Burlington County Obstruction of Governmental Administration Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Obstruction of governmental administration in Burlington County is a disorderly persons offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:29-1, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for these charges, which often arise alongside resisting arrest allegations.
Understanding the Statute for Obstruction of Governmental Administration
In New Jersey, the crime of obstruction of governmental administration is defined by statute N.J.S.A. 2C:29-1. The law states that a person commits this offense if they purposely obstruct, impair, or pervert the administration of law or other governmental function, or prevent or attempt to prevent a public servant from performing an official function, by means of intimidation, force, violence, physical interference, or obstacle. This is a broad statute that can cover a wide range of conduct, from giving false information to an officer to physically interfering with an arrest.
Last verified: April 2026 | Burlington County Superior Court | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:29-1 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For local court procedures, visit the Burlington Vicinage of the New Jersey Courts website.
Local Defense Strategy for Burlington County
In Burlington County courts, these charges are frequently filed alongside resisting arrest under N.J.S.A. 2C:29-2. A common local procedural fact is that prosecutors must prove the underlying official action was lawful. An experienced obstruction of governmental administration lawyer Burlington County will scrutinize the initial police interaction. If the officer lacked probable cause or acted outside their authority, your entire case may be defensible. A strong resisting arrest defense lawyer Burlington County often addresses both charges simultaneously, as the defenses are interrelated.
- Case Review: Your attorney will obtain all police reports, body-worn camera footage, and witness statements to assess the prosecution’s evidence.
- Defense Development: A defense is built around challenging the element of “purposeful” obstruction or the lawfulness of the official act you allegedly obstructed.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will engage with the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office to seek a reduction or dismissal, often arguing for alternative resolutions like Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI).
- Trial Preparation: If a fair plea cannot be reached, your attorney will prepare to argue your case before a judge in Burlington County Superior Court.
Potential Penalties for Obstruction in New Jersey
In Burlington County, obstruction of governmental administration is prosecuted as a disorderly persons offense, carrying significant penalties that create a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Record Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | Permanent criminal record; visible on background checks. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Approach to Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand that an obstruction charge can threaten your employment, housing, and reputation. Our strategy is to mount an immediate and thorough investigation to protect your rights and future.
Documented Case Results
Our attorneys have successfully defended clients against obstruction of governmental administration charges throughout New Jersey. While results are always case-specific, our firm has a documented history of achieving dismissals, reductions to lesser offenses, and favorable PTI placements for eligible clients.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Burlington County Defense Team
Our firm is positioned to defend clients across Burlington County, including near the Burlington County Superior Court in Mount Holly and communities like Moorestown, Willingboro, and Medford.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is obstruction of governmental administration a felony in NJ?
No. In New Jersey, obstruction of governmental administration is classified as a disorderly persons offense, which is similar to a misdemeanor in other states. It is not a felony (indictable crime).
Can I go to jail for obstruction of governmental administration?
Yes. A conviction for obstruction in Burlington County can result in a sentence of up to six months in the county jail. The likelihood of jail time increases if the obstruction involved violence, created a risk of injury, or was connected to a more serious underlying crime.
What’s the difference between obstruction and resisting arrest?
Obstruction (N.J.S.A. 2C:29-1) is a broader offense involving interference with any government function. Resisting arrest (N.J.S.A. 2C:29-2) is a specific type of obstruction that occurs when a person prevents an officer from effecting a lawful arrest. You can be charged with both for the same incident.
What are common defenses to an obstruction charge?
Common defenses include lack of purposeful intent, challenging the lawfulness of the official action being obstructed, arguing your conduct was mere verbal argument protected by the First Amendment, or demonstrating that the officer’s use of force was excessive, justifying your protective actions.
Should I just plead guilty to get it over with?
It depends. Pleading guilty guarantees a permanent criminal record, which can affect employment, professional licenses, and immigration status. Consulting with an obstruction of governmental administration lawyer Burlington County is critical to explore options for dismissal, PTI, or a favorable plea to a non-criminal violation.
Under Va. Code § 13.1-1000 et seq., state law governs this practice area.