How is harassment defined in a legal context?

In a legal context, harassment is defined as intentional actions that harass or annoy another person. This definition is crucial because it emphasizes the intention behind the actions, distinguishing harassment from unintentional behavior or mere conflicts. Intentionality is key in establishing whether an individual's behavior constitutes harassment, as it implies that the actions were deliberate, aimed at causing discomfort, distress, or intimidation to the victim.

Understanding this distinction helps clarify that while annoying behavior can be bothersome, it crosses into the realm of harassment when there is a clear intent to disturb or harm another person. This legal definition is vital for establishing grounds for complaints and legal actions, as it provides a framework for identifying behaviors that go beyond simple disagreements or misunderstandings.