Interfering with 911 Call in Westport Lawyer
Connecticut lawmakers have made it a criminal offense to interfere with someone’s attempt to call 911 for assistance. If you were accused of interfering with an emergency call, contact a top Westport lawyer for assistance.
Is Intent an Element of C.G.S. §53a-183b Interfering with an Emergency Call?
Yes. The crime of interfering with an emergency call, defined under Connecticut General Statutes (C.G.S.) §53a-183b requires someone to be acting with specific intent in order to be guilty. This offense occurs when someone acts in a way that “prevents or hinders” another person from completing or placing an emergency call to seek help or to report a crime. Even pure verbal interference may constitute a violation.
The part that is often hard to prove is that the action must be deliberately undertaken with the intent of preventing another person from “making or completing” a call to 911 or another emergency call. An interfering with 911 call in Westport lawyer could defend against the charges by showing that any hindering actions were undertaken accidentally or without the intent to disrupt the emergency call.
When Should I Contact a Westport Attorney?
As soon as possible. Those who quickly secure representation from a Westport interfering with a 911 call lawyer may substantially increase their likelihood of successfully defending against the charges. A strong defense is often based on evidence, and the best time to collect evidence is right after the event leading to the charges. An attorney could begin working right away to collect and preserve evidence to build a strong defense.
In addition, an experienced criminal lawyer could also provide advice to help prevent the individual accused of interference from making statements or taking actions that could be used against them later. An attorney could speak on behalf of the person accused at all stages of the proceedings.
What are the Consequences of an Interfering with an Emergency Call Conviction?
If the court convicts someone of violating C.G.S. §53a-183b, a class A misdemeanor, they may be subject to considerable criminal penalties, including up to one year in jail and a $2,000 fine.
However, the unofficial consequences may have even more of a detrimental effect. A criminal record is visible in background checks conducted by employers, landlords, and others and could prevent you from achieving many of your goals. An interfering with 911 call in Westport lawyer could work with you to minimize the negative consequences and fight for alternative penalties.
Consult an Interfering with 911 Call in Westport Attorney
Police and prosecutors give serious consideration to the crime of interfering with an emergency call, and you should too. Working with a Westport attorney with experience handling interfering with a 911 call cases could help you reach a positive outcome. For more information about your options for fighting the charges, check out our reviews on avvo.com and call Mark Sherman Law.