Stalking in Michigan is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Aggravated stalking is a felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. The charges are set by MCL 750.411h and 750.411i.
Reviewed by Attorney Kevin Bessant, Law Office of Kevin Bessant & Associates. Last reviewed October 2026.
Stalking at a glance
| Stalking | Misdemeanor: up to 1 year in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both (MCL 750.411h) |
|---|---|
| Stalking, minor victim | Felony: up to 5 years, a fine of up to $10,000, or both, when the victim was under 18 and the offender is at least 5 years older (MCL 750.411h) |
| Aggravated stalking | Felony: up to 5 years, a fine of up to $10,000, or both (MCL 750.411i(3)(a)) |
| Aggravated stalking, minor victim | Up to 10 years, a fine of up to $15,000, or both, when the victim was under 18 and the offender is at least 5 years older (MCL 750.411i(3)(b)) |
| What makes it aggravated | Qualifying circumstances include stalking in violation of a restraining order or after a prior stalking conviction (MCL 750.411i(2)) |
How does a stalking case move through court?
- Arraignment and bond conditions, often with no contact.
- Preliminary examination for felony charges.
- Resolution by dismissal, reduction, plea, or trial.
What matters in the defense
- A pattern of conduct. The prosecutor must prove repeated conduct, not a single contact.
- Intent and effect. What the conduct was meant to do and how it affected the complainant.
- Proof of contact. Messages, call logs, and social media records must be tied to you.
- The order. For aggravated stalking, whether a valid order covered you. See PPO violation.
Related pages: domestic violence and misdemeanor or felony offense.
Frequently asked questions
Is stalking a felony in Michigan?
Basic stalking is a misdemeanor with up to 1 year in jail. Aggravated stalking under MCL 750.411i is a felony with up to 5 years in prison.
What makes stalking aggravated?
Examples in the statute include stalking in violation of a restraining order and stalking after a prior conviction under the stalking statutes.
Talk to a Detroit stalking charge attorney
Call Attorney Kevin Bessant at 313-658-8159 for a free consultation.
Legal Authority
See MCL 750.411h and MCL 750.411i in the Michigan Legislature’s text. This page is general information, not legal advice.