My Ex Keeps Stalking Me

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My Ex Keeps Stalking Me

Man standing behind a tree watching a coupleStalking has been defined as a course of conduct that is directed at one person that would cause a reasonable person to feel fear. Stalking is a pattern of  behavior consisting of individual acts. Those acts independently could seem harmless and often non-criminal in nature, but when considered in the aggregate could constitute criminal behavior. The legal definition of stalking may differ depending upon which state you live in, however, stalking is a crime in all fifty states. 

Stalked by my ex

In New Jersey, stalking is a fourth-degree crime. It is a third-degree crime if there is already a court order that prohibits the behavior. It is also a third-degree crime if the alleged stalker is serving jail time or is on parole or probation. Additionally, the offense is also a third-degree crime for any subsequent offenses.

New Jersey has specified laws for stalking. This harassing behavior is thought of as threatening, persistent, and distressing, but has not evolved into terroristic threats or assault. N.J.S.A 2C:12-10 prohibits stalking in any form and provides harsh penalties to those who violate this statute.

Oftentimes the alleged stalker and the victim were in a prior relationship. Divorced and separated spouses are often more likely than others to be stalked by their former partners.  In these circumstances, often the stalker is intent on maintaining contact or a relationship with the victim,

Stalker behavior top signs

If your ex is engaging in any of the following behaviors, you could be involved in a stalking situation: calling when you ask the person not to call you, sending you unwanted communications, such as emails, text messages, or letters, giving you gifts that you do not want to receive, following you, or arriving in places where you are without any purpose to be there, obtaining information about you, spreading rumors, and refusing to leave you alone, even after you have asked. 

Ex stalking my social media

Posting or sharing personal information about you on a platform, such as social media, is another circumstance that could lead to being stalked by your ex.  The evolution of social media has now resulted in another atmosphere where stalking could occur against a victim.

How to get a stalker to leave you alone

If you think your ex may be stalking you, it is critical that you keep a detailed record of the situations and interactions that are taking place.  It may be necessary at some point in time for you to provide a log of the behaviors taking place when you are being stalked by your ex.  Contact law-enforcement immediately and explore state and local resources that may also be available to you.  You should also consider seeking a domestic violence restraining order. At times, the circumstances may warrant the issuance of a restraining order.  Do not dismiss this as an option to pursue to protect yourself.

Inform family and friends about the situation.  Make sure that you are always aware of your surroundings. You may also want to consider taking a personal safety training course or self defense course so that you are prepared to protect yourself in the event that the need arises.  It is critical to develop a support system and always remain informed and be aware.

My ex keeps stalking me

Here at DeTorres & DeGeorge, we work zealously to advocate for our clients. If you believe you are being stalked by your ex, we are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

 

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