A stalking allegation: understanding the context
You are suspected of stalking. The legal assessment concerns the conduct and its circumstances as a whole. Counting messages alone does not establish every element of the allegation.
Duration: 1:38
Further reading and sources
This video summarises the main points. The full article provides more detail, exceptions and official sources. This information does not replace advice about your case.
Read the full articleSpoken transcript
Download the transcriptCriminal Law in the Netherlands.
You are suspected of stalking. The legal assessment concerns the conduct and its circumstances as a whole. Counting messages alone does not establish every element of the allegation.
Preserve the complete existing communication lawfully and without alteration. Note periods, channels and relevant events. Separate what you know from what you assume the other person intended.
A response from the other person does not automatically mean every further contact is wanted or permitted. Do not send more messages simply to obtain a favourable explanation of the allegation.
Ask your lawyer to distinguish a police conversation, a complaint and any formal contact restriction. Read the actual wording and applicable conditions rather than assuming they all have the same effect.
If a restriction applies, check what it covers. Do not use another account or another person to evade it. Discuss necessary practical communication with your lawyer through a permitted route.
Bring the relevant history and decisions to your lawyer. Discuss what is disputed and whether further information is needed. Do not pressure the other person or a witness to change a statement.
Read the full explanation on the Criminal Law in the Netherlands website.
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