If your neighbors are harassing you, it's time to take matters into your own hands. You don't need to live with harassment. One thing to remember is that minor instances of harassment can soon escalate to unbearable situations if the behavior isn't stopped. It can be frightening to think about confronting a belligerent neighbor, especially when they've shown a tendency towards violence, or are outwardly intimidating. However, if you want to live in peace, you'll need to get over your fear, and take immediate action. Here are four steps you need to take if you're being harassed by your neighbors.

Document the Harassment

When it comes to harassment, the first thing you need to do is document each instance of harassing behavior. Keep a journal outlining each encounter you have with the offending neighbor. If they damage your property, take pictures and videos of the damage. If they assault you with a verbal barrage of offensive and threatening words, try to record those encounters as well. You'll want as much evidence as possible when you take this to the next step.

Notify the Authorities

Once you've documented the harassment, you'll need to notify the authorities. Call your local police department and file an official complaint against your neighbors. Some of the harassment may fall under criminal law, especially if the harassment has included threats of violence against you, or physical damage to your property. Be sure to show the authorities any evidence you have to support your claims. Keep a copy of everything you provide to the police department. You'll need it if you have to proceed further.

Gather Witnesses

You might not know this, but your neighbors may be harassing others in the neighborhood. Discreetly begin speaking to other neighbors around you. Find out if they've either been victims of the same type of harassment, or perhaps they've witnessed the harassment you've been receiving. If you find any neighbors who are victims, or have witnessed the harassment, try to persuade them to come forward. There's strength in numbers when it comes to neighborhood harassment.

Seek Legal Advice

Seeking legal advice is the final step you need to take if your neighbor is harassing you. Depending on the severity of the harassment, your neighbor may be guilty of criminal and civil offenses against you. Let law enforcement handle the criminal aspect of the harassment. Rely on personal injury attorneys services for the compensation.