What is Considered Obstruction of Justice?

Obstruction of justice is a serious criminal offense in New Jersey and can be committed in a variety of ways. This offense undermines the legal system and prevents law enforcement from doing their job properly. To learn more about what is considered obstruction of justice in New Jersey, continue reading and contact a knowledgeable Bergen County criminal defense attorney today.

What is Considered Obstruction of Justice?

Under New Jersey state law, obstruction of justice is defined as the following.

When a person purposefully obstructs, impairs, or perverts the administration of the law or other governmental function
When a person prevents or attempts to prevent a public servant from lawfully performing an official function by flight, intimidation, force, violence, physical interference, obstacle, or any independently unlawful act

Federal law also prohibits the obstruction of justice. The term “obstruction of justice” can include a wide range of actions, given that they interfere with or obstruct the administration of justice. Examples can include threatening a witness, destroying evidence, resisting arrest, providing false statements, falsifying records, interfering with an investigation, and more.

What are the Penalties for Obstruction of Justice in NJ?

The legal consequences of obstruction of justice can be severe. This offense is a felony under federal law. The associated penalties vary depending on how justice was obstructed and the exact offense that was committed. For example, a conviction of influencing a juror by written communication may face up to 6 months of imprisonment and significant fines. However, obstructing a criminal investigation can yield repercussions of up to 5 years of imprisonment and significant fines.

Under New Jersey state law, obstruction of justice is a disorderly persons offense, similar to a misdemeanor in other states. This crime is punishable by the following.

Up to 6 months in jail
Fines of up to $1,000
Probation
Community service
Various fees and restitution

In some cases, the offense can be enhanced to a fourth-degree indictable crime, similar to a felony in other states. If aggravating factors are present and the crime is charged as a fourth-degree offense, it can be punishable by the following consequences.

Up to 18 months in prison
Fines of up to $10,000
Probation
Community service
Various fees and restitution

Interfering with the law and criminal justice system is no joke. People may obstruct justice if they believe it is the only way to protect themselves or another person from a criminal conviction or if they are scared and want to avoid trouble. Regardless of the reason, taking any action in an attempt to interfere with an investigation or trial can result in harsh repercussions. If you are facing charges related to obstruction of justice, do not hesitate to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at the Law Office of Attorney Conway.