Boston, MA 02108
   617-295-7500

Salem Office

   15 Church St, Suite 105 Salem, MA 01970

   978-607-0034

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Accused of Stalking and Criminal Harassment? Contact us NOW!

What is Stalking and Criminal Harassment?

In Massachusetts, stalking (G.L. c. 265, § 43) involves a pattern of behavior intended to cause fear or emotional distress, such as repeated unwanted contact or threats. Criminal harassment (G.L. c. 265, § 43A) similarly entails a series of willful and malicious acts directed at an individual, causing substantial emotional distress. Both offenses can occur through various means, including in-person interactions, phone calls, or electronic communications.

What Are The Elements of Stalking and Criminal Harassment?

Stalking (G.L. c. 265, § 43):

  • Engaging in a pattern of conduct or series of acts directed at a specific person.
  • The conduct must cause that person to fear for their safety or suffer substantial emotional distress.
  • The perpetrator must have intended to cause such fear or distress.

Criminal Harassment (G.L. c. 265, § 43A):

  • Committing at least three separate acts directed at a person.
  • Each act must be willful and malicious.
  • The acts must cause the victim to be seriously alarmed or to suffer substantial emotional distress.

What Are The Penalties Associated With This Crime?

Stalking (G.L. c. 265, § 43):

  • Punishable by up to 5 years in state prison or up to 2.5 years in a house of correction.
  • Fines up to $1,000 may also be imposed.

 

Criminal Harassment (G.L. c. 265, § 43A):

  • Punishable by up to 2.5 years in a house of correction.
  • Fines up to $25,000 may be imposed.

Why Choose Us As Your Defense Attorney?

With years of specialized experience, The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson has established itself as the go-to criminal defense attorneys in Massachusetts.

  1. Relentless Advocacy: With experience, fidelity, and a focus on results, we give criminal defense that prioritizes your rights, so you feel supported and confident every step of the way.
  2. Proven Track Record: With a strong focus on criminal defense, we not only bring moments of experience but also constantly achieve successful outcomes, making us a trusted choice for our clients.
  3. Affordable and Accessible: Our criminal defense firm combines quality representation with straightforward pricing, so you can get expert legal help without the heavy cost.
  4. Understandable Explanations: We give clear, straightforward criminal defense guidance so you can confidently navigate your legal situation and understand each step along the way.

Experienced Criminal Lawyers Ready to Fight for You

Boston Office
55 Union Street, Suite 400 Boston, MA 02108
617-295-7500

Salem Office
15 Church St, Suite 105 Salem, MA 01970
978-607-0034

Office Hours
Mondays – Fridays
24/7 Support

Saturdays – Sundays
10:00am – 2:00pm

Our Legal Process and How We Work

1.
Initial Consultation

We give our clients a comprehensive overview of their legal issues, gathering essential information to understand their unique situation.

2.
Strategic Plan Development

After the initial discussion, we create a tailored strategic plan outlining how we aim to achieve the customer’s objectives.

3.
Representation and Advocacy

Once the agreement is in place, we begin representing you, furnishing expert legal guidance and devoted advocacy throughout your case.

1.
Initial Consultation

We give our clients a comprehensive overview of their legal issues, gathering essential information to understand their unique situation.

2.
Strategic Plan Development

After the initial discussion, we create a tailored strategic plan outlining how we aim to achieve the customer’s objectives.

3.
Representation and Advocacy

Once the agreement is in place, we begin representing you, furnishing expert legal guidance and devoted advocacy throughout your case.

Act Now Before It's Too Late

If you’re facing allegations of stalking or criminal harassment, immediate action is crucial. Serious repercussions, such as long jail terms and hefty fines, may result from these accusations. Don’t wait until it’s too late—contact a qualified criminal defense attorney today to protect your rights and future.

FAQs

A pattern involves multiple acts over time, such as repeated phone calls, emails, or following someone, which causes the victim to fear for their safety.

Yes, sending threatening or unwanted messages via email, text, or social media can constitute criminal harassment.

Comply immediately with all terms of the order and consult an attorney to understand your rights and options.

Yes, violating the terms of such an order can result in criminal penalties, including imprisonment.

Possible defenses include lack of intent, consent from the alleged victim, or that the conduct did not cause substantial emotional distress.

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Protect Yourself from Severe Consequences - Call Now!

Contact Us Now!

Experienced Criminal Lawyers Ready to Fight for You

Boston Office
55 Union Street, Suite 400 Boston, MA 02108
617-295-7500

Salem Office
15 Church St, Suite 105 Salem, MA 01970
978-607-0034

Office Hours
Mondays – Fridays
24/7 Support

Saturdays – Sundays
10:00am – 2:00pm

Our Latest Victory Cases You Need to KNOW!

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The Right Strategy to Win Your Criminal Case

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Disclaimer: Although I am an attorney, I am not your attorney.  Please do not rely on anything on our website as legal advice because any specific advice would depend on your situation.  Any results posted on this page are not guarantees of outcomes in your case.

Our Locations

Boston Office

(Cheap parking! We validate parking at 136 Blackstone St, Boston, MA 02109 (Haymarket, Parcel 7 parking garage), $3 for three hours.)

Salem Office

Quick Links

Practice Areas

Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson Header Blue Logo

The Right Strategy to Win Your Criminal Case

Facebook Instagram Linkedin Tiktok Youtube

Disclaimer: Although I am an attorney, I am not your attorney.  Please do not rely on anything on our website as legal advice because any specific advice would depend on your situation.  Any results posted on this page are not guarantees of outcomes in your case.

Our Locations

Boston Office

(Cheap parking! We validate parking at 136 Blackstone St, Boston, MA 02108 (Haymarket, Parcel 7 parking garage), $3 for three hours.)

Salem Office

Quick Links

Practice Areas

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