Criminal Harassment Attorney: Your Complete Guide to Legal Defense in Michigan

When faced with allegations of harassment or stalking, the stakes couldn’t be higher. These charges can impact your freedom, career, relationships, and future. That’s why working with a skilled criminal harassment attorney is essential. At Lykins Law PLC, clients gain access to compassionate yet aggressive defense representation that protects their rights and helps them navigate the complex world of criminal law in Michigan.

In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about harassment charges, your legal rights, potential penalties, and how a defense attorney can make all the difference in your case.

Understanding Criminal Harassment in Michigan

Criminal harassment, also known as stalking or threatening communication, refers to any unwanted behavior that causes another person to feel frightened, threatened, or emotionally distressed. These cases often arise from personal conflicts, relationship breakdowns, workplace disputes, or online interactions.

Under Michigan law, harassment can include:

• Repeated unwanted calls, texts, or messages

• Following or monitoring someone

• Making threats (direct or implied)

• Spreading false information or defamation

• Showing up uninvited at someone’s home or workplace

Even if the accused didn’t intend harm, the perception of the victim and the surrounding circumstances can lead to criminal charges. This makes it crucial to have a knowledgeable defense lawyer who understands how to challenge the prosecution’s narrative.

Types of Harassment Charges in Michigan

There are varying degrees of harassment charges in Michigan, each with different penalties and legal implications:

1. Misdemeanor Harassment (Simple Stalking):
   Involves unwanted contact or communication that causes emotional distress. Punishable by up to one year in jail and fines.

2. Aggravated Stalking:
   Occurs when harassment includes credible threats, violations of restraining orders, or victims under 18 years old. This is a felony, with penalties of up to five years in prison.

3. Cyberstalking or Online Harassment:
   Using digital means—emails, social media, or messages—to threaten or harass someone. Increasingly common, these cases require strong legal defense focused on intent and digital evidence.

A criminal harassment attorney can analyze evidence, examine police reports, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case to build a solid defense.

The Serious Consequences of a Harassment Conviction

The consequences of being convicted of harassment or stalking can extend far beyond fines or jail time. These may include:

• A permanent criminal record, affecting future employment and housing opportunities

• Restraining orders or loss of custody/visitation rights

• Damage to reputation and community relationships

• Loss of firearm rights (in felony cases)

• Probation with strict conditions and monitoring

In addition to these penalties, a harassment conviction can carry deep emotional and social stigma. Having a seasoned defense lawyer can significantly reduce the long-term damage of such accusations.

How a Criminal Harassment Attorney Can Help

A defense attorney’s role is not only to represent you in court but to protect your constitutional rights every step of the way. When you hire a criminal harassment attorney, they will:

1. Investigate the Facts:
   Collect evidence, witness statements, and communication records to uncover inconsistencies in the accuser’s claims.

2. Challenge the Prosecution’s Case:
   Dispute elements like intent, credibility, and proof of harassment—core aspects that must be established beyond a reasonable doubt.

3. Negotiate Favorable Outcomes:
   Pursue case dismissals, reduced charges, or plea agreements when appropriate.

4. Defend You at Trial:
   Present a strong, evidence-based defense in front of a judge or jury, emphasizing your innocence or mitigating factors.

5. Protect Your Future:
   Advise on expungement, probation compliance, and reputation restoration following your case.

Working with an experienced firm like Lykins Law PLC ensures that you have a knowledgeable ally who understands Michigan’s criminal justice system and how to navigate it effectively.

Common Defenses Against Harassment Charges

Every case is unique, but effective defense strategies often include:

• Lack of Intent: Showing that your actions weren’t meant to cause distress.

• False Accusations: Demonstrating that the complaint was exaggerated or fabricated.

• Insufficient Evidence: Proving that there’s no credible proof linking you to the alleged behavior.

• Freedom of Speech: Establishing that your communications were protected under the First Amendment.

• Mistaken Identity: Highlighting that another person may have committed the alleged acts.

Your criminal harassment attorney will tailor the defense strategy to your situation, focusing on the weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and highlighting any procedural or constitutional violations.

Why Early Legal Action Is Critical

If you’re accused of harassment, time is not on your side. Early legal representation can dramatically influence the outcome of your case. The sooner your attorney can start gathering evidence and speaking to witnesses, the stronger your defense will be.

Many defendants make the mistake of speaking to law enforcement without legal counsel. Anything said can—and often will—be used against you. By hiring a lawyer immediately, you protect yourself from self-incrimination and ensure that your rights are preserved from the very beginning.

The Role of Technology and Cyber Evidence

In today’s digital era, harassment cases often involve electronic evidence such as texts, social media posts, or emails. Handling this type of data requires specialized legal understanding.

A qualified attorney will:

• Request digital records and metadata

• Examine timestamps and IP logs

• Analyze whether communications were private or public

• Determine if any evidence was obtained illegally

This level of technical scrutiny can often uncover discrepancies that help dismantle the prosecution’s claims.

Why Choose Lykins Law PLC

Lykins Law PLC is a respected Michigan-based law firm with extensive experience defending clients against harassment, stalking, and related criminal charges. The firm is led by seasoned attorney Eric Lykins, known for his aggressive defense strategies and commitment to protecting clients’ rights.

The firm provides:

• Personalized case evaluation

• Transparent communication and updates

• Aggressive representation in court

• A strong record of favorable outcomes

Their approach focuses on strategy, empathy, and discretion, ensuring that clients are supported legally and personally throughout the process.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit Lykins Law PLC.

What to Expect During the Legal Process

If you’re charged with harassment in Michigan, your case typically follows these stages:

1. Investigation and Arrest
   Law enforcement gathers evidence and may issue a warrant for your arrest.

2. Arraignment
   You appear in court to hear the charges and enter a plea. Your attorney ensures your rights are protected from this first step.

3. Pre-Trial and Discovery
   Evidence is exchanged between both sides. Your attorney may file motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence.

4. Negotiation or Trial
   Depending on your case, your lawyer may negotiate a plea deal or prepare for a full trial.

5. Verdict and Sentencing
   If found guilty, sentencing follows. However, a strong defense may result in reduced penalties or even case dismissal.

Protecting Your Rights and Reputation

Being accused of harassment can be isolating and frightening. The social stigma alone can take a heavy toll, even before your case reaches court. This is where an experienced criminal harassment attorney becomes invaluable—not just as your legal advocate, but as your partner in rebuilding your life and reputation.

They can also help you with:

• Removing restraining orders

• Clearing your record (if eligible)

• Managing employment or licensing consequences

• Counseling and rehabilitation programs to show good faith to the court

Final Thoughts

Facing harassment charges is a serious matter that requires immediate, strategic, and compassionate legal intervention. Whether you’re dealing with misdemeanor stalking or felony-level accusations, your choice of attorney can determine the trajectory of your life for years to come.