Canberra lawyer Fabio Fior has been fined $10,000 and ordered to pay $8,000 in legal costs for sending a series of threatening text messages to a builder during a construction dispute. The ACT Magistrates Court heard that Fior, 49, sent the messages to the builder in February 2022 after becoming frustrated with delays in a home renovation project.
Details of the threats
The court was told that Fior sent multiple texts over several days, including one that said: "I will make your life a living hell." Another message read: "You are a dead man walking." The builder, who cannot be named for legal reasons, said he felt intimidated and feared for his safety. He reported the matter to police.
Legal proceedings and penalty
Fior pleaded guilty to one charge of using a carriage service to menace, harass, or cause offence. Magistrate Robert Cook said the messages were "deliberate and calculated" and designed to instill fear. He noted that Fior, as a lawyer, should have known better. In addition to the fine and costs, Fior was placed on a 12-month good behaviour bond. He was also ordered to have no contact with the builder.
Outside court, Fior apologised for his actions, saying he had been under significant stress at the time. "I regret my behaviour and I apologise to the court and to the builder," he said. The builder's lawyer said his client was satisfied with the outcome and hoped it would serve as a deterrent to others.
