According to the Texas Penal Code, a person commits harassment in Texas if, with intent to harass, annoy, alarm, abuse, torment, or embarrass another, they:

• Initiate communication and make an obscene comment or request;

• Threaten to inflict bodily injury or commit a felony on a person, a member of the person’s family or household, or the person’s property;

• Intentionally alarm someone by falsely telling them that another person has suffered death or serious bodily injury;

• Anonymously call someone repeatedly or in a manner reasonably likely to harass, annoy, alarm, abuse, torment, embarrass, or offend them;

• Call someone and intentionally fail to hang up or disengage the connection;

• Send repeated electronic communications in a manner reasonably likely to harass, annoy, alarm, abuse, torment, embarrass, or offend another; or

• Knowingly allow someone to use a phone to commit one of the above offenses.

You can commit harassment in-person, as well as through text, phone call, email, or online communication.

Harassment is a Class B misdemeanor, which carries the following penalties:

• Up to 180 days in jail,

• Up to a $2,000 fine,

• A prohibition from having a License to Carry a weapon for five years,

The harassment offense may be increased to a Class A misdemeanor if:

• The person had a previous harassment conviction;

• The person harassed a minor, using an electronic device, with the intent that the child commit suicide or commit serious bodily injury; or

• The person harassed a minor, using an electronic device, when the person had previously violated a restraining order or injunction for cyberbullying.

In Texas, a Class A misdemeanor conviction carries heightened penalties:

• Up to a year in jail and

• Up to a $4,000 fine.

If you're facing a harassment charge in Texas, hiring a lawyer can be advantageous for several reasons:

• Understanding the Law: Texas harassment laws can be intricate. Our lawyers can explain the nuances of the statutes, possible defenses, and potential outcomes based on the specific facts of your case.
• Expert Advice: Our lawyer can provide guidance on whether to accept a plea deal, go to trial, or pursue other legal options.
• Navigating the Legal System: The legal process involves deadlines, paperwork, and specific protocols. We know how to efficiently move a case through the system and can handle procedural requirements.
• Protection of Rights: Our criminal defense attorneys ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process, including your right to remain silent and your right to a fair trial.
• Negotiation Skills: If there's an opportunity to negotiate with the prosecution (for a lesser charge or a reduced sentence, for example), our experienced lawyers can be invaluable.
• Defense Strategies: Our lawyers have training in constructing a strong defense, gathering evidence, and identifying weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
• Courtroom Experience: If your case goes to trial, our attorneys will know how to present your defense most effectively, including questioning witnesses, introducing evidence, and making persuasive arguments.