Q: TN Law - I've stated that I will press harassment charges against a company/"company" if they continue to call me.
I've been making that statement for years, but I'm guessing I should know what I can and can't do. If there is a telemarketer/company rep/spam call and have hung up on them more than 1-2 times, I will notify them that I will file harassment charges if they continue to call me. So far, I have been successful and stopped getting calls. But considering how people and companies are nowadays, I guess I should be able to at the least know what TN law is on an individual filing harassment charges against a company/"company" that does not stop calling, annoying, pestering, etc.
A:
In Tennessee, the laws regarding harassment typically apply to behavior that involves threats, intimidation, or repeated unwanted contact that causes emotional distress. When it comes to telemarketers or companies continuously calling, this can be a nuisance, but it may not always meet the legal definition of harassment.
However, you do have rights under laws like the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) at the federal level, which restricts telemarketing calls and the use of automated telephone equipment. If you've repeatedly asked a company to stop calling and they continue to do so, they may be violating the TCPA.
To address this issue, you can register your phone number with the National Do Not Call Registry. If calls persist after this, you can file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
In cases where a company's calls are excessively disruptive or if you believe they are crossing into harassment, consulting with an attorney can provide clarity on your legal options. They can advise you on whether you have grounds to pursue legal action and the best course of action to take.
Remember, dealing with persistent and unwanted calls can be frustrating, but there are legal avenues to address this issue. Being aware of your rights and the appropriate steps to take can help mitigate the problem effectively.
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