Utah Stalking Attorney - Salt Lake Criminal Lawyer

A criminal stalking charge in Utah can be filed either as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the case circumstances. The penalties for stalking can include prison time and thousands of dollars in fines. If you are facing criminal charges in Utah, an experienced criminal defense attorney can ensure that your rights are protected. Based in Salt Lake City, Stephen Howard has successfully defended stalking cases and other criminal charges throughout Utah. If you are facing criminal charges, you need a lawyer with real experience, and a record of achieving real results. Contact us today for an initial consultation.

Elements of a Criminal Stalking Charge in Utah

The Utah criminal code provides for criminal penalties against a person who intentionally or knowingly violates a court's civil stalking injunction. But criminal stalking charges can also apply without a pre-existing stalking injunction if a prosecuting attorney can present evidence that the person "intentionally or knowingly engages in a course of conduct directed at a specific person and knows or should know that the course of conduct would cause a reasonable person: (a) to fear for the person's own safety or the safety of a third person; or (b) to suffer other emotional distress."

Penalties for a Stalking Conviction in Utah

Under most conditions, stalking will be filed as a class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year in jail and a fine and surcharge of almost $5,000. Stalking can become a third degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine and surcharge of nearly $10,000 if a person has a prior stalking conviction, previously committed another felony against the currently alleged stalking victim, or has violated a permanent stalking injunction. Stalking can be charged as a second degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a fine and surcharge of close to $20,0000, if the person has two prior stalking convictions, or uses a dangerous weapon or other means or force likely to cause death or serious bodily injury in committing the crime of stalking. Stalking can also be considered a domestic violence crime.

Finding a Criminal Defense Attorney in Salt Lake City, Utah

Any criminal case is serious.  If you are facing criminal prosecution for stalking or other crimes, you need an experienced Utah criminal defense lawyer on your side. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation with Salt Lake criminal defense attorney Stephen Howard.