Purposely obstructing, impairing, or perverting the administration of law or other government function is a crime in New Jersey. Under N.J.S.A. 2C:29-1, Obstructing The Administration Of Law, any action with purpose to impede the workings of law enforcement or other government roles can be prosecuted.
This includes taking steps to prevent public servants from performing their official duties by means of flight, intimidation, force, violence, physical interference or obstacle, or through any unlawful act.
The base charge under 2C:29-1 is a disorderly persons offense, which can result in six months in jail and a fine of $1,000 if convicted. When the obstruction in question is designed to hinder the detection of a crime, the investigation of a crime, or the prosecution of someone for a crime, the charge is of the fourth degree. Conviction can result in 18 months in prison and a fine of $10,000.
Most commonly, a charge like this will be filed as part of a larger indictment, and complex cases require experienced attorneys to evaluate the evidence against you and create a successful strategy to protect you.
Matthew Reisig has defended clients in New Jersey for nearly 20 years and has an excellent track record of success, even with complicated legal issues. If you’re facing prosecution for violation of 2C:29-1 or related charges, call 732-625-9661 for a free consultation with an experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney.