Interference with Emergency Calls
Preventing or otherwise impeding a person from making an emergency call is a serious crime in Texas. Unfortunately, the offense does not come with light penalties. A conviction for the crime can include time in jail and required court fines that are thousands of dollars.
If you have been charged with interference with an emergency call, you are probably feeling very overwhelmed. To navigate this process with ease, you should contact an experienced Texas defense attorney immediately. During a stressful time, such as this, The Benken Law Firm can be your best resource.
Texas Interference with Emergency Calls Attorney
If you have been arrested for interfering with an emergency call, it is important you act quickly and receive the assistance of a skilled and knowledgeable criminal defense attorney in Texas. Thankfully, Houston defense lawyer Brian Benken at The Benken Law Firm has years of experience defending individuals charged with domestic violence accusations. He will diligently review evidence, form a strong defense, and do whatever is necessary to ensure you get the best possible outcome for your case.
Call (713) 223 - 4051 to schedule a free case consultation with The Benken Law Firm. Brian Benken represents clients in every community in Harris County and surrounding counties.
Information Center
- What is Interference with an Emergency Call?
- Penalties for Interference with Emergency Calls
- Additional Resources
What is Interference with an Emergency Call?
As stated previously, preventing someone from making an emergency call can result in a charge or arrest for interfering with an emergency call. According to Texas Penal Code 42.062, an individual can be charged with interference with an emergency call if he or she knowingly prevents or interferes with another individual’s ability to place an emergency call or request assistance.
This includes a request for assistance using an electronic communications device, in an emergency from a law enforcement agency, medical facility, or other agency which is primarily focused on providing safety to individuals.
Under Texas law, “emergency” is defined as a condition or circumstance where an individual, in fear of imminent assault, is requesting assistance.
Penalties for Interference with Emergency Calls
Being convicted of interference with an emergency call in Texas risks varying consequences, depending upon the circumstances present in any given case. Generally speaking, this crime is classified as a class A misdemeanor, unless the alleged offender has been previously convicted of the offense before. In such a case, interference with an emergency call is classified as a state jail felony.
Class A misdemeanors are punishable by a term of imprisonment of up to 1 year in jail and up to $4,000 in fines. Felonies in Texas are punishable by up to 2 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.
Additional Resources
Texas Statutes: Interference with Emergency Calls – Access the official website for the Texas Statutes to view section 42.062 which constitutes the Interference with Emergency Request for Assistance crime. You can view penalties and definitions for terms related to the offense.
Attorney General of Texas: Family Violence – Follow the link provided to visit the official website for the Attorney General of Texas which provides information regarding family violence. You can view important facts such as who are the victims of family violence, its effects, and more.
Houston Interference with Emergency Calls Lawyer | Harris County, TX
If you or someone you know has been charged with interference with an emergency call in TX, your freedom is at stake. Brian Benken at The Benken Law Firm can assess your case and determine the best possible defense to reduce or dismiss your charges. He has extensive experience with domestic violence charges and can outline all your legal options.
Brian Benken at The Benken Law Firm defends those with allegations at both the Harris County Criminal Court and Harris County District Courts and every nearby area including Houston, Sharpstown, Magnolia Park, River Oaks, and communities in surrounding counties. Call (713) 223 - 4051 to arrange a free consultation today.
