Not all threatening or abusive behavior comes from someone close to you. Sometimes, the harassment comes from a neighbor, coworker, roommate, or even a stranger. When that happens, and the behavior is ongoing or threatening, it may qualify as civil harassment—and you may be legally protected.
Here’s what you need to know about civil harassment, what behaviors qualify, how it differs from domestic violence, and how to protect yourself.
What Is Civil Harassment?
Civil harassment is a pattern of unwanted behavior that causes someone to feel scared, threatened, or seriously annoyed. It typically involves people outside your intimate or family relationships, such as:
- Neighbors
- Coworkers
- Strangers
- Former friends or acquaintances
- Roommates
- Online harassers
The key is that the behavior causes emotional distress or fear for your safety—and it happens more than once.
What Types of Behavior Count as Civil Harassment?
Civil harassment often includes a “course of conduct,” meaning two or more related incidents. Here are common examples:
- Verbal threats (e.g., “I’ll hurt you if you don’t stop.”)
- Stalking (physically following or digitally tracking someone)
- Unwanted communication (texts, emails, calls, or social media messages)
- Harassing behavior (banging on doors, trespassing, flashing lights, etc.)
- Sexual harassment (unwanted comments, gestures, or physical contact)
- Physical assault or battery
- Displaying offensive or hateful material
- Ongoing nuisance actions (e.g., repeatedly blocking your driveway or damaging your property)
How Is Civil Harassment Different from Domestic Violence?
While both can involve threats, abuse, or fear, the key difference is the relationship between the people involved:
| Civil Harassment | Domestic Violence |
| Involves non-intimate relationships | Involves intimate or close family relationships |
| Examples: neighbor, coworker, stranger | Examples: spouse, partner, parent, sibling |
| May not involve physical violence | Often includes physical, emotional, or financial abuse |
| Civil harassment restraining order applies | Domestic violence restraining order applies |
How to Protect Yourself from Civil Harassment
If you’re experiencing harassment, here are steps you can take to protect yourself:
- Document Everything
Keep records of incidents, including texts, voicemails, emails, or photos. Write down dates, times, and descriptions of events. - Avoid Contact
Do not engage with the harasser. Avoid responding to messages or confrontations. - Tell Someone
Notify your employer, landlord, school, or anyone who may be able to provide assistance or corroborate your claims. - Report to Law Enforcement
If you feel in danger, contact the police. They can file an incident report or conduct a welfare check. - Seek a Civil Harassment Restraining Order
If the harassment continues, you can ask the court for a restraining order to legally stop the behavior. This can prohibit the harasser from contacting you, coming near your home or workplace, or owning firearms.
Not Sure If You Have a Case?
If someone is making you feel unsafe or emotionally distressed and you’re unsure whether it qualifies as civil harassment, don’t wait.
Let’s help you understand your options and take the steps needed to protect yourself.