If you are facing Harassment charges in Fort Collins or Larimer County, it is important to understand what Colorado law considers Harassment. While many people associate Harassment with repeated unwanted contact, Colorado’s Harassment statute covers several different types of conduct. A Harassment charge can result from a personal dispute, physical confrontation, repeated communications, or conduct in a public place. Depending on the circumstances and the specific subsection charged, Harassment may be classified as a petty offense or misdemeanor.
Fort Collins Harassment Lawyer: What Is Harassment Under Colorado Law?
Under Colorado law, a person may commit Harassment when, with the intent to harass, annoy, or alarm another person, they engage in certain prohibited conduct.
The specific conduct covered by Colorado’s Harassment statute includes several situations, such as:
- Unwanted physical contact: Striking, shoving, kicking, or otherwise subjecting another person to physical contact can result in a Harassment charge.
- Obscene language or gestures: Directing obscene language or making an obscene gesture toward another person in a public place may constitute Harassment.
- Following someone in public: Following another person in or around a public place can be charged as Harassment when the required intent is present.
- Certain electronic communications: Phone calls, text messages, emails, and other electronic communications may result in a Harassment charge when they meet the requirements of the statute.
- Repeated insults or taunting: Certain repeated insults, challenges, or offensively coarse communications that are likely to provoke a violent or disorderly response can also fall under Colorado’s Harassment law.
Harassment Charges and Domestic Violence in Loveland and Estes Park
Harassment allegations sometimes arise from disputes involving spouses, dating partners or significant others. When the alleged conduct involves an intimate relationship, the case may also involve a Domestic Violence designation, which can create additional court requirements and consequences.
What Happens After a Harassment Charge? A Larimer County Harassment Attorney Explains
If you have been charged with Harassment in Fort Collins, Loveland, or another Larimer County community, you may be required to appear in Larimer County Court. Your charging documents should provide information about the allegations and your required court appearance. Because Harassment charges can carry criminal penalties and may affect your record, it is important to take the charge seriously.
Charged with Harassment? Contact a Fort Collins Criminal Defense Attorney
If you are facing Harassment charges in Larimer County, a Fort Collins criminal defense attorney can explain the charge, the court process, and what to expect as your case moves forward. Contact an experienced Larimer County criminal defense attorney to discuss your situation and your legal options.
If you’re facing a Harassment charge, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact the best criminal defense attorneys from the O’Malley Law Office at 970-658-0007 to schedule a free initial consultation. Together, we can protect your future.
Photo by Keira Burton