Walk It Through: The Messages That Would Not Stop
An ex's texts at all hours, a block that does not work, cyberstalking, stalking, and a protective order.
After a breakup, an ex sends dozens of messages a day, then opens new accounts after each block.
Two things a person in this spot might do. Picking one shows what the law says about it.
Harassment by a former partner. Threats of violence, workplace harassment and online speech that is protected are not worked through here.
A practice walkthrough, not a prediction of how any real one will go. Legal information, not legal advice.
Words this turns on
Terms with a legal meaning that is narrower than the everyday one. Each links to the definition and the authority behind it.
- Domestic abuseCausing or attempting physical harm, placing someone in fear of serious harm, or forced sexual relations, between family members or certain dating partners.
- Protective orderA family court order against domestic abuse, for a fixed period of no more than three years, which can order the defendant out of the home and firearms surrendered.
- Temporary order without noticeAn order made before the other side is heard, on sworn facts of immediate harm, lasting no more than twenty-one days unless extended.
- CyberstalkingSending electronic communications only to harass a person or their family. A first offense is a misdemeanor of up to one year or $500.
- FelonyAn offense that may be punished by more than one year, or a fine of more than $1,000, unless a statute says otherwise.
- MisdemeanorAn offense punishable by not more than one year, or not more than $1,000, or both.
- StalkingHarassing someone, or willfully and repeatedly following them meaning to put them in fear of bodily injury. A felony of up to five years.