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Stalking Defense You Can Trust

Stalking Defense Lawyer in Miami

Accused Of Stalking In Miami? Contact the Law Office of Armando J. Hernandez

Being accused of stalking or cyberstalking can turn your life upside down in a single day. You may be arrested, ordered not to contact someone you care about, and suddenly worried about jail and a permanent criminal record. In this situation, you need clear guidance and calm, informed advice.

At Law Office of Armando J. Hernandez, P.A., we help people who are facing these kinds of accusations. Our goal is to protect your freedom, your record, and your future while guiding you through every step of the criminal and injunction process. You can speak with us confidentially, and we will take the time to understand exactly what happened from your point of view.

Our firm is led by attorney Armando J. Hernandez, a former prosecutor with over 20 years of experience in Florida criminal law. This background gives our team a practical understanding of how the State Attorney’s Office evaluates and prosecutes stalking cases, and we use that insight to build focused defense strategies for our clients.

Put +20 years of defense experience in your corner. Contact the Law Office of Armando J. Hernandez, P.A. for a free initial case review. We are available 24/7 at (305) 400-0074 or through our contact form.

Understanding Stalking Laws in Florida

Stalking is strictly regulated under Florida Statute § 784.048. The law distinguishes between "Simple Stalking" and "Aggravated Stalking," both of which carry severe penalties.

  • Simple Stalking (First-Degree Misdemeanor): Under Florida law, stalking occurs when a person "willfully, maliciously, and repeatedly follows, harasses, or cyberstalks another person."
  • Aggravated Stalking (Third-Degree Felony): A stalking charge is elevated to Aggravated Stalking if the person willfully, maliciously, and repeatedly follows, harasses, or cyberstalks another person and:
    • Makes a credible threat to that person with the intent to place them in reasonable fear of death or bodily injury.
    • The victim is under 16 years of age.
    • The conduct occurs after an injunction for protection (restraining order) has been issued against the defendant.

Stalking allegations often arise out of breakups, neighborhood disputes, workplace conflicts, or ongoing family issues. It is not unusual for one side of the story to be heard first or for messages to be taken out of context. 

When we handle these cases, we look at the entire relationship history and pattern of communication. Our role is to help you present your side in a structured way that fits within Florida law and the practices of the Miami-Dade criminal courts.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of a Stalking Conviction

The consequences of a stalking conviction in Florida are far-reaching and can impact your freedom and civil rights.

  • Simple Stalking
    • Classified as a 1st Degree Misdemeanor
    • Punishable by up to 1 year in jail
    • Up to a $1,000 fine
  • Aggravated Stalking
    • Classified as a 3rd Degree Felony
    • Punishable by up to 5 years in prison
    • Up to a $5,000 fine
  • Cyberstalking
    • May be charged as a misdemeanor or felony
    • Penalties depend on the severity of the conduct and whether credible threats are involved

Collateral Consequences:

  • Permanent Restraining Orders: A stalking conviction often results in a permanent injunction, which can restrict where you live and work.
  • Loss of Firearm Rights: Felonies and domestic violence-related misdemeanors can lead to the forfeiture of your Second Amendment rights.
  • Employment Impact: Most employers conduct background checks, and a "stalking" or "harassment" label is often an automatic disqualifier for many positions.

Why Choose The Law Office of Armando J. Hernandez, P.A. For Stalking Charges

Choosing a stalking charges attorney in Miami means placing your freedom, reputation, and relationships in someone else’s hands. Our firm understands the weight of that decision and is committed to providing focused, individualized attention. We treat every case as serious and personal, ensuring that each client receives the time and strategic planning their situation deserves.

Attorney Armando J. Hernandez brings years of experience as a former prosecutor in Florida courts. That background helps us anticipate how the State builds stalking cases, from police reports to digital evidence. We carefully review messages, social media activity, call logs, and witness statements to understand the full context rather than relying on assumptions.

As a boutique criminal defense firm, we limit our caseload to dedicate meaningful resources to each client. We are available 24/7 for urgent situations and offer Spanish-language services for those who prefer to communicate in Spanish. Our work has been recognized by respected legal organizations, and we prioritize clear communication so clients always understand their options.

How Our Team Fights Stalking Allegations

Defending against stalking allegations requires a detailed, strategic approach focused on the specific facts of your case. These matters often turn on patterns of communication, context, and how contact was perceived. 

As a stalking defense lawyer in Miami-Dade County, our role is to closely examine the evidence, challenge weaknesses in the State’s case, and develop a defense strategy aligned with your goals.

Our approach to defending stalking charges:

  • Comprehensive Evidence Review: Careful analysis of police reports, witness statements, screenshots, call records, location data, and audio or video recordings collected by law enforcement.
  • Contextual Comparison: Cross-checking the State’s evidence with your account to identify inconsistencies, missing information, or alternative explanations.
  • Course-of-Conduct Analysis: Evaluating whether the alleged actions legally qualify as a repeated pattern required under stalking statutes.
  • Threat Assessment: Examining whether alleged threats are clearly supported by objective evidence.
  • Potential Legal Defenses: Considering arguments such as insufficient repetition, mutual communication, mistaken identity, or protected speech concerns.
  • Strategic Motion Practice & Negotiation: Filing appropriate motions, engaging in discussions with prosecutors in Miami-Dade County, and preparing for trial when necessary.
  • Ongoing Client Communication: Providing updates, explaining developments, and ensuring you understand each stage of the legal process.

Our goal is to ensure you are informed, prepared, and actively involved in building a defense tailored to your circumstances.

Speak With Our Stalking Defense Attorney in Miami About Your Case

If you are facing stalking or cyberstalking accusations in Miami, you do not have to navigate this alone. Talking with a criminal defense lawyer early can help you understand your options, avoid common mistakes, and begin protecting your future.

We are available around the clock, and we can speak with you or your family in English or Spanish. When you are ready to take the next step, reach out and let us review your case with you.

Call (305) 400-0074 or contact us online to speak with our team today.

Contact Us for Your Consultation

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What Sets Us Apart From The Rest?

Law Office of Armando J. Hernandez, P.A. is here to help you get the results you need with a team you can trust.

  • Antiguo fiscal del estado
  • Más de 20 años de experiencia
  • Enfoque exclusivo en defensa criminal
  • Revisión inicial gratuita del caso
  • Disponible 24/7
  • Miles de casos manejados exitosamente

What To Do After A Stalking Arrest

After an arrest in Miami-Dade County, you will usually appear before a judge for a first appearance or bond hearing. At that hearing, the court may consider conditions such as no-contact orders, stay-away zones, or electronic monitoring. 

Having a stalking charges lawyer in Miami involved as early as possible can help you understand what to expect and what information may be relevant to discuss with your counsel before any hearing.

Right after a stalking accusation, some steps are especially important:

  • Do not contact the complaining witness, in person, by phone, or online, even if you feel misunderstood.
  • Save texts, emails, call logs, social media messages, and any other communications, and share them with your attorney.
  • Avoid posting about the situation on social media or discussing details publicly.
  • Bring any court paperwork, such as an arrest form or injunction notice, to your meeting with us.
  • Contact our firm as soon as you can so we can review deadlines and upcoming court dates in Miami-Dade County.

When you call Law Office of Armando J. Hernandez, P.A., we work to review your situation promptly so you understand what the charges mean, what hearings are coming up, and what options may exist. Our team can help you prepare for court appearances and start to organize the evidence and information that may support your defense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I go to jail for a first stalking charge?

Jail is possible on a first stalking charge, depending on the facts, your record, and how the court views the case. Some people receive probation or other outcomes instead. We review your situation, explain potential penalties under Florida law, and discuss strategies to reduce your risk.

Should I contact the person who accused me?

In most situations, you should not contact the person who accused you. Contact can be viewed as continued harassment or a violation of court orders. It is usually safer to let us handle any necessary communication and to address misunderstandings through the legal process.

How fast do I need a stalking defense lawyer?

It is usually best to involve a lawyer as soon as you learn about an arrest, warrant, or injunction. Early representation can help at first appearance, bond hearings, and injunction hearings in Miami-Dade County. Our team is available 24 hours a day so you can reach us quickly.

Will this charge stay on my record forever?

A stalking arrest or conviction can appear on your record and may be seen in background checks. Whether it can be limited or addressed depends on the outcome of the case and Florida law on sealing or expungement. We discuss how different resolutions can affect your record.

How does your former prosecutor experience help my case?

Attorney Hernandez’s former prosecutor experience helps us understand how the State builds and evaluates stalking cases. We use that insight to identify weaknesses, anticipate arguments, and plan negotiations or trial strategy. This perspective, combined with our boutique approach, guides how we prepare your defense.

  • No hay tiempo de cárcel 3er DUl
  • No Jail Time 3rd DUl
  • Acquitted Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon
  • Dismissed Aggravated Battery of a Pregnant Woman
  • Dismissed Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon