Expert Online Harassment Lawyer: Your Trusted London Lawyers

Welcome to PAIL Solicitors, a leading media and communications law firm based in London. Our dedicated team of online harassment solicitors specialise in addressing complex legal issues related to online harassment. If you need expert legal representation, particularly in cases concerning online harassment, you’ve come to the right place.

Why Choose a Specialised Lawyer?

Choosing a specialised lawyer for online harassment cases is vital for several reasons. Firstly, online harassment law is intricate and ever-evolving, making it essential to work with someone well-versed in the latest legal frameworks and precedents. Our firm’s 16 years of focused experience in this niche means we bring a depth of knowledge that general practitioners may lack. Additionally, a specialised lawyer is equipped to handle the sensitive nature of these cases, offering a compassionate approach that recognises the emotional toll of harassment. An experienced online harassment lawyer possesses the skills to effectively gather evidence, navigate complex online platforms, and advocate for their clients’ rights with authority. By choosing us, you are ensuring that your case is handled by someone who is not only knowledgeable but also deeply committed to achieving the best possible outcome.

Overview of Services Provided

At our London-based firm, we offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to address all aspects of online harassment.

Our services include:

- Legal Consultation: We provide initial consultations to discuss your situation and inform you of your rights and options.

- Case Assessment: Our team conducts thorough investigations into the specifics of your case, assessing the nature and extent of the harassment.

- Legal Representation: We represent you in both criminal and civil proceedings, advocating for protection orders, damages, and other legal remedies.

- Evidence Gathering: We are skilled at collecting and preserving digital evidence, which is critical in these cases.

- Support for Related Claims: If applicable, we assist with claims for defamation, breaches of privacy, and copyright infringement, ensuring a holistic approach to your case.

Our 16 years of experience uniquely positions us to tackle even the most challenging online harassment cases, providing you with the dedicated legal support you deserve. If you’re seeking assistance in this area, we invite you to reach out and explore how we can help.

What is Online Harassment?

• Criminal Online Harassment

Online harassment involves conduct intended to cause distress to another individual. This can include cases of online defamation, copyright infringement, and breaches of privacy, where the behaviour may not necessarily be distressing but can lead to significant financial hardship or emotional suffering. Such behaviour is characterised by a credible threat or troubling aspect. Offenders found guilty under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997 (the Act) may face imprisonment for up to six months and potentially a restraining order under Section 5, which, if breached, can lead to five years in jail. Additionally, cyberstalking can result in prosecution under the Malicious Communications Act 1988 and the Communications Act 2003.

• Stalking

Stalking is an aggravated form of online harassment, wherein the stalker persistently shadows the victim. This can manifest in the physical world, such as following the victim or making repeated phone calls, or in cyberspace through the continuous posting of derogatory remarks, the unauthorised use of images, or disparaging videos. Stalkers often monitor the victim's online presence and contribute to harmful discussions whenever they find relevant information, regardless of its nature. It's important to note that while companies can be stalkers, they cannot be victims of harassment.

• The Liability Test

Under the (s2 the Act), the liability test is objective. A defendant may be deemed to have known that their conduct amounted to harassment if a reasonable person possessing the same information would view it as such (S1(2)the Act). A course of conduct must consist of more than a single act. Given that many who engage in online harassment may struggle with mental health issues, an objective test is appropriate, as these individuals often do not recognise their behaviour as harassment.

• Civil Online Harassment

Victims of online harassment have the right to sue for damages (covering pain, suffering, and financial loss) and may seek a restraining order, costs, and interest under (S3 the Act. The liability test used in civil cases mirrors that of criminal harassment but operates on a "balance of probabilities," placing a lower burden of proof on the victim,

Online harassment involves conduct intended to cause distress to another individual. This can include online defamation, copyright infringement, and privacy breaches, where the behaviour may not necessarily be distressing but can lead to significant financial hardship or emotional suffering. Such behaviour is characterised by a credible threat or troubling aspect. Offenders found guilty under (S2) may face imprisonment for up to six months and potentially a restraining order under Section 5, which, if breached, can lead to five years in jail. Additionally, cyberstalking can result in prosecution under the Malicious Communications Act 1988 and the Communications Act 2003.

Start Fighting Back Now!

A common misconception is that online deviant behaviour is localised, but the reality is starkly different. The Internet has allowed anyone, not just celebrities, to gain widespread visibility. Anyone with a significant online presence—be it a popular blogger or social media influencer—can become a target of harassment from anyone around the globe, leading to instantaneous global impact. If you are a victim of online harassment or need legal guidance concerning internet content takedown, our specialised online harassment lawyer is here to help. Contact us to book a face-to-face consultation. Please note that our charge rates may vary. Learn more about online harassment from our blog articles.

For a quotation, please contact us at (020) 7305-7491 or peter@pailsolicitors.co.uk. We would be delighted to assist you. Mr Peter Adediran is the owner and principal solicitor at PAIL® Solicitors. Subscribe to our newsletter to get blog post updates and other information about the firm straight to your inbox.