Harassment Lawyer in Putnam County, NY
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
Serving clients across New York State, including Putnam County.
Harassment in New York can take many forms, from repeated unwanted contact to threats of violence. If you are facing harassment charges or need legal protection against an abuser, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provide experienced representation. We understand the sensitive nature of these matters and work diligently to protect your rights.
- Firm Founded: 1997
- Attorney Admitted In: Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York
- Contact: (888) 437-7747
- By Appointment Only
Understanding Harassment in Putnam County Courts
New York law provides specific protections against harassment. Under the Domestic Violence Law (DVL), a person may be charged with criminal harassment if they knowingly cause another to fear physical injury through repeated conduct or threats. In civil contexts, courts can issue protection orders under the Family Court Act or CPLR Article 51.
In Putnam County, cases are typically handled by the Supreme Court or Family Court depending on whether the matter involves a family relationship or general tort claims. The court evaluates evidence of intent and impact. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team appear regularly before these judges in Putnam County and surrounding areas.
Criminal Harassment Charges
Criminal harassment is a violation of New York Penal Law § 240.26.
Source: N.Y. Penal Law § 240.26 (Harassment). readable source
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
A defendant may face up to one year in jail for a first offense and up to three years for subsequent offenses. The prosecution must prove that the accused engaged in conduct intended to harass or annoy another person seriously enough to cause fear of physical injury.
Civil protection orders are available under New York Domestic Violence Law § 240.35.
Source: N.Y. Dom. Viol. Law § 240.35 (Protection Orders). readable source
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
If you have been a victim of harassment, you may petition the court for an order prohibiting further contact. The court considers factors such as the frequency of contact and whether threats were made. Results may vary.
Civil Harassment Claims (Tort Law)
Beyond criminal charges, victims can pursue civil claims for intentional infliction of emotional distress or invasion of privacy. These cases often require proof that the conduct was extreme and outrageous. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team evaluate each case to determine if it meets the legal threshold for relief under New York law.
Civil harassment claims may seek compensatory damages for emotional harm suffered by the victim.
Source: N.Y. Civil Practice Law & Rules (CPLR) regarding tort liability. readable source
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
The amount of recovery depends on the specific facts and evidence presented. Fees vary by case; contact us for a consultation to discuss potential costs.
Protection Orders and Restraining Orders
Petitions for protection orders must be filed with the appropriate court clerk’s office in Putnam County.
Source: N.Y. Family Court Act § 104 (Family Offenses). readable source
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
The process involves filing a petition and attending a hearing where both parties may present evidence. The judge decides whether to grant the order based on safety concerns. If granted, violations of the order can lead to criminal penalties.
Defending Against Harassment Accusations
If you are accused of harassment, it is critical to understand your rights before responding to charges or court orders. Misunderstandings about acceptable conduct can escalate quickly. Our attorneys review all communications and interactions relevant to the case to build an effective defense strategy.
Defense strategies may include challenging the intent element required by Penal Law § 240.26.
Source: N.Y. Penal Law § 240.26 (Harassment). readable source
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
We also explore whether alternative dispute resolution or mediation is appropriate to resolve underlying conflicts without litigation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What constitutes harassment under New York law?
Harassment involves repeated conduct intended to annoy, abuse, threaten, or alarm another person. It can include phone calls, texts, emails, social media messages, or physical presence that causes fear of harm.
Can I get a protection order if we are not in a domestic relationship?
Yes. While Family Court handles orders for family members, Supreme Court may issue civil harassment restraining orders against non-family members who engage in stalking-like behavior under CPLR Article 51.
How long does it take to get an emergency protection order?
The court schedules the hearing on its calendar. Emergency orders can be granted quickly if there is immediate danger, but timelines vary by case complexity and court scheduling.
What happens if I violate a protection order?
Violating a valid protection order is a criminal offense that can result in arrest, jail time, or fines. The specific penalties depend on whether it was a first violation or repeated conduct.
Do I need to hire a lawyer for harassment charges?
You are not legally required to hire a lawyer to face harassment charges, but legal guidance helps ensure your defense is done correctly and protects against procedural errors that could harm your case.
Can social media posts be used as evidence in harassment cases?
Yes. Social media messages can constitute written threats or patterns of conduct intended to harass. Courts often review digital communications carefully when determining intent.
What if the harassment involves stalking?
Stalking may elevate a harassment charge under Penal Law § 240.25, which carries more severe penalties. Our team evaluates whether your situation meets the criteria for enhanced charges.
How do I file for a protection order in Putnam County?
You must complete and submit forms to the court clerk’s office. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can assist with preparing these documents correctly so they are accepted by the judge.
What evidence should I gather before my hearing?
Gather any text messages, emails, voicemails, photographs of injuries, or witness statements that document the conduct alleged against you or your victim.
Is mediation available for harassment disputes?
In some cases involving non-family members, courts may encourage mediation to resolve conflicts without litigation. Availability depends on the specific court docket and judge preferences.
Can I represent myself in a protection order hearing?
You have the right to appear pro se, but legal representation often improves outcomes by ensuring proper procedure is followed and arguments are presented effectively.
What if the harassment involves workplace issues?
Workplace harassment claims may involve employment law principles alongside criminal or civil protections. Our attorneys evaluate whether multiple causes of action apply.
How do I find a lawyer for harassment cases in Putnam County?
Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your specific situation and schedule a consultation with Mr. Sris or his team.
To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Related Practice Areas
We maintain a local presence in the area. By appointment only.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
Results may vary.