Somerset County Obstruction of the Administration of Law Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Obstruction of the administration of law in Somerset County is a serious criminal offense under New Jersey law, often charged alongside resisting arrest. A conviction can lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for these charges in the Somerset Vicinage Superior Court.
What Is Obstruction of the Administration of Law in New Jersey?
Obstruction of the administration of law is defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:29-1. The statute makes it a crime to purposely obstruct, impair, or pervert the administration of law or other governmental function, or to prevent a public servant from performing an official function, by means of intimidation, force, violence, physical interference, or obstacle. This is a broad charge that can cover a wide range of conduct, from giving false information to an officer to physically interfering with an arrest or investigation.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience handling criminal charges like obstruction. An obstruction of the administration of law lawyer Somerset County from our team understands that these charges are often subjective and can be challenged on the grounds of intent and the specific actions alleged.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:29-1 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For local court procedures, visit the Somerset Vicinage website.
Local Court Process for Obstruction Charges in Somerset County
Obstruction charges in Somerset County are prosecuted in the Criminal Division of the Superior Court. These cases often move quickly from an initial arrest or summons. Prosecutors in the Somerset Vicinage take these charges seriously, as they are viewed as an attack on the authority of law enforcement and the judicial system. A skilled obstruction of justice defense lawyer Somerset County will immediately work to scrutinize the police report and witness statements for inconsistencies.
- Initial Appearance: You will be formally advised of the charges and your rights. Bail conditions may be set.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney will obtain all evidence, including police body camera footage, which is often key in obstruction cases.
- Pre-Indictment Phase: Your lawyer may negotiate with the prosecutor to downgrade or dismiss the charge before it goes to a grand jury.
- Grand Jury & Indictment: If the case proceeds, a grand jury will decide whether to issue an indictment.
- Pretrial Motions: Your attorney can file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge if your rights were violated.
- Trial or Disposition: The case will either go to trial before a judge or jury or be resolved through a negotiated plea.
Potential Penalties for Obstruction in New Jersey
In Somerset County, obstruction of the administration of law is typically a disorderly persons offense, but it can be elevated to a fourth-degree crime under certain circumstances, carrying more severe penalties.
| Offense Level | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obstruction (Standard) | Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 6 months in county jail | Up to $1,000 | Criminal record, possible probation, community service |
| Obstruction (Aggravated) | Crime of the 4th Degree | Up to 18 months in state prison | Up to $10,000 | Same as above, with more severe long-term impacts on employment and housing |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Criminal Defense in New Jersey
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, brings a foundation of over 120 years of combined attorney experience to every case. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to defending clients across state lines and against complex charges. While specific Somerset County results for obstruction are not separately tallied, our firm-wide approach to challenging the prosecution’s evidence and protecting clients’ rights applies directly to these sensitive cases.
Building a Defense Against Obstruction Charges
An effective defense often hinges on the specific facts. A resisting arrest defense lawyer Somerset County will examine whether the officer was acting in an official capacity, if your conduct actually constituted “obstruction,” and whether you acted with the required “purpose.” Common defenses include lack of intent, mistaken identity, officer misconduct, or that your actions were protected by your constitutional rights. We meticulously review all available evidence, including 9-1-1 calls and officer reports, to identify weaknesses in the state’s case.
Contact Our Somerset County Criminal Defense Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Somerset County, including Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, and Hillsborough. We are accessible via I-287, Route 22, and Route 206.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 651-3900
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Obstruction of the Administration of Law in Somerset County FAQs
Is obstruction of the administration of law the same as resisting arrest?
No. They are separate but related charges under N.J.S.A. 2C:29-1 and 2C:29-2. Resisting arrest specifically involves preventing an arrest, while obstruction is broader and can involve interfering with any governmental function. You can be charged with both simultaneously.
Can I be charged with obstruction just for arguing with a police officer?
It depends. Merely arguing or verbally criticizing an officer is generally protected speech. However, if your words rise to the level of intimidation, or are coupled with physical actions that physically interfere with an investigation, you could face charges. An obstruction of the administration of law lawyer Somerset County can analyze the specifics.
What should I do if I am charged with obstruction?
Remain silent and ask for an attorney immediately. Do not attempt to explain yourself or argue at the scene. Anything you say can be used against you. Contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible to begin building your defense.
Is obstruction a felony in New Jersey?
No. Standard obstruction is a disorderly persons offense (similar to a misdemeanor). However, it can be elevated to a fourth-degree crime (an indictable offense) if it creates a risk of public inconvenience or if the defendant uses force or violence.
Can an obstruction charge be dismissed?
Yes. An experienced obstruction of justice defense lawyer Somerset County can seek dismissal by filing pretrial motions, challenging the sufficiency of the evidence, or negotiating with the prosecutor, especially if there are procedural errors or a lack of evidence regarding your intent to obstruct.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing related charges, our firm also handles resisting arrest cases in Somerset County and general criminal defense. For a broader view of our New Jersey practice, visit our New Jersey criminal defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring counties like Bergen and Middlesex.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws and procedures change. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding obstruction of the administration of law charges in Somerset County.
Your case in Somerset 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 Somerset County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage (13th Vicinage), 20 North Bridge Street, Somerville, NJ 08876, telephone (908) 231-7000, 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 Somerset 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: Somerset County NJ lawyers directory · Obstruction of the Administration of Law Lawyer Bergen · Obstruction of the Administration of Law Lawyer Hudson · Obstruction of the Administration of Law Lawyer Monmouth.