Cyberbullying Laws Take Effect in Michigan

Effective March 27th new cyberbullying laws have been implemented in the state of Michigan. A rise in the use of social media has moved traditional bullying to the world of computers. The new law seeks to deter that behavior. 

What is Cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying includes one or more of the following:

  • Communicating through social media the intent to threaten violence towards another or make the individual fearful for their well-being or death.
  • Publishing a threat on social media that is intended to be viewed by the victim as a threat.
  • A pattern of behavior/language on public media that is harassing and intimidating toward another.

Social media sites where the bullying occurs includes Twitter, Facebook, Snapchat, and Instagram. Cyberbullying can also take place via text or email.

Cyberbullying Penalties

Cyberbullying is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 93 days in jail, a $500 fine, or both.

A cyberbullying conviction with a prior cyberbullying conviction can increase the penalty of the misdemeanor to 1 year in jail, a $1,000 fine, or both.

Cyberbullying can also be a felony.

Cyberbullying resulting in serious injury to a person is a felony, punishable by up to 5 years in prison, a $5,000 fine, or both.

Where cyberbullying result in the death of a person, the charge is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison, a $10,000 fine, or both.

Call us

Call Sam Bernstein at 734-883-9584 or e-mail at bernstein@arborypsilaw.com.

Sam Bernstein is an Ann Arbor lawyer.

ArborYpsi Law is located at 2750 Carpenter Rd #2 Ann Arbor, MI 48108.

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Have You Been Charged with Cyberbullying?

With new laws coming out comes inappropriate allegations. If you have been wrongly charged with cyberbullying call Arbor Ypsi Law specializing in criminal law. Arbor Ypsi Law also specializes in DUI charges, assault and battery, animal cruelty, retail fraud, home invasion, drug possession, sexual assault, license restorations, traffic tickets, expungements and domestic assault. Call Sam Bernstein, a criminal defense attorney, today to assist with your legal needs.

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