Stalking, Protection Orders, Libel/Slander

[LannyBo]

She lives in RI, I live in MA

A former friend has threatened to get an order of protection against me for stalking. I have not stalked her in any way. Her boyfriend has lied to her about a number of things and I'm afraid that they will file for a protection order based on his lies. She has threatened me personally with this and mentioned that she knew that it would affect my job because of the government nature of my job. I am truly afraid that she might do this and am trying to figure out what I can do to protect myself. I am not sure how easy it is to get a protection order against someone who is not a domestic partner in any way. Does anyone know what the burden of proof is? Also, if they do this, any thoughts on Libel or Slander cases? If this frivolous lawsuit goes through, it will possibly affect my job, my livelihood. I don't want to get her before she gets me or anything like that, I just want to prevent this from going through, or know how to defend myself against this.

 

[moburkes]

US Law Only - WHEN POSTING A QUESTION, YOU MUST INCLUDE THE NAME OF YOUR STATE

 

[LannyBo]

sorry...

I realized as soon as I posted it and changed it. Since the accuser lives in RI, I assume any paperwork would be filed there if she choses to continue with this...

 

[quincy]

The best way to prevent any action against you is to have no contact with her at all, and stay away from where she resides. Do not answer the phone if she calls, and do not call her. Do not email her or send her anything at all. Leave her alone entirely. No contact at all. Period.

If she lives in Rhode Island and you live in Massachusetts, and you stay out of Rhode Island and away from her and have no contact whatsoever with her, the chances of your ex-girlfriend getting a PPO against you is negligible. Stalking laws generally cover genuine, continued harassment, and immediate threats to one's safety by continued contact. PPO's are issued when there is proof of threats and there is a risk of harm occurring.

There really isn't a defamation action here.