Abusive language (law)

The use of abusive language to another person is illegal in a small number of U.S. states.^[1][2] Offenders are typically charged with this offense in conjunction with other crimes, such as aggressive driving or assault. However, in 1989 the New York State Court of Appeals ruled that abusive language was protected under the First Amendment to the United States Constitution.^[3]

References

1. Commonwealth of Virginia code on abusive language Retrieved 2011-10-14.
2. Mississippi code on abusive language Retrieved 2011-10-14.
3. Sam Howe Verhovek, "New York Court Voids Law on Abusive Language". New York Times, December 20, 1989 Retrieved 2011-10-14.