Criminal Defense Lawyers

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.

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:

1. Stalking (Class 4 felony)
2. 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.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

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.