Stalking Lawyer in Baltimore County, Maryland | Shepard Law
Experienced Defense Against Stalking Charges in Towson and Baltimore County
If you or a loved one has been charged with stalking in Baltimore County, Maryland, you face a serious misdemeanor offense under Maryland Criminal Law § 3-802 that can carry significant jail time, substantial fines, and long-term collateral consequences. Stalking charges often involve allegations of a repeated course of conduct that causes another person to fear for their safety or suffer substantial emotional distress. These cases are prosecuted aggressively in Baltimore County District and Circuit Courts and can profoundly affect employment, housing, professional licensing, personal relationships, and reputation.
At Shepard Law in Towson, principal attorney Stephen P. Shepard provides client-centered and compassionate criminal defense representation to individuals facing stalking charges throughout Baltimore County. With more than a decade of dedicated service defending clients in Towson, Essex, Catonsville, and surrounding communities, our firm focuses on understanding your unique circumstances and protecting your future with thoughtful, personalized advocacy.
Take the Next Step – Contact Shepard Law Today
A stalking charge in Baltimore County requires prompt, compassionate legal guidance. The earlier you reach out, the better we can protect your rights and explore all available options.
Call Shepard Law at (410) 648-4008 or complete our secure online contact form for a free, confidential consultation. We also offer jail visits for a fee when needed. Attorney Stephen P. Shepard is prepared to listen carefully to your story, explain your rights, and provide the client-centered and compassionate representation you deserve under Maryland Criminal Law § 3-802.
What Is Stalking Under Maryland Criminal Law § 3-802?
Maryland law defines stalking as engaging in a course of conduct that the person knows or reasonably should know would cause another reasonable person to:
- Fear for their safety or the safety of a third person, or
- Suffer substantial emotional distress.
A “course of conduct” typically involves repeated actions such as following, approaching, pursuing, surveilling, contacting, or communicating with the alleged victim in a manner that alarms or annoys them. The statute requires proof that the conduct was intentional or reckless and lacked a legitimate purpose. Isolated incidents generally do not qualify as stalking.
The law balances protection of victims with important constitutional safeguards, including First Amendment rights to free speech and association.
Penalties for Stalking in Baltimore County
Stalking is a misdemeanor in Maryland. A conviction may result in:
- Imprisonment for up to 5 years
- Fines up to $5,000
- Or both
Courts may also impose probation, no-contact orders, counseling, or other conditions. A stalking conviction creates a permanent criminal record with serious collateral consequences, including barriers to employment, housing, professional licenses, and firearm rights.
Strong Defenses to Stalking Charges
At Shepard Law, we thoroughly investigate every stalking case to build a thoughtful defense strategy tailored to your situation. Common and effective defenses include:
- Lack of a qualifying “course of conduct”
- No intent or knowledge that the conduct would cause fear or emotional distress
- Legitimate purpose for the communications or actions
- Insufficient evidence or credibility issues with the complaining witness
- Constitutional protections (free speech, association, or other rights)
- False allegations or misunderstandings
Stephen P. Shepard approaches each case with care and attention, working closely with clients to develop the most appropriate path forward—whether through negotiation for dismissal, reduction of charges, or trial.
Why Choose Shepard Law for Stalking Defense in Baltimore County
Stephen P. Shepard is a respected Baltimore County criminal defense attorney recognized by Super Lawyers as a “Rising Star,” Avvo with a 10.0 “Superb” rating, Martindale-Hubbell as a “Client Champion Platinum,” and The National Trial Lawyers as a “Top 40 Under 40.” He is an active member of the Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys Association and regularly appears in Baltimore County courts.
Our Towson office, located at 303 W. Pennsylvania Avenue, Towson, MD 21204, serves clients across Baltimore County. At Shepard Law, you receive client-centered and compassionate representation focused on your individual needs and long-term well-being.
Take the Next Step – Contact Shepard Law Today
Call Shepard Law at (410) 648-4008 or complete our secure online contact form for a free, confidential consultation. We also offer jail visits for a fee when needed. Attorney Stephen P. Shepard is prepared to listen carefully to your story, explain your rights, and provide the client-centered and compassionate representation you deserve.
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