Being convicted of a crime in Texas can leave a person feeling like the entire criminal justice system is against them. Stalking is a crime that is taken especially seriously as this crime may often be in conjunction with or lead to a more serious crime like assault if the perpetrator is not convicted. Stalking is considered to be a serious offense, and if you have been charged with this crime, you may be facing severe penalties if you are convicted. That is why it is crucial you retain the help of a trusted San Antonio stalking defense lawyer as soon as possible to help you build a strong defense case.
Sophia Martinez Law is a Texas law firm with experience helping clients protect their rights and interests after they have been accused of serious crimes like stalking. It is crucial that you understand your best legal options to be successful in your defense case. We believe that everyone deserves a fair trial. San Antonio stalking defense attorney Sophia C. Martinez is a former Assistant District Attorney with over 25 years of experience. If you have been accused of stalking in San Antonio, Texas, it is our goal to ensure your rights and interests are protected as we build your criminal defense case.
What Is Considered Stalking Under Texas Law?
In the state of Texas, in order for a person to be arrested for stalking, there must be more than one incident. However, a person may still be charged with stalking regardless of if the alleged victim was harmed by the defendant. Texas law also states that the stalking does not have to be directed at only the alleged victim. A person may be charged with stalking under the Texas Penal Code Section 42.072 if they, on more than one occasion and pursuant to the same scheme or course of conduct that is directed specifically at another person, knowingly engages in conduct that:
Will be regarded as threatening to cause bodily injury, death for the other person, or their family, to feel harassed, threatened, annoyed, alarmed, abused, tormented, embarrassed or offended and in fear of bodily injury or death to themselves or their family.
Examples include:
- Repeatedly showing up to the alleged victim’s home when the defendant does not reside there
- The defendant makes a point to be where they know the alleged victim will be
- They engage in conduct they know will cause the alleged victim to be in fear
If you have been accused of stalking in San Antonio, Texas, it is crucial you get the help of Attorney Sophia C. Martinez, as you may be facing serious legal repercussions if convicted.
What Penalties Will You Face for a Stalking Conviction in San Antonio?
After being charged with a serious crime like stalking, it is vital that you understand what penalties you may be facing if you are convicted of the crime. In Texas, individuals charged with the offense of stalking can be charged as a felony of the third degree. Depending on your criminal history, the criminal offense may be enhanced to a felony of the second degree if you have previously been convicted of an offense. If you are found guilty of stalking in Texas, you may face the following legal penalties:
- Third-Degree Felony: If you are convicted of stalking as a third-degree felony in Texas, you may be facing two to ten years in prison as well as a maximum fine of $10,000.
- Second-Degree Felony: If you are convicted of stalking as a second-degree felony in Texas you may be facing two twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Stalking is a very serious and complicated offense. If you believe you have been wrongfully accused of stalking in Texas, it is crucial that you retain the help of an attorney as soon as possible to begin working on your case. Attorney Sophia C. Martinez has more than 25 years of experience helping clients accused of crimes build a strong case so that their rights and interests are protected when faced with serious legal repercussions for crimes like stalking.
Why Should You Hire a Stalking Defense Lawyer in San Antonio?
After you have been charged with stalking in San Antonio, it may feel like you are on your own as you navigate the criminal defense system. However, no one should have to stand alone as they defend their rights and honor after being accused of a crime. Everyone deserves the right to a fair trial, which is why it is important to have the help of a trusted legal professional. When you work with trusted criminal defense attorney Sophia Martinez, you will be offered the following benefits:
- Personalized legal counsel
- Help gathering evidence to support your defense case
- Interview witnesses who can vouch for your innocence
- Trusted representation
To get help with your stalking defense case, contact Sophia Martinez Law as soon as possible to begin discussing the best next steps for your case.
Get Help From a San Antonio Stalking Defense Lawyer
Former Assistant District Attorney Sophia C. Martinez has extensive experience in defending people accused of stalking in San Antonio, Texas. With over 25 years of supporting the accused during their fight for justice, Sophia Martinez Law is prepared to fight for your rights and interests.
To schedule a free evaluation to better understand your options after being accused of stalking in Texas, contact a San Antonio stalking defense attorney at Sophia Martinez Law today by completing our contact form or calling (210) 226-3000. Our phone lines are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We also speak Spanish.