Check the civil and criminal general statutes in your state.

yeah…these things may vary between states…but i think that generally, a criminal stalker, one that commits a crimminal act against the people of the state, has a habit of stalking people so hes like a serial stalker, someone who has the tendency to habitually do this unlawful act to anybody at any time. Civil stalking on the other hand is a case between individuals, its just between the complainant and the accused such cases can be negotiated peacefully between the parties involved.im not sure if im missing anything, but i hope this helps.

I know from personal experience that you protective orders are often default when it comes to battered woman.  My good friend had a real nasty break up with his ex girlfriend.  During the break up she claimed that she was struck on her finger from a closing door.  Since she was living there they filled charges similar to spousal abuse.  We live in Texas so common law might have something to do with that.  At any rate the court ordered a protection order while they tried him for battery.  The funniest part of the entire situation was her consistant abuse of the protective order.  She would drive by his house and work on a daily basis.  It was the most retarded situation I have ever know someone to be in.  Word to the wise though…always take some sort of action and dont be like that dope and do nothing.  He never would defend himself in the proper manner and that how he ended up with a protective order and eventually a conviction for domestic abuse or whatever its called.  If that ever happens then you have to go to those counseling sessions about the damages for domestic abuse.  Now thats where you will find the real sleeze balls and the most horrific imagery you will ever see.

I agree that rules vary between states/countries, but stalking is considered to be a case even if he/she does not commit physical contact but much if they do. Stalking is a criminal act which can lead to some serious things.

To protect yourself from stalkers, know your rights and consult an attorney at http://www.personalinjurydefenders.com/ so you will know how to respond to such cases and some similar cases to related to this.