Being charged with stalking in Tennessee is a serious matter that can carry life-altering consequences. Stalking is more than just following someone—it can include repeated contact, harassment, or behavior that causes another person to feel threatened, intimidated, or unsafe. A conviction not only carries criminal penalties but can also affect employment, housing, reputation, and family relationships.
At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we represent individuals across East and Middle Tennessee who are facing stalking allegations and related charges.
What Is Stalking Under Tennessee Law?
According to Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-17-315, stalking occurs when a person engages in a course of conduct directed at a specific individual that causes them to:
- Feel terrorized, frightened, intimidated, threatened, harassed, or molested; and
- That conduct would cause a reasonable person to feel the same way.
This can include:
- Repeated unwanted phone calls, texts, or emails
- Following someone to their home, workplace, or school
- Showing up uninvited at events or places the person frequents
- Using social media or technology to monitor, contact, or harass
Types of Stalking Charges
Tennessee law classifies stalking into several categories:
- Stalking – A Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and fines up to $2,500.
- Aggravated Stalking – Charged when stalking involves a deadly weapon, the victim is under 18, or the defendant has a prior stalking conviction. This is typically a Class E or Class C felony.
- Especially Aggravated Stalking – Involves serious injury, credible threats of harm, or stalking in violation of a protective order. This is often a Class C or Class B felony, with penalties including several years in prison. `
Consequences of a Stalking Conviction
In addition to potential jail or prison time, fines, and probation, a stalking conviction can lead to:
- Protective orders restricting contact with the alleged victim
- Loss of firearm rights
- Mandatory counseling or treatment programs
- Permanent criminal record impacting jobs, professional licenses, and housing
Defenses to Stalking Charges
Stalking charges often arise from complicated personal relationships, and the line between unwanted contact and criminal conduct isn’t always clear. Potential defenses may include:
- Lack of intent – The conduct was not intended to cause fear or intimidation.
- Insufficient evidence – The prosecution cannot prove a pattern of conduct.
- False allegations – Charges made in the context of disputes, breakups, or custody battles.
- Constitutional violations – If your rights were violated during the investigation or arrest.
An experienced defense attorney can evaluate your case, challenge weak evidence, and work to minimize or dismiss the charges.
How Champagne Law Firm Can Help
At Champagne Law Firm, we understand the serious impact stalking charges can have on your life. Our attorneys:
- Investigate the facts and circumstances of your case
- Build strong defenses to challenge the prosecution’s claims
- Work to protect your record, your freedom, and your reputation
- Seek dismissal, reduced charges, or alternatives such as diversion programs where appropriate
With offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we represent clients across East and Middle Tennessee—including Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Dandridge, Morristown, Jefferson City, Newport, Maryville, and Townsend.
Contact Us
If you’ve been charged with stalking in Tennessee, the consequences can be severe—but you don’t have to face them alone. Contact Champagne Law Firm today at 865-228-8080 or reach out online to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced Tennessee criminal defense attorney.
