Committing the crime of obstruction of justice is a very serious criminal offense. Obstruction of justice is defined by any action that prevents or hinders the proper judicial process, the administration of the courts, law enforcement or correctional actions. This could be something as simple as a non-violent resist of arrest, or as severe as lying while acting as a witness. This also includes actions such as bribing or threatening a witness, judge, lawyer or law enforcement officer. Other actions which can bring around the obstruction of justice charge include:

• Interference of an investigation
• Picketing and using a megaphone in front of the courts without a permit
• Falsifying, hiding or destroying evidence and lying while participating in an investigation
• Lying to law enforcement during questioning
• Giving a false statement
• Resisting Arrest
• Falsifying, hiding or destroying documents
• Paying someone else to give false evidence or testimony
• Attempting to influence a jury or witness before or during trial
• Assaulting or threatening a person for operating in a police investigation
• Obstructing court orders

In fact, any action that interferes or hinders the daily operations of any of the three branches of government can bring about an obstruction of justice charge.

Obstruction of Justice Legal Penalties

In order to be charged, law enforcement must believe or have strong evidence that you influenced or attempted to influence a proceeding or an investigation in some manner. A conviction for obstruction of justice can result in jail term of up to ten years, depending upon the obstruction committed. It can also result in heavy fines, community service, probation and a misdemeanor or felony charge on your criminal record.

After a person has been charged with a crime such as obstruction of justice, it is important that they are informed of their legal rights and options. The best way people can become informed throughout the legal process is by retaining the services of a knowledgeable Los Angeles criminal defense attorney who can continually protect the client's best interests. By working closely with the right attorney, people may be able to avoid conviction for obstruction of justice and not have to deal with the life-altering consequences that are associated with most obstruction of justice convictions.

Los Angeles Obstruction of Justice Defense Attorneys

At The Chahine Law Firm, our Los Angeles obstruction of justice defense attorneys and lawyers have represented many clients who were facing obstruction of justice charges and penalties. With our help, our past clients have been able to fight their obstruction of justice charges and obtain successful outcomes in court. Our experienced criminal defense lawyers are aggressive, professional litigators who are ready to help you.

If you have been charged with obstruction of justice, and you would like to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney, call a Los Angeles obstruction of justice attorney at The Chahine Law Firm today for a free case consultation.