In Florida, when someone keeps bothering you on purpose, we’re discussing harassment. Let’s break this down in plain English, but keep it legally accurate.
Definition and scope
A person commits harassment when they deliberately and repeatedly do things that upset you emotionally, with no good reason. Think of it as someone going out of their way to make your life difficult.
Key forms of harassment
Getting Followed Around (Stalking)
Look, if someone’s trailing you, watching your house, or keeps “accidentally” showing up wherever you go, that’s stalking. Legal reference: Check out Florida Statute §784.048. The courts take this seriously. It could be a misdemeanor, or if it’s really bad, they might bump it up to felony charges (that’s the aggravated stuff).
Online Creeps (Cyberstalking)
It’s the same deal as regular stalking, but now we’re talking Facebook, Twitter, emails, texts—you name it. The law doesn’t care if they’re following you on foot or through your phone—it’s still stalking.
Can’t Take a Hint (Harassing Communications)
When someone bombards you with calls or messages that serve no legitimate purpose. You know, the type who just won’t quit even after you’ve told them to stop.
Important legal notes:
- One-time incidents usually don’t cut it – we’re looking for a pattern here
- The behavior needs to be bad enough that any reasonable person would be upset
You’ve got options: courts can issue restraining orders (legally called injunctions)
Break that restraining order? Now we’re talking criminal charges
Remember: This isn’t just about being annoying – it’s about causing real emotional distress. The courts take this seriously, and so should you.
