Obstruction of justice charges can be lodged against a person for a vast array of charges.  The definition of obstruction of justice is intentionally broad so that it can encompass a number of different offenses.  A criminal defense attorney in Broward County can explain the nature of charges against a person.  Additionally, a criminal defense attorney in Broward County can explain the possible consequences associated with a particular charge and if there are any ways to mitigate these consequences.

Florida law defines obstruction of justice as any type of obstructing, restricting or opposing certain officers from executing their jobs or legal duties.  It is not typically considered a violent crime.  The officer may be an officer of the Parole Commission or an aide or supervisor paid by the commission, a parole or probation officer or supervisor, criminal court personnel, certain government officers, a law enforcement officer or a person who is legally authorized to execute legal process.

There are a number of different acts that may provide grounds for an obstruction of justice charge, including resisting arrest, altering evidence, stealing evidence, fleeing police, bringing tools to jail to aid in an escape, removing a weapon or communication device from an officer, publishing the name of a police officer interfering with an investigation or falsely impersonating a police officer.

Potential penalties for a person charged with obstruction of justice vary based on the circumstances and the level of crime charged.  Obstruction of justice charges may be charged as a first degree misdemeanor or sometimes as a third degree felony.  Penalties can be as severe as receiving 30 years in prison.