In California, getting in the way of the administration of justice is a serious offense. There are several ways a person can do this under the California Penal Code, and understanding what this means, along with examples and penalties, can help you prevent getting into such a situation.
Obstruction of Justice
California Penal Code § 148 describes this crime and a variety of actions that can lead to this charge, including but not limited to:
- Physically resisting or trying to prevent a police officer from making an arrest.
- Giving false information or misleading law enforcement during an investigation.
- Destroying or altering evidence that could be relevant to an ongoing investigation.
- Threatening or coercing a witness from testifying or talking to law enforcement.
In other words, as stated above, this crime involves getting in the way of law enforcement’s procedures. The crime is typically charged as a misdemeanor. However, it depends on the specific circumstances of the offense and the individual charged.
Penalties
If a person is charged with misdemeanor obstruction of justice, penalties include:
- Up to one year in jail
- A fine of up to $1,000
- Probation time
If a person is charged with felony obstruction of justice, penalties include:
- Up to three years in prison
- Fines higher than $1,000
- Additional penalties
Obstructing the administration of justice is a serious offense that can have lasting implications on your life. If you find yourself in this situation or know someone who is going through this, you will need experienced legal representation to ensure the best possible outcome.
