Cyber Bullying Lawyer at Mullen Law Firm

 

Cyber Bullying Attorney

In the age of the internet, cyberbullying is a pervasive problem affecting individuals of all backgrounds and ages. Victims of cyberbullying often feel helpless and alone, unsure of where to turn for help. Meanwhile, those accused of cyberbullying may also find themselves in a difficult position, facing serious legal consequences and damage to their reputation.

Cyberbullying is using the internet, cell phone, or electronic means of communication to bully, harass, or intimidate someone. Bullying can be sending threatening messages, spreading rumors or lies, sharing embarrassing photos or videos, or impersonating someone online. Cyberbullying can have severe consequences on the victim, including severe emotional distress, social isolation, and even physical harm.

A cyber bullying lawyer offers legal counsel for cases related to online harassment, intimidation, or threats. Cyber bullying attorneys at Mullen Law Firm can help you understand your legal options and hold the cyber-harassment perpetrator accountable for their actions. They can aid you in getting a restraining order, seeking damages for emotional distress, or pursuing criminal charges against the cyber bully.

Cyber Bullying Law in New York

In New York, cyberbullying can be prosecuted as harassment or stalking. Cyberbullying can be a hate crime, especially if repeated acts are committed against a specific person and intended to cause fear of physical or mental harm. If a person repeatedly performs actions intended to annoy or anger the victim and serve no legitimate legal purpose, they can face criminal harassment charges.

The seriousness of the harassment determines the crime category, with more severe crimes receiving harsher penalties. Harassment, stalking, and hate crimes only apply to actions without a legitimate purpose. The severity of the actions taken also determines the degree of the offense.

Stalking violations vary by degree and move up in severity from fourth to first-degree stalking based on the factors present in the offense.

  • Stalking in the first degree is a Class D felony, where the offender intentionally or recklessly injures the victim.

  • Second-degree stalking occurs when the offender is at least 21 and the victim is 14 or younger, or when the offender threatens to use a weapon against the victim. This type of stalking is a Class E felony, punishable by a maximum of four years in prison. 

  •  Stalking in the third degree involves a repeated offense or conduct that makes the victim fear for their physical safety. It is a Class A misdemeanor.

  • Fourth-degree stalking is the least severe stalking violation and is a Class B misdemeanor.

Cyber bullying may be prosecuted as fourth-degree stalking, as it affects the victim’s mental health and may cause them to fear for their reputation, employment, or life in general.

However, cyber bullying may be considered second-degree harassment if it annoys the victim but does not make them fear for their physical or mental well-being. If the perpetrator’s actions put the victim’s physical safety at risk, the offense can bump up to first-degree harassment.

 

Possible Consequences of Cyber harassment

Crimes related to online harassment can have various degrees of severity and penalties. If cyber bullying causes reasonable fear for physical safety, it is considered harassment in the first degree, a Class B misdemeanor. If convicted, the perpetrator may face up to 90 imprisonment days and a $500 fine.

An act of cyber harassment that causes serious annoyance or anger to the victim but does not make them fear for their safety can carry up to 15 days in jail and a 250-dollar fine. This type of violation is a second-degree harassment. 

Aggravated harassment in the second degree is a Class A misdemeanor leading to up to one year in jail and 1,000 dollars in fines. If the offender commits first-degree aggravated harassment, they may be charged with a Class E felony, which may lead to up to four years in prison and a $5,000 fine.

Fourth-degree stalking (Class B misdemeanor) can lead to 90 days in jail and possible fines. Consequent stalking offenses, especially those causing physical injury or fear of physical injury, are punishable by up to 7 years in prison.

How an Attorney Can Help With Your Cyber Bullying Case

An attorney is an asset when dealing with a cyberbullying case. An cyber bullying attorney can help victims collect evidence, file restraining orders, pursue legal action against the cyber bully and protect them from internet defamation consequences

They can also help negotiate with social networking sites and other internet platforms to remove harmful content or social media posts.

An attorney can help defend you and protect your rights in a cyberbullying case. They can assist in building a solid case and negotiating with the prosecution. They can also help you understand the legal implications of your actions and work towards a resolution that minimizes the potential consequences.

A cyber bullying lawyer can help defend your rights and ensure a fair trial if you face cyberbullying charges. They can challenge the evidence presented against you by the court, negotiate plea deals, and work to minimize the consequences of a conviction.

Victims of cyberbullying and cyber harassment can get compassionate and effective legal representation. From seeking protective orders to pursuing civil lawsuits against the perpetrator, the internet privacy lawyer works tirelessly to ensure that cyber bullies and online harassment victims receive the justice they deserve.

Contact Mullen Law Firm Lawyer for Your Cyber Bullying Case

Mullen Law Firm has a team of experienced attorneys with a deep understanding of the complex legal issues surrounding cyberbullying. The Mullen Law Firm helps victims of cyber harassment and those accused navigate the legal process and know their options.

The firm also has school bullying lawyers who understand the effects of cyberbullying on a child and are ready to hold schools, school districts, and cyber bullies accountable.

We offer strategic and effective defense for those accused of cyberbullying. With an in-depth understanding of the state and federal laws governing cyberbullying, the firm works to protect the rights of the accused and minimize the potential legal consequences of their actions.

Whether you are a victim of cyber harassment or the accused of bullying, the Mullen Law Firm is here to aid you through the legal process of your case. Contact us today to organize a free consultation.

F.A.Q.s

Can Schools Be Held Liable for Cyberbullying?

Schools can be held liable for cyberbullying if they know about the bullying and fail to take appropriate action to stop it.

What Are Some Common Forms of Cyberbullying?

Typical forms of cyberbullying include sending threatening or abusive text messages, sharing embarrassing photos or videos, spreading rumors, and creating fake social media accounts to impersonate someone.

Can a Cyber Bullying Lawyer Help Me if the Perpetrator Is Anonymous?

Yes, a cyber bullying lawyer can help you pursue legal action against anonymous perpetrators of cyberbullying. They can work with law enforcement, schools, law offices, and online platforms to identify the perpetrator and bring them to justice.

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