Understanding Stalking Laws and Protective Orders in Utah
If you’re facing stalking or harassment in Utah, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and protection options. Utah provides two main categories of protective orders: criminal and civil, each serving distinct purposes with specific requirements.
Utah Stalking Laws
In Utah, laws regarding this topic are both comprehensive and complex. In a Utah statute, it outlines various behaviors that constitute stalking, including:
Civil Stalking: This requires two or more counted incidents against one person.
Criminal Stalking: Charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the severity of the behavior.
Types of Protective Orders
Utah offers several types of protective orders specifically for those affected by stalking:
Cohabitant Protective Orders: Designed for domestic violence cases involving current or former cohabitants, relatives, or sexual partners.
Dating Protective Orders: Applicable for non-cohabiting romantic relationships.
Sexual Assault Protective Orders: Protects victims from their assailants, including cases of non-consensual sharing of explicit photos.
Child Protective Orders: Safeguards children who have experienced or witnessed abuse.
Consequences of Stalking in Utah
These type of convictions carry serious penalties under Utah law:
First-time offense: Class A Misdemeanor, with penalties of up to one year in jail and/or a $2,500 fine.
Repeat offenses or violations: Can lead to a Third Degree Felony, resulting in up to five years in prison and/or a $5,000 fine.
Stalking with a dangerous weapon: Considered a Second Degree Felony, with penalties of up to 15 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine.
Seeking Legal Help?
If you are dealing with protective order issues or harassment concerns, it’s important to consult an experienced attorney. Jake Gunter, a Utah criminal defense expert, offers consultations to help you understand your options and rights regarding stalking. Call or text Jake at (801) 373-6345 for assistance. Your safety is paramount, so don’t hesitate to seek legal help if you feel threatened or unsafe.
