What Counts as Harassment in Tennessee?

 Posted on June 27, 2025 in Criminal Defense

Harassment can take various forms, and if you are accused of this offense, you could face jail time and a criminal record. When facing harassment charges, a Knox County, TN criminal defense attorney can protect your rights in a court of law.

A criminal record is something to avoid at all costs. At Jeffrey Coller, Knoxville Criminal Defense Attorney, we understand the gravity of a harassment accusation, and we can review your case to determine your best defense strategy. Oftentimes, digging deep into the legal definition of harassment can help your case.

Can Verbal or Written Threats Result in Criminal Charges?

Putting another person in fear for his or her physical safety can be charged as harassment. Under Tennessee law, the definition of harassment includes "communicating a threat to another person" in any context. To qualify as harassment, this communication must be intended as a threat of harm. Moreover, the law states that a "reasonable person" would understand the communication to be a threat of harm.

Intent is an important factor in prosecuting a harassment charge. If the prosecution cannot prove that you intentionally harassed the alleged victim, this may help your case. At Jeffrey Coller, Knoxville Criminal Defense Attorney, we can review the evidence closely and argue on your behalf in court.

Does Harassment Have to Involve a Threat?

Not all harassment charges need to involve a direct threat to somebody’s safety or health. The statute for harassment in Tennessee provides another definition that includes communication with the intent to "annoy, offend, alarm, or frighten" the recipient. Under this definition, the frequency or means of communication can be cited as the reason for criminal charges.

For example, repeatedly prank calling another person or "ding-dong-ditching" at his or her residence could be considered harassment under Tennessee law. You may think these types of actions are harmless, but if you are convicted of harassment, you could face Class A misdemeanor penalties of up to a year in prison and a $2,500 fine.

Other Forms of Harassment in Tennessee

The statute for harassment is quite broad, covering multiple definitions and specific examples of harassment. For instance, if you falsely communicate to another person that his or her loved one has been hurt or killed, you could face harassment charges. You could also face criminal harassment charges for transmitting a threatening image to somebody else with the intent to put him or her in fear of harm. The statute also includes cyberbullying as a prosecutable offense.

Meet With an Anderson County, TN Harassment Defense Attorney

Accusations of harassment can come with serious penalties. If you have been arrested and charged with this offense, do not hesitate to reach out to a Union County, TN criminal defense lawyer today. At Jeffrey Coller, Knoxville Criminal Defense Attorney, we know there are two sides to every story, and we are ready to hear out your case. To schedule a free initial consultation with our firm, call our offices at 865-281-1000.