What Evidence Do You Need to Prove Harassment in New Jersey?

If you are seeking a restraining order, you will need to present evidence that demonstrates to a fact-finder that you are the victim of harassment. Any paper trail showing your harasser’s interactions, along with social media posts and witness testimony, can be beneficial when attempting to prove that the individual intended to cause you emotional distress.

In this blog, our Cherry Hill restraining order attorneys discuss what evidence is typically used to demonstrate harassing behaviors and what needs to be shown in order for the court to issue a final restraining order.

E-mails, Text Messages, and Other Correspondence

People are often careful about what they say, but they may not exercise as much restraint in what they write. If you have received suggestive e-mails, text messages, or private messages, it is important that you save these messages as they may be used as evidence at a later date. Any type of correspondence is admissible at trial as long as the document can be verified.

Social Media Posts

If there are posts from your harasser containing offensive or derogatory comments, this can be used as evidence in seeking a protective order. Be aware that your harasser may attempt to erase any trace of these interactions once they learn they are under investigation. A word to the wise: Be sure to take screenshots of these posts when you see them appear on your social media feed before your aggressor has the opportunity to delete them.

Witness Statements

Suppose you have a close friend, family member, or roommate that has seen evidence of your aggressor alarming or annoying you, this testimony can speak volumes. A witness can provide a glimpse into the illicit behavior from an impartial perspective, allowing a judge or jury to make a well-informed decision. A witness that appears confident will build rapport with a jury, further influencing their verdict.

Evidence to Obtain a Final Restraining Order

A temporary restraining order (TRO) can be issued in an emergency situation to keep an offender from harming you or your child. To obtain a final restraining order (FRO), you must provide convincing evidence of the other party’s harassment. The more pertinent evidence you can present, the better your chances of obtaining a FRO. A FRO is permanent, with the court being the only entity that can change the order in the future.

As the victim, you must be present at the FRO hearing, although your harasser does not need to be present. The judge can make a ruling as long as there is evidence that your harasser received notice of the hearing.

Aggressive Representation to Safeguard Your Interests

At The Law Offices of Christopher St. John, we understand that harassment covers a broad range of behaviors. No matter the form of harassment you have been dealing with, it can leave you feeling uneasy and scared of what to expect next. If you have been the victim of harassment, our legal team can help put the unwanted contact of your harasser behind you by assisting you in obtaining a restraining order. If you have relevant evidence to demonstrate the harassment, the process of securing a protective order will likely be streamlined.

Facing Harassment? Contact Our Cherry Hill Restraining Order Attorneys Today

Harassment is considered any type of behavior meant to offend, alarm, or annoy someone. Nobody should feel uncomfortable in their own home, walking around a college campus, or moving about the world. If you have been the subject of harassment, The Law Offices of Christopher St. John would like to provide you relief. To schedule your complimentary consultation with one of our Cherry Hill restraining order lawyers, contact us online or by phone today.