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Aggressive. Experienced.
Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney Former Cook County Felony Prosecutor
Harassment by Telephone
Charged with Harassment by Telephone in Chicago? Andrew M. Weisberg Can Defend Your Rights
Harassment by telephone is a serious offense under Illinois law, and being charged with this crime can lead to severe legal consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing charges of harassment by telephone in Chicago, it’s essential to have an experienced and aggressive defense attorney like Andrew M. Weisberg on your side to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
Understanding Harassment by Telephone in Illinois
Under Illinois law, specifically 720 ILCS 5/26.5-2, harassment by telephone occurs when an individual uses a telephone or any device that can transmit voice communication to intentionally harass, annoy, threaten, or intimidate another person. This can include:
Repeated Unwanted Calls: Making repeated phone calls with the intent to harass or annoy the recipient.
Threatening Calls: Using a telephone to convey threats of violence or harm to the recipient or their family.
Obscene or Indecent Communication: Sending or leaving obscene, lewd, or indecent messages via telephone.
Silent or Hang-Up Calls: Continuously making calls and hanging up without speaking, or making silent calls to cause distress.
Harassment by telephone can also include using devices like text messaging services, VoIP, or other voice communication technology to carry out the harassment. Illinois takes these offenses seriously, especially when the behavior causes significant distress to the victim.
Penalties for Harassment by Telephone in Chicago
The penalties for harassment by telephone in Illinois depend on the nature of the harassment and whether it is a repeat offense. However, the consequences can be significant:
Class B Misdemeanor: For a first-time offense, harassment by telephone is typically charged as a Class B misdemeanor, carrying a potential jail sentence of up to 6 months and fines of up to $1,500.
Class A Misdemeanor: If the harassment involves additional aggravating factors, such as repeated offenses, serious threats, or significant emotional distress to the victim, the charge may be elevated to a Class A misdemeanor. This carries a potential jail sentence of up to 1 year and fines of up to $2,500.
Class 4 Felony: In cases where the harassment involves a violation of an order of protection, the charge can be elevated to a Class 4 felony, carrying a potential prison sentence of 1 to 3 years and fines of up to $25,000.
Permanent Criminal Record: A conviction for harassment by telephone will result in a permanent criminal record, which can severely impact your ability to secure employment, housing, and other opportunities in the future.
Given these penalties, it is crucial to have a skilled and experienced defense attorney who can challenge the prosecution’s case and work to protect your future.
Why Choose Andrew M. Weisberg as Your Defense Attorney?
Andrew M. Weisberg is a seasoned criminal defense attorney with extensive experience handling cases involving harassment, stalking, and other related offenses. His background as a former Cook County prosecutor gives him unique insights into how these cases are built and prosecuted, allowing him to anticipate the prosecution’s strategies and develop a robust defense on your behalf.
When you choose Andrew as your defense attorney, you benefit from:
Comprehensive Legal Knowledge: Andrew’s thorough understanding of Illinois harassment laws ensures that your case will be handled with the utmost competence and care.
Aggressive Defense Strategies: Andrew is known for his relentless and proactive defense tactics, exploring every possible angle to protect your rights.
Personalized Attention: Andrew provides each client with individualized attention, ensuring that your specific circumstances and needs are fully addressed.
Defending Against Harassment by Telephone Charges in Chicago
Successfully defending against harassment by telephone charges requires a strategic and comprehensive approach. Andrew M. Weisberg will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your case, scrutinizing every piece of evidence and questioning the validity of the prosecution’s claims. Some potential defense strategies may include:
Lack of Intent: Harassment charges require proof that you knowingly and intentionally harassed, intimidated, or threatened the victim. If there is doubt about your intent, this could be a significant defense.
Mistaken Identity: If you were wrongly identified as the person responsible for the harassment, Andrew will work to uncover evidence that points to your innocence.
Context and Misunderstanding: In some cases, the context of the communication may have been misunderstood. Andrew will work to clarify the situation and demonstrate that no crime occurred.
Violation of Constitutional Rights: If your rights were violated during the investigation, arrest, or interrogation—such as through unlawful search, seizure, or coercion—Andrew may be able to have key evidence suppressed, weakening the prosecution’s case.
Andrew will work tirelessly to build a strong defense, aiming to reduce the charges, negotiate a favorable plea, or secure an acquittal.
The Importance of Early Legal Intervention
If you have been charged with harassment by telephone, it is crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Early intervention by a skilled attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Andrew M. Weisberg will take immediate action to protect your rights, gather evidence, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.
Andrew M. Weisberg: Committed to Your Defense
Facing charges of harassment by telephone can be overwhelming and stressful. Andrew M. Weisberg is committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation throughout the entire process. He will keep you informed at every stage, answer all your questions, and fight tirelessly to protect your rights and future.
Contact the Law Offices of Andrew M. Weisberg Today
If you have been arrested or charged with harassment by telephone in Chicago, don’t delay in seeking legal representation. Andrew M. Weisberg is available 24/7 to discuss your case and provide the immediate assistance you need.
Contact Andrew today for a free, confidential consultation:
Phone: Call (773) 908-9811 anytime, day or night.
Online: Fill out the Case Review form on our website, and we will get back to you promptly.
Remember, the sooner you have an experienced attorney on your side, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. Let Andrew M. Weisberg put his expertise to work for you.
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