Resisting arrest is the term used to describe an individual’s attempts to resist a lawful arrest by a police officer or other type of law enforcement. Any time that someone attempts to prevent a police officer’s justified attempt to arrest an individual, it is referred to as resisting arrest. The majority of situations that involve arrest resistance are physical—in other words, the individual being arrested uses physical force as a way to avoid an arrest. If the scenario intensifies and an offender threatens or physically harms a law enforcement officer, the offender can be charged with assault or battery of a peace officer, which will often result in an automatic felony.

Are you facing charges after resisting an arrest? Our lawyers can help! Contact a local criminal defense lawyer today for more information about potentially reducing or completely eliminating the charges that you are facing.

Depending on the circumstances and the state in which the incident occurred, resisting arrest can possibly lead to:

• Additional jail time
• Required community service
• Probation
• Fines
• Felony conviction
• Prison

Most offenders who resist arrest do so out of sudden fear without knowing that they are committing a crime.  By resisting arrest, an individual now has two different criminal charges to deal with: the original criminal act that the offender was being arrested for, and the criminal offense of resisting arrest.  Because of this, it is imperative for those facing resisting arrest charges to contact a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An experienced criminal defense lawyer will carefully look over your case and help you take the best course of action to avoid harsh prosecution and additional legal penalties.

Are you or a loved one facing criminal charges after resisting an arrest? Our attorneys can help! Don’t delay; contact a criminal defense attorney in your area today for more information about reducing or eliminating the charges that are being brought against you.

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Did you know?
It is important to keep in mind, however, that resisting arrest without violence can is also considered a serious offense.
Offenders can also be charged with resisting arrest if they attempt to lie to a police offer or give them false information, or run away from a law enforcement official during their attempted arrest.