Harassment charges defense
Houston harassment charges defense :: The Law Office of Matthew D. Sharp
Fighting harassment accusations in the state of Texas will require the assistance of an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Charges of harassment can result in a criminal record that will last a lifetime. A harassment conviction can also lead to jail time and financial penalties.
Texas accusations of harassment charges
According to Section 42.07 of the Texas Penal Code, intentionally annoying, alarming, embarrassing or tormenting another person constitutes a criminal offense. Any of the following circumstances or actions may lead to a criminal complaint and harassment accusations:
- Using written, telephone or electronic communication to convey an obscene request, comment, proposal or suggestion
- Using written, telephone or electronic communication to alarm or threaten another person or family member concerning the infliction of a felony, property damage or bodily injury
- Falsely conveying a report that someone has suffered bodily injury or death
- Causing another person’s telephone to ring constantly or placing repeated or anonymous calls for the purpose of annoying, alarming, embarrassing or tormenting
- Intentionally failing to disengage a telephone connection or hang up the telephone
- Allowing the use of another person’s telephone to commit an act of harassment
- Initiating repeated communications for the purpose of annoying, alarming, embarrassing or tormenting another person
Harassment accusations penalties
Harassment is a Class B misdemeanor in the state of Texas. The punishment is up to six months in county jail and a fine of no more than $2,000. A second harassment conviction is punishable by up to one year in county jail and a fine of no more than $4,000.
Harassment defense
Behavioral disturbances can arise from family disputes, misunderstandings, divorce or other life circumstances. An experienced criminal defense attorney is prepared to defend the legal rights of a defendant and thoroughly investigate the evidence that led to the alleged criminal offense. A prompt and effective legal defense is the best way to bring about a reduction in charges or outright dismissal of a harassment case.
Disturbances should never be taken lightly. A criminal conviction of any kind can dramatically affect the ability of a criminal defendant to access desirable employment, educational programs and government services. There’s every reason to fight behavioral disturbances and maintain a clean criminal record.
