top of page

¿Estás sufriendo acoso o amenazas? Conoce tus derechos.

If you’re facing harassment, stalking, or need a restraining order, this page provides clear and simple steps to help you. Below, you’ll find the most important information, with links for further details.

​

Immediate Help

​

  • If you’re in danger, call 911.

​

What is Harassment & Stalking?

​

  • Harassment (First Degree): Repeated, intentional actions that cause distress (e.g., following, unwanted contact, property damage).

  • Harassment (Second Degree): Repeated verbal, written, or electronic contact causing emotional distress. Stalking: A pattern of behavior causing fear of harm to you or your family.

​

When to File a Police Report vs. a Restraining Order

​

If you are experiencing harassment or stalking, it’s important to take the right steps to protect yourself. In many cases, a restraining order is the most effective way to stop unwanted behavior and does not require filing a police report. However, if the behavior meets the legal definition of a crime—such as threats of violence, physical harm, or repeated harassment that causes distress—you may be able to file a police report.

​

When to File for a Restraining Order Instead of a Police Report:

​

  • The unwanted behavior does not involve a direct crime but is causing ongoing distress.

  • The person is repeatedly contacting you, showing up at places you frequent, or making you uncomfortable, but no crime has been committed.

  • You want legal protection to prevent further contact without involving criminal charges.

​

When to File a Police Report:

​

  • You have been physically harmed, threatened, or fear for your safety.

  • The person has violated an existing restraining order.

  • The harassment includes stalking that meets the legal definition of a crime (e.g., threats of harm, property damage, repeated following, or surveillance).

​

Seeking a restraining order first can often provide the protection you need. If the behavior escalates or violates the terms of the restraining order, law enforcement can take further action. 

If you’re unsure about what steps to take, we’re here to help. Feel free to contact us for guidance and support.

​

​

​​

​​​​​​​​​​​

Tabla de órdenes de restricción

¿Qué sucede si se incumple una orden?

  • Delito menor: Hasta 3 años de prisión y/o una multa de 2.000 dólares.

  • Delito grave: Hasta 5 años de prisión.

Cómo solicitar una orden de restricción

  • Documenta todo: guarda mensajes, informes policiales y declaraciones de testigos.

  • Envía una carta de no contacto (para casos de acoso no violento). A continuación, encontrarás un enlace con un ejemplo de carta de no contacto.

  • Presente la demanda ante el tribunal correspondiente:

  • Juzgado de Paz (Orden de Restricción)

  • Tribunal de Familia (Orden de Protección)

  • Tribunal de Circuito (Orden de Restricción Permanente)

  • Asista a la audiencia judicial con pruebas y testigos.

Qué llevar al tribunal

  • Copias impresas de mensajes de texto, correos electrónicos o publicaciones en redes sociales.

  • Informes policiales y documentos judiciales previos.

  • Testigos dispuestos a declarar.

  • Memoria USB/CD con evidencia de audio o video.

Recursos adicionales

bottom of page