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What is Stalking in Illinois?
There’s one reason you’re on this website: you’re looking for an elite criminal defense law firm. Spodek Law Group is renowned for providing top-tier legal representation nationwide, with a particular focus on stalking defense cases in Chicago. We understand the gravity of stalking charges and are committed to offering personalized, white-glove service to every client.
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What is Stalking in Illinois?
In Illinois, stalking is defined as a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to fear for their safety or the safety of others, or suffer emotional distress. Illinois law outlines two categories of stalking:
- Stalking (Class 4 felony)
- Aggravated Stalking (Class 3 felony)
Aggravated stalking involves threatening a person, stalking after a protective order, or stalking a minor or disabled person. Have you been accused of stalking? We’re here to listen and provide the strongest possible defense.
Common Stalking Scenarios
Stalking allegations often arise in heated domestic situations or messy breakups. However, the law also covers cases where the accused and alleged victim are strangers or have only a casual connection. Some common stalking scenarios include:
- Repeatedly calling, texting, or showing up at someone’s home/workplace uninvited
- Sending unwanted gifts, letters, or emails
- Using GPS or spyware to track someone’s location
- Spreading lies or posting private information about someone online
- Any behavior that causes the alleged victim to fear for their safety
Even if your intentions were not malicious, the alleged victim’s state of mind is a key factor. We’ll work to understand all perspectives and build the most robust defense strategy.
Potential Defenses Against Stalking Charges
Every stalking case is unique, but some potential defense arguments include:
- Lack of intent to cause fear or distress
- The alleged victim’s fear was unreasonable given the circumstances
- First Amendment free speech protections
- Insufficient evidence or misunderstanding of the situation
- Allegations motivated by anger or retaliation rather than legitimate stalking
Our skilled attorneys will carefully examine all evidence, witness statements, and legal nuances to craft the strongest possible defense tailored to your case.
Penalties for Stalking Convictions in Illinois
The penalties for stalking convictions in Illinois are severe:
- Stalking (Class 4 felony): 1-3 years in prison and fines up to $25,000
- Aggravated Stalking (Class 3 felony): 2-5 years in prison and fines up to $25,000
Convicted stalkers may also face probation, restraining orders, counseling requirements, and permanent criminal records that impact future employment, housing, and travel. Don’t take chances with your future – contact us immediately if accused of stalking.
Why Hire Spodek Law Group?
When your freedom and future are at stake, you need the most tenacious legal team on your side. Spodek Law Group has over 50 years of combined experience defending clients against stalking and harassment charges in Chicago and nationwide. We are selective about our caseload to provide each client with devoted, personalized attention.Our attorneys have appeared on Court TV, CNN, and were even featured in a Netflix series. We leverage cutting-edge technology like a secure digital client portal to provide seamless communication and case management. Most importantly, we treat every client with the utmost discretion, dignity and respect.
The Spodek Law Group Approach
From our very first consultation, we aim to put you at ease and develop a deep understanding of your unique situation. We’ll walk you through every step of the legal process, answering all your questions along the way. Our attorneys are aggressive litigators, but we also explore all possibilities for minimizing charges or avoiding trial through pre-indictment intervention, motions to suppress evidence, plea negotiations, and more.No matter how complex your stalking case may seem, we have the expertise to develop a comprehensive defense strategy. We’ll fight tirelessly to protect your rights, reputation and future. It’s simple: every single client deserves honesty and white glove service from an elite criminal defense firm.