Obstruction of Justice

Engaging in conduct which is intended to interfere with or otherwise damage the administration of the legal system or judicial system is defined as the obstruction of justice. This may include interfering with the court system, with law enforcement or with the judicial system in any way. Some examples of obstruction of justice may include:

• Tampering with evidence
• Hiding evidence
• Interfering with an arrest
• Hiding a suspect or wanted criminal
• Helping a person escape from custody
• Committing perjury (lying under oath)
• Threatening a judge or witness
• Committing or attempting to commit bribery or extortion to interfere with the administration of justice
• Retaliating against a judge, witness, police officer or other party involved in a criminal case
• Any other actions which are meant to hinder the pursuit of justice

The specific definition of what constitutes obstruction of justice will vary depending on the jurisdiction.

What are the penalties for obstruction of justice?

Depending on the case, obstruction of justice may be charged on a state or federal level. The prosecutor must prove not only that the act occurred (i.e. the threat, bribe, etc.) but that the defendant committed the act with the intent to interfere with judicial proceedings or the administration of justice. If convicted, a defendant may face incarceration as well as fines and other criminal penalties. The particular sentence will depend on the nature of the act itself, the jurisdiction and the defendant's criminal history, if any.

Now is the time to learn more about your legal rights and what to do in the face of obstruction of justice charges. Click here to find a criminal defense lawyer in your area.