Legal Question in Criminal Law in New York

One of my friends is threatening to get me "kicked out of school." This is totally out of the blue. He lives in Washington state and I live in New York. I have not seen him in around two years and we keep in touch through facebook and texting.

He has not explicitly stated how he plans on getting me kicked out, but I fear he will contact my school and give them false information. If he proceeds, is there anything I can do - like sue for defamation? I have not done anything illegal and I have not done anything to warrant my removal from my college. I go to a small school, and fear that if this person starts causing drama in my life, my academic reputation will be ruined.

Also, what are the penalties for defamation? Thank you.


Asked on 1/21/11, 11:50 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Joel Salinger Law Office of Joel R. Salinger

The only thing you can do is to respond to any allegation made and be prepared to deal with any contingency. Keeping a record of the e-mails, facebook and other communication to prove the intent. Consult with a local lawyer.

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Answered on 1/27/11, 5:43 am
peter bark bark & karpf

assuming this threat was sent to you directly, your "friend' is guilty of Aggravated Harassment, a misdemeanor. I don't know if the police will think it's serious enough to get involved. Besides calling the police, I would go to your school authorities and bring it to their attention. I would also warn him that if there is any further communication you will report it to the police a nd also sue for defamation. A letter to him from a lawyer might scare him away.

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Answered on 1/27/11, 5:58 am


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