Delray Beach, FL asked in Criminal Law and Civil Litigation for Florida

Q: I broke up with my girlfriend 1 1/2 months ago. I stated that I want no contact from her. She respected that until

Today. She sent me a card with a money order for $40 that she owes me. I called her and told her that I want no more contact and I told her that I’m sending the $40 back. She emailed me that now she wants no more contact from me. Can I still mail her back the $40 with no letter or anything else without it being harassment? Is that considered contact? I just want to mail her $40. Would doing so be considered harassment or can I send her the $40 which I really want to do and then never contact her again.

2 Lawyer Answers
Michael Fayard
Michael Fayard
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Sarasota, FL
  • Licensed in Florida

A: In Florida, “harass” means to engage in a course of conduct directed at a specific person which causes substantial emotional distress to that person and serves no legitimate purpose. I don't the act of sending the money back to her would rise to the level of causing substantial emotional distress, but it is unnecessary at this point. It's your money. Keep it. And there is no need to further escalate the situation.

Here's a better idea for the money: Why don't you use the $40 for something productive? Put it in a tip jar at your favorite, local spot. Or order carry-out from a small business. Break-ups are difficult as it is, but the times are tougher right now. Use this opportunity to take the high road and do something positive.

Bruce Alexander Minnick agrees with this answer

Henry George Ferro
Henry George Ferro
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Ocala, FL
  • Licensed in Florida

A: Both of you need to grow up and start acting like adults...give the forty dollars to a needy person or entity...and stop acting like an oversized baby...

For the legal question...your sending the forty dollars back is not a harrassment.

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