Criminal Harassment
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Criminal Harassment
Criminal harassment is an offence committed by engaging in threatening conduct designed to cause the person on the other end of that conduct to be harassed. Harassing conduct includes repeatedly following someone, monitoring someone’s locations, movements or actions, repeated unwanted communication, watching or spying on someone, and any other behaviours of a threatening nature.
Even friendly or loving communication may be harassing if it is repeated or unwanted. For example, sending repeated I love you messages, or leaving gifts, when you know or ought to know that same in unwelcome. Wanting closure or to try and persuade someone to continue a relationship is not a defence to criminal harassment if you’ve been made aware that your conduct or communication is unwanted.
To prove the offence the Crown must show that the harassing behaviour caused the other person to fear for their safety or that of someone else. That fear must be reasonable in all of the circumstances.
A charge of criminal harassment is often preceded with a warning from police to leave the other person alone or stop all contact. Continuing the behaviour after that warning is likely to result in charge, and the chances of a successful prosecution may be increased as there is no longer an argument to be made that the accused didn’t realize their conduct was harassing.
Criminal harassment is an offence that often occurs in a domestic or intimate partner context. When that is the setting of the offence, it is viewed as aggravating and may attract more serious penalties. In all cases, it is an offence that is taken very seriously by the courts and often attracts jail sentences, even for first time offenders.
Being convicted of criminal harassment charges can result in serious legal consequences that may jeopardize your present and future job opportunities, immigration standing, family life, and even your freedom. The criminal record that follows can continue to affect you for many years.
At Hepburn Wilhelm Criminal Defence, our goal is to ensure every client receives the personalized focus and attention their case deserves. We provide high-quality criminal defence representation tailored to your case with skill and empathy. If you are facing theft charges, get in touch with us today.
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Kaley Hepburn & Lauren Wilhelm: Advocates in Your Corner
Hepburn Wilhelm is a boutique criminal defence firm in Hamilton, Ontario. With over 30 years of combined experience, we provide straightforward advice and skilled representation through all stages of the criminal process. Whether inside the courtroom or behind the scenes, we work hard to make sure your rights are protected, as we strive to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
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