Bergen County Obstruction of Governmental Administration Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
An obstruction of governmental administration charge in Bergen County, under N.J. Stat. § 2C:29-1, is a serious disorderly persons offense that can result in up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for individuals accused of interfering with public servants.
Understanding Obstruction of Governmental Administration in New Jersey
The crime of obstruction of governmental administration is defined under New Jersey statute N.J. Stat. § 2C:29-1. It occurs when a person purposely obstructs, impairs, or perverts the administration of law or other governmental function, or prevents or attempts to prevent a public servant from performing an official function, by means of intimidation, force, violence, physical interference, or obstacle. This charge is often paired with resisting arrest allegations.
Last verified: April 2026 | Bergen County Superior Court | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, refer to the New Jersey Statutes Title 2C (official New Jersey Legislature site). For local court procedures, visit the Bergen County Superior Court website.
Local Defense Strategies for Bergen County
Defending against an obstruction charge requires a precise understanding of the alleged act and the officer’s official function. In Bergen County courts, prosecutors must prove you acted with a purpose to obstruct. A common defense is that the accused lacked the required purposeful intent or that the public servant was not engaged in a lawful duty at the time.
- Secure Representation Immediately: Do not discuss the incident with law enforcement without an attorney present.
- Case Review: Your lawyer will obtain all police reports, witness statements, and any available body-worn camera footage.
- Defense Investigation: We will investigate whether the officer was performing a lawful duty and if your actions meet the legal definition of “obstruction.”
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if constitutional rights were violated.
- Resolution Strategy: Work toward a favorable resolution, which may include a dismissal, downgrade to a lesser offense, or a favorable plea agreement.
- Trial Preparation: If a fair plea cannot be reached, we will prepare a vigorous defense for trial in Bergen County Superior Court.
Potential Penalties for Obstruction of Governmental Administration
In Bergen County, obstruction of governmental administration is prosecuted as a disorderly persons offense with significant penalties that can impact your future.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Collateral Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obstruction of Governmental Administration (N.J.S.A. 2C:29-1) | Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 6 months in county jail | Up to $1,000 | Criminal record, potential employment difficulties, immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Bergen County Courts
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the procedures and personnel in Bergen County courtrooms. Our approach is grounded in thorough investigation and aggressive advocacy.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented history of achieving positive results for clients. We have successfully defended clients against obstruction and related charges by challenging the prosecution’s evidence, negotiating for dismissals, and securing reductions to non-criminal violations. Every case is unique, and we dedicate our resources to building the strongest possible defense for you.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Bergen County Defense Representation
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Serving Bergen County, New Jersey
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
Our firm is positioned to defend clients throughout Bergen County, including near the Bergen County Justice Center in Hackensack. We serve communities such as Hackensack, Fort Lee, Teaneck, Englewood, Paramus, and Mahwah. As an obstruction of governmental administration lawyer near Bergen County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is obstruction of governmental administration a felony in New Jersey?
No. Under N.J. Stat. § 2C:29-1, obstruction of governmental administration is classified as a disorderly persons offense, which is similar to a misdemeanor in other states. However, it still carries a potential jail sentence of up to six months.
Can I be charged with obstruction just for arguing with a police officer?
It depends. Mere verbal argument, without physical interference or intimidation that actually prevents an officer from performing their duty, may not meet the legal standard. A key defense is often whether the accused’s actions constituted a physical or tangible obstruction, not just disagreement.
What is the difference between obstruction and resisting arrest?
Resisting arrest, under N.J. Stat. § 2C:29-2, specifically involves preventing an officer from effecting a lawful arrest. Obstruction of governmental administration is a broader charge that can apply to interfering with any official function, not just an arrest. You need a skilled resisting arrest defense lawyer Bergen County to handle these interrelated charges.
Should I talk to the police if I’m accused of obstruction?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Anything you say can be used against you. Politely decline to answer questions and request to speak with your obstruction of governmental administration lawyer Bergen County immediately.
What are the long-term consequences of an obstruction conviction?
A disorderly persons conviction creates a permanent criminal record. This can affect employment opportunities, professional licensing, housing applications, and immigration status. It is important to fight the charge to avoid these lasting repercussions.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Your case in Bergen County, New Jersey
Indictable charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division; disorderly-persons offenses are heard in the municipal court where the charge was filed. In Bergen County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage (2nd Vicinage), 10 Main Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601, telephone (201) 527-2700, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, N.J.S.A. Title 2C. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Bergen County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Bergen County NJ lawyers directory · Obstruction of Governmental Administration Lawyer Hudson · Obstruction of Governmental Administration Lawyer Monmouth.