Fort Worth Stalking Defense Attorney

Aggressive Lawyer Defending Against Stalking Charges in Fort Worth, TX

In Texas, an accusation of stalking is not just harmful to your reputation—it can also lead to criminal charges. This criminal charge is punishable as a felony under state law, necessitating a strong defense from the start. To protect your rights, reach out to a Fort Worth, TX stalking defense lawyer today.

At The Meza Law Firm, PLLC, we have years of experience representing people charged with assault, domestic violence, and other crimes of a sensitive nature. We can help you strategize against a charge of stalking, rigorously testing the prosecution's evidence and looking for ways to get the offense reduced or dismissed outright. Do not hesitate to reach out to Attorney Edwardo Meza if you have questions.

An Overview of Stalking Charges in Texas

Stalking charges in Texas involve a pattern of behavior directed at a specific person that causes that person to feel threatened, harassed, or afraid. A single phone call or a chance encounter is not enough to support a stalking charge.

The state must show that the accused person purposely engaged in behavior that the other person would regard as threatening or harassing. The threat can involve the alleged victim, a family or household member, someone they are dating, or their property.

Stalking can take many forms. Repeated text messages, social media contact, following someone, showing up at their home or workplace, or tracking their location can all form the basis of a charge. Stalking is a third-degree felony in Texas, punishable by two to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. A prior stalking conviction raises the charge to a second-degree felony. A judge may also issue a protective order that limits where you can go and who you can contact.

Stalking vs. Harassment in Texas

Stalking and harassment are related offenses in Texas, but they differ in seriousness and in what the state must prove. Harassment can be based on a single act, such as sending an obscene message, making a threatening phone call, or repeatedly contacting someone with the intent to annoy, alarm, or embarrass them. Harassment is usually a Class B misdemeanor, carrying up to 180 days in county jail and a potential fine up to $2,000. Some harassment cases can be raised to a Class A misdemeanor, such as when the person has a prior harassment conviction.

Stalking requires a pattern of conduct over time. In many cases, the same behavior that could support a harassment charge becomes stalking when it is repeated and directed at one person as part of a single course of conduct. The difference in penalties is significant. A harassment conviction is a misdemeanor, while stalking is a felony that can lead to years in prison.

What Defenses Can You Raise in a Fort Worth Stalking Case?

Defending against stalking allegations requires a close review of the communications, timeline, and relationship between the parties. Many stalking cases arise during breakups, divorces, or custody disputes, when emotions run high and accusations may be exaggerated or outright fabricated. Possible defenses can include:

• Lack of evidence showing that the alleged stalking actually occurred
• No pattern of conduct, since the alleged acts were isolated or unrelated
• A legitimate purpose for the contact, such as co-parenting, business, or a shared legal matter
• Fear or distress that would not be reasonable under the circumstances
• False accusations made to gain an advantage in a divorce or custody case
• Mistaken identity, especially with anonymous accounts or messages
• Constitutionally protected speech that does not amount to a threat

Our attorney can gather phone records, social media history, and witness statements to present a complete picture of what happened.

Meet With a Fort Worth, Texas Stalking Defense Lawyer

A stalking accusation can affect your freedom and your relationships. At The Meza Law Firm, PLLC, we take a careful approach to every case and work to protect your rights. Call 817-732-6392 or contact our Fort Worth, TX stalking defense attorney to set up a free consultation.