When tensions run high, emotions can take over, and decisions made in the heat of the moment can have serious legal consequences. Interference with an emergency phone call is a charge that often arises from domestic disputes, misunderstandings, or chaotic situations where someone tries to control what happens next.
However, Texas law takes this offense seriously, and what may have felt like a minor argument can quickly turn into a criminal case. Even if no one was physically harmed, preventing someone from calling for help – even unintentionally – can lead to arrest, prosecution, and life-altering penalties.
At M|C Criminal Law, we know that every case has two sides. If you’ve been charged with interfering with an emergency phone call, you need a legal team that understands how to challenge the evidence and present your story in the strongest possible way. Let us help you protect your future.
Under the Texas Penal Code, Section 42.062, it is a crime to knowingly prevent or interfere with someone’s ability to make an emergency phone call or request help from law enforcement, medical services, or another agency dedicated to public safety or to recklessly make a device unusable that would be used to request emergency assistance.
In simple terms, this law makes it illegal to stop someone from calling 911 or reaching out for emergency assistance. This can include grabbing a phone out of someone’s hands, destroying a device they were about to use, or using threats or intimidation to stop them from making the call.
Texas takes this offense seriously, especially in cases involving domestic disputes. Many interference charges arise during heated arguments between family members or partners, where one person tries to prevent the other from calling for help. Even if no physical harm occurs, blocking an emergency call can still lead to criminal charges.
However, there are specific elements that the prosecution needs to prove, so understanding these elements is crucial for creating a defense strategy.
To convict someone of interference with an emergency phone call or request for assistance, the prosecution must prove key elements beyond a reasonable doubt. Beyond proving that the alleged actions themselves happened, the prosecution must also show that the accused acted knowingly or recklessly.
‘Knowingly’ means they were aware of their actions and understood the consequences. For example, if someone grabs a phone out of another person’s hands to stop them from calling 911, they are acting knowingly.
‘Recklessly’ means acting with disregard for the potential consequences. If someone, in the heat of an argument, throws a phone against the wall and breaks it – preventing an emergency call – they could be charged even if they didn’t specifically intend to interfere.
Additionally, the call must have been for an emergency, meaning the caller reasonably believed they were in imminent danger of harm or property damage. Without proof of these elements, the charge may not hold up in court.
Interference with an emergency phone call is typically a Class A misdemeanor in Texas, carrying penalties of up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000. If the accused has a prior conviction for the same offense, the charge increases to a state jail felony, punishable by 180 days to two years in state jail and a fine of up to $10,000.
Beyond criminal penalties, a conviction can have serious personal consequences, especially if the case involves family violence. Many interference charges stem from domestic disputes, and a conviction can impact child custody, restraining orders, and future employment opportunities. A criminal record for a domestic-related offense can also lead to restrictions on firearm ownership.
Because these charges often arise from highly emotional situations, it is crucial to have a strong legal defense to avoid life-changing consequences. Our domestic violence defense attorneys understand the impact these charges can have and can provide the robust defense you need.
At M|C Criminal Law, our experienced criminal defense attorneys are dedicated to protecting the rights of those facing interference with an emergency call charges. With a deep understanding of Texas criminal law and the complexities of domestic violence cases, we craft strong defense strategies aimed at reducing or dismissing charges whenever possible.
Our legal team knows that these cases often stem from misunderstandings or emotionally charged situations. We thoroughly investigate the circumstances, challenge weak evidence, and advocate aggressively for our clients in and out of the courtroom.
If you or a loved one has been charged with interfering with an emergency call, don’t face the legal system alone. Contact M|C Criminal Law today for a confidential consultation and let us fight to protect your rights, your future, and your freedom.
