Wilton Second-Degree Harassment Lawyer

Working with a top criminal defense lawyer can help you protect your rights and minimize the potential negative consequences of a charge. A Wilton second-degree harassment lawyer can review your situation and explain your options for defense.

What Is the Definition of Harassment in the Second Degree?

Connecticut General Statutes (C.G.S.) §53a-183 explains three different actions that can constitute harassment in the second degree.

Using “indecent” or “obscene” language on the phone with another person can be considered second-degree harassment. Making a phone call “in a manner likely to cause annoyance or alarm” can also be treated as second-degree harassment even if no words are spoken. In other words, calling and hanging up or calling and breathing into the receiver can be prosecuted as harassment.

Finally, communicating by mail, computer network, fax, or other writing in a way that could cause annoyance or alarm can also constitute harassment. However, a second-degree harassment lawyer in Wilton may be able to prove that calls or written communications were not likely to annoy or alarm a reasonable person.

What If I Didn’t Mean to Alarm Someone?

In order for the above behaviors to violate C.G.S. 53a-183, the person taking action must be proven to have a certain state of mind unless they are using obscene or indecent language. The calls or communication must be made “with the intent to harass, annoy, or alarm” another.

A Wilton second-degree harassment attorney can work to seek evidence to refute any showing of intent to harass. It is wise to act quickly to locate and interview witnesses, preserve recordings, or otherwise collect valuable evidence while it is most readily available.

What Are the Penalties for Second-Degree Harassment?

The state classifies harassment in the second degree as a Class C misdemeanor. If you are convicted, you can be imprisoned for up to three months. In addition, the court could impose a fine of up to $500.

For many people in Wilton, however, the incidental consequences associated with a criminal conviction cause more long-term problems than any official criminal penalties. A conviction creates a criminal record visible to anyone who conducts a background search. This record can interfere with your job opportunities, housing, lending, and even personal relationships far into the future. Fortunately, a second-degree harassment lawyer can work to keep the record clear.

Contact a Wilton Second-Degree Harassment Lawyer

If you are facing charges of harassment in the second degree, it is a good idea to take a serious approach to your defense. A Wilton second-degree harassment lawyer can work to find the best available evidence to refute allegations of harassment. An attorney can also fight to protect your rights and help achieve a positive outcome from the situation. To learn more about the advantages a legal advocate could provide in your case, call Mark Sherman Law today for a consultation.