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Breckenridge Stalking Attorneys

Dedicated Defense Against Stalking Charges in Breckenridge, CO

Nobody wants to be accused of stalking. It’s a serious charge that could damage your reputation, and if convicted, you may be facing up to four years in jail for a first offense. It’s essential to find the right attorney as soon as possible to protect your freedom and preserve your good name.

Kylie Whitaker and Ehren Penix of Whitaker & Penix, LLC have strong ties to the court system in Breckenridge and well-established relationships with local judges and prosecutors. We’ll investigate your case and find the best strategy to get your charges reduced or dismissed altogether so you can get on with your life. Kylie was selected as a Rising Star attorney in Colorado by Super Lawyers, and Whitaker & Penix, LLC holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.

Give us a call at (970) 368-0602 to schedule a free consultation today.

What Is Criminal Stalking in Colorado?

Criminal stalking is a repeated pattern of unwanted attention, contact, or harassment that would cause a reasonable person to feel unsafe. In Colorado, a person may be charged with stalking if they make a credible threat against the victim or engage in repeated behavior that causes the victim to be afraid or suffer serious emotional distress.

A credible threat involves the use of threatening words, physical actions, or repeated conduct that causes the victim to feel a reasonable fear for the safety of themself, their immediate family, or anyone with whom they have an ongoing relationship.

Credible threats can take the form of:

  • Spoken words
  • Texts
  • Emails
  • Written communication
  • Gestures
  • Actions
  • Any other means of communication

Penalties for Stalking in Colorado

Stalking is a Class 5 felony in Colorado. Penalties for a first offense include a prison sentence of up to four years with a mandatory two-year parole. Stalking becomes a Class 4 felony for repeat offenders or if the case occurs within 7 years of a prior offense that resulted in conviction. If the defendant violates a protective order, or if they are a repeat offender, then penalties may be increased to eight years in prison with a mandatory three-year parole.

What Is Considered Stalking in Colorado?

Stalking is often associated with domestic violence, but anyone can be accused of criminal stalking if their repeated actions make another person feel threatened. Examples of behavior that may be considered stalking include:

  • Repeatedly following a person
  • Repeatedly approaching a person
  • Repeatedly placing a person under surveillance
  • Repeatedly contacting or making any form of communication with a person or those close to them

Legal Defenses Against Stalking Charges

If you have been accused of or charged with stalking, you’ll want to contact the experienced criminal defense lawyers at Whitaker & Penix, LLC right away so we can advise you on the best way to move forward. We will conduct a full investigation and design an effective legal strategy to protect you.

Legal arguments employed by our Breckenridge criminal defense attorneys will depend on the specific circumstances in your case. Common defenses against stalking charges include the following:

  • The prosecution failed to provide enough credible evidence to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt.
  • The alleged victim lied about what occurred.
  • The victim mistakenly identified you as the offender.
  • The alleged victim has an ulterior motive, such as revenge for a breakup, to falsely accuse you.
  • A reasonable person would not have become fearful under similar circumstances.
  • The threat was not credible.
  • You were exercising your right to free speech.

Were You Accused of Stalking in Summit County?

If you are facing stalking allegations in Summit County, contact Whitaker & Penix, LLC as soon as possible. Stalking is a serious offense, and conviction could significantly impact your future. It’s important to avoid contact with the accused. Allow us to handle the matter instead. Exercise your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney–consult with a lawyer before you talk to law enforcement.

Everyone who is accused of a criminal offense deserves to have strong legal representation. At Whitaker & Penix, LLC, we have the right mix of skills, resources, and local knowledge to defend you and protect your future.

Call (970) 368-0602 to learn more today with a free consultation.