Cyberbullying crimes continue to rise year after year as using the internet and electronic devices has become more necessary to complete work and school assignments. Furthermore, we are all more likely to access the internet for our hobbies and other free time, as this allows us to access streaming services, learning platforms, informational articles and blogs, and other helpful resources and tools. Given the time we all spend online, it shouldn’t surprise us that more bullying occurs over the internet.
But when does cyberbullying become a crime? After all, bullying behavior at a child’s school or in the workplace doesn’t necessarily constitute a crime until a certain threshold. This threshold may be slightly different when it occurs online, and we can help delineate where this boundary lies. If you need help understanding cyberbullying crimes, a lawyer from Hayes Law, PLLC can provide you with helpful information, resources, tools, and strategies you can apply to your circumstances.
When Does Cyberbullying Turn into a Crime in New Hampshire?
Typically, New Hampshire does not address cyberbullying or bullying on a state government level, meaning in most instances, it will not result in consequences. However, if cyberbullying turns into a form of harassment, additional action may take place.
For example, if someone exchanges sexually explicit photos and messages with a minor, this may result in harsh consequences. These penalties may include fines, jail time, restricted access to children, requirements to report as a sex offender, and other court-ordered actions.
What Should You Do if Someone Accuses You of Online Harassment in New Hampshire?
If someone accuses you of online harassment in New Hampshire and tries to take legal action against you, what should you do next? It’s difficult to discern what steps and strategies to follow, especially if you’re working alone. These suggestions may help you protect your rights, reduce potential consequences, and maintain a sense of normalcy in your everyday life.
Collect Relevant Information
Collecting relevant information about these charges is a great place to start when facing accusations. We recommend you hold onto text chats, screenshots, and other exchanges for analysis, as you may be able to defend certain circumstances with solid defenses and arguments. However, we suggest you work with a lawyer during collection, analysis, argument building, and most of the legal process for better results.
Stay Offline
It’s best to stay off social media platforms and accounts during any legal matters. Anything you post publicly—including text, comments, and photos—will be used against you in legal settings. And when you have already been charged with online bullying or harassment, these posts could be detrimental to your case, even if your accounts are private or feel unrelated to the case. Instead, we recommend logging out of or disabling your accounts to avoid related temptations.
Speak With a Lawyer
If you are accused of online harassment or cyberbullying, you should work with a defense attorney with experience in harassment and bullying. Your lawyer can help you in several ways throughout the process, including joining and leading investigations, handling insurance and other legal representatives, and completing and filing paperwork on your behalf.
A lawyer will likely be able to represent you fairly and favorably, reduce or eliminate your penalties, and bring you successful results. It’s best to partner with a lawyer as soon as possible to further improve your opportunities for favorable results and representation.
Charged for Cyberbullying in New Hampshire? Work With a Defense Attorney From Hayes Law, PLLC
If someone accuses you of cyberbullying and is taking legal action against you, you may benefit from working with a lawyer from Hayes Law, PLLC. Our cyberbullying defense attorney has extensive experience in criminal law, including circumstances that might include cyberbullying. Clients all over New Hampshire trust us to bring them fantastic results, and we can provide you with similar support and services.
Please feel free to contact us if you want to discuss your legal matters, express any concerns, gather additional helpful information, and protect your rights. You can reach us by calling (603) 821-9438 or completing our online contact form at your earliest convenience. We look forward to hearing from you and defending your case.
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