Last Updated on: 20th October 2023, 09:04 am

Obstruction of Justice Charges: Why You Need an Aggressive Defense Attorney

Being charged with obstruction of justice can be scary. These charges can carry serious penalties, including hefty fines and jail time. But with an experienced and aggressive defense attorney on your side, you can fight the charges and protect your future.

In this article, we’ll break down what obstruction of justice is, the common charges, potential penalties, and why having a relentless defense attorney is so important when facing these accusations.

Penalties for Obstruction of Justice

The penalties for obstruction of justice vary widely based on the specific circumstances of the case. But in general, these charges are taken very seriously.

For less egregious cases, you may face:

• Probation
• Community service
• Fines up to $250,000 for individuals or $500,000 for organizations

But for more serious offenses, you could face:

• Years in prison
• Massive fines up to $250,000 for individuals or $500,000 for organizations

In particularly extreme cases, obstruction charges can even carry up to 20 years in prison. The potential consequences are severe.

Why You Need an Aggressive Attorney

With such serious penalties on the line, having an aggressive defense attorney is critical when facing obstruction accusations. Here’s why:

1. They can challenge the evidence and poke holes in the prosecution’s case. Obstruction charges often rely heavily on circumstantial evidence. An experienced lawyer can scrutinize the evidence and look for any weaknesses.
2. They can argue your actions didn’t actually obstruct justice. The definition of obstruction is broad, but has limits. A talented attorney can make the case that while your actions may have been ill-advised, they don’t meet the technical threshold for true obstruction.
3. They can put your actions in context. Obstruction charges often look much worse on paper. A good lawyer can explain the nuances of the situation and your intentions to the judge and jury.
4. They can negotiate plea deals or settlements. An aggressive lawyer has the best chance at negotiating a favorable plea bargain or settlement so you can avoid harsh penalties.
5. They have experience navigating complex federal statutes. Obstruction charges often involve complex federal laws like 18 U.S. Code § 1503 or 18 U.S. Code § 1512. A knowledgeable attorney understands how prosecutors interpret these statutes.
6. They know how to navigate sentencing guidelines. Experienced lawyers understand how various factors influence sentencing recommendations and push for the lightest penalties.
7. They can assemble a powerful defense team. Top attorneys have the resources and connections to bring on private investigators, forensic experts, and other specialists to build your defense.
8. They have relationships with judges and prosecutors. Well-connected lawyers who regularly handle obstruction cases often develop working relationships with judges and prosecutors, which can help resolve cases as favorably as possible.

Having an aggressive defense lawyer in your corner – someone who will relentlessly challenge the charges and fight for you – can make all the difference.

Fighting Obstruction of Justice Charges

Battling obstruction accusations is complex and high-stakes. Here are some key strategies skilled defense lawyers use:

• Look for procedural violations. Aggressive lawyers dig deep into the details of the investigation and charging process. Violations of procedure, no matter how small, can help undermine the case.
• Challenge the obstruction statute itself. In some cases, lawyers will argue the obstruction laws themselves are unconstitutional violations of free speech rights.
• Dispute corrupt intent. Most obstruction charges require proving the defendant had specific corrupt intent to obstruct justice. This high burden of proof creates opportunities to fight the charges.
• Cast doubt on evidence. Since obstruction cases rely heavily on circumstantial evidence, skilled attorneys will look to poke holes anywhere possible to weaken the case.
• Argue your actions didn’t actually obstruct. Lawyers can make the case that while your actions may have been questionable, they don’t meet the legal threshold for true obstruction.
• Claim your statements were literally true. If charged with making false statements, your attorney can argue your statements were technically and literally true, even if misleading.
• Allege abuse or misconduct. Aggressive lawyers aren’t afraid to claim obstruction charges themselves represent overreach or misconduct by investigators or prosecutors.

An experienced defense attorney will leverage multiple strategies in seeking the best possible outcome for your specific case.

The Bottom Line

Obstruction of justice charges should always be taken seriously. The penalties can be severe, and the complex federal laws involved make mounting a defense difficult.

Having an aggressive lawyer who will relentlessly challenge the evidence and allegations against you provides the best chance at a favorable outcome. Don’t take chances with your future – contact a dedicated obstruction defense attorney right away.