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What Happens if You Threaten a Judge in Court? 

 Posted on January 23, 2025 in Criminal Defense

Plano, TX criminal defense lawyerCourtrooms can be stressful, emotional places and sometimes people say things in the heat of the moment that they do not mean. If you have made a threat against a judge — even one that you only made out of frustration or anger — it is important to understand how serious this situation can be.

Even if the threat was not meant to be taken seriously, it can lead to severe legal consequences under Texas law. Speaking with an experienced Texas criminal defense attorney is the best way to protect your rights and handle these charges.

Is Threatening a Judge a Crime in Texas?

Threatening a judge is a very serious crime in Texas. According to Texas law, this offense falls under the category of "retaliation". It is illegal to harm or threaten a public servant, including a judge, in retaliation for performing their official duties. The law does not require proof that you intended to carry out the threat — just making the threat can lead to criminal charges. Threatening a judge is a third-degree felony, which comes with serious consequences:

  • Prison time: Two to 10 years in prison

  • Fines: Up to $10,000

  • Permanent criminal record: A felony conviction will follow you for the rest of your life, making it harder to get a job, rent a home, or attend certain schools.

What If the Threat Was Not Serious?

Even if you made the statement out of frustration or in the heat of the moment, it does not excuse the behavior under Texas law. Judges are public servants who are protected because of their critical role in the legal system. Emotional outbursts or offhand comments can still lead to criminal charges if they are seen as a threat.

Examples of behavior that could result in charges of retaliation include yelling or threatening a judge in a courtroom, but could also include sending a threatening letter or even making a threatening statement on social media. The most important thing to understand here is that the intent behind your words does not matter as much as how your statement is perceived.

Call a Plano, TX Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you have been accused of threatening a judge, you definitely need a criminal defense lawyer even if you think you did not need one before. A lawyer can help you understand the charges, review the evidence, and build a strong defense.

At The Crowder Law Firm, P.C., our team has years of experience handling felony charges and defending clients accused of the most serious crimes there are. With over 300 not-guilty verdicts and acquittals, we have the skills to fight for the best outcome in your case.

If you are facing charges for threatening a judge, do not wait to get legal help. Contact a Collin County, TX criminal defense attorney at The Crowder Law Firm, P.C. for a free consultation. Call 214-544-0061 today to start building your defense.

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