Legal Question in Criminal Law in Virginia

Harrassing Phone Calls

I was served an arrest warrant for making harrassing/threatening phone calls. It all started when an individual that was working on my car (while I was at work) was seen driving the car by another individual who proceeded to recklessly intimidate the driver of my vehicle and throw an unknown object at my car, causing scratches. The person who had permission to drive my car, placed a police report with the local police. After finding out about the damage made to my car and who had done it, I proceeded to call numbers I had for said perp to find out what was going on! As last resort, I called his mother's home and got the machine and, out of rage and frustration, left a message that was not so pleasant.

I am a first offender and I'd like to know what the process is for any/all court appearances for this matter as well as what kind of punishment I am looking at. There is a long history of emotional and physical issues between all parties involved and even recently, the perp has been arrested for assault....on his own parents! Should I attempt to defend myself? Should any past issues regarding perp's character & it's effect on me be brought up? Any chance a judge could dismiss this type of emotion-fueled, vindictive charge?


Asked on 4/07/04, 5:34 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael Hendrickson Law Office Michael E. Hendrickson

Re: Harrassing Phone Calls

Harassing phone calls, now referred to by some as "phone stalking" are now generally treated much more seriously these days by the courts and law enforcement than in times past. Therefore, it is very unlikely that the prosecutor(rather than the judge)would agree to allow the matter to be simply dismissed.

And, yes, you should definitely have competent defense counsel to represent you in this matter.

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Answered on 4/07/04, 7:49 pm


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