Legal Information

Stalking is a pattern of behavior directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to feel fear. It is often misunderstood, minimized or missed entirely. Victims need support documenting the stalking behaviors, safety planning, and how to engage in risk-reduction.

Safety: Protection Orders
Most stalking victims are stalked by someone they know, often a former or current intimate partner. No relationship requirement is needed in order to apply for a civil anti-harassment protection order (RCW 10.14). The victim can apply for the civil anti-harassment order by showing a continuing pattern of conduct, demonstrated by the perpetrator that is meant to annoy and harass the victim.

Criminal Matters
Stalking is also considered a crime in WA, (RCW 9A.46.110), yet is underreported. Victims need support and advocacy in the criminal legal system.

Employment
Many stalking victims report that they lost time from work due to the stalking and that the stalker interfered with their employment and ability to obtain or maintain employment because of the interference.

Privacy and Confidentiality
Victims may express fear that people will find out private information about her/him or about the stalking behavior. Many victims want to protect their privacy as much as possible because the perpetrator uses information to further stalk them. This includes limiting the number of people who know about the stalking, keeping their names out of public documents, including newspapers, and keeping medical and counseling records confidential.

Housing
Victims may need safe housing or shelter in order to hide from their stalker. A victim may need assistance moving, getting out of a lease agreement, or relocating to another state.

For more legal information, visit Washington LawHelp, Legal Voice, Sexual Violence Law Center or Washington State Bar Association