Camden County Obstruction of Governmental Administration Lawyer
An obstruction of governmental administration charge in Camden County, NJ, is a serious offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:29-1 that can lead to jail time and a permanent record. If you are accused of interfering with a public servant’s duties, you need an experienced obstruction of governmental administration lawyer Camden County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
What Is Obstruction of Governmental Administration in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, the crime of obstruction of governmental administration is defined by statute N.J.S.A. 2C:29-1. The law makes it illegal to purposely obstruct, impair, or prevent a public servant from performing an official function by using or threatening violence, force, physical interference, or by any other independently unlawful act. This charge is often filed alongside other offenses, such as resisting arrest. The statute is broad and can apply to various situations where an individual interferes with police, firefighters, EMTs, or other government officials.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Camden Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has a deep understanding of how these charges are applied and defended in New Jersey courts.
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 court procedures and information, visit the Camden Vicinage of the New Jersey Superior Court.
Defending Obstruction Charges in Camden County Court
In the Camden Vicinage, prosecutors take obstruction charges seriously, viewing them as an attack on public authority. A common local procedural fact is that these cases are often heard in the Criminal Part of the Superior Court. The prosecution must prove you acted purposely to obstruct an official function. An effective obstruction of justice defense lawyer Camden County will challenge whether the official was engaged in a lawful duty and whether your actions rose to the level of criminal obstruction or were merely passive non-compliance.
- Initial Consultation: Contact our firm immediately after arrest or receiving a summons to discuss the specific allegations.
- Case Review: We obtain all police reports, witness statements, and any available video evidence to analyze the prosecution’s case.
- Defense Strategy: We develop a defense, which may involve challenging the legality of the underlying official action or arguing a lack of purposeful intent.
- Pre-Trial Motions: We may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge if the stop or arrest was unlawful.
- Resolution: We negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal, or prepare for trial if a favorable plea cannot be reached.
Potential Penalties for Obstruction in New Jersey
In Camden County, obstruction of governmental administration is a disorderly persons offense, carrying up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine, with long-term consequences for employment and housing.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional 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, difficulty finding employment, professional licensing issues, immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Criminal Defense in New Jersey
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience, our firm has handled thousands of criminal cases. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands both sides of the courtroom. This experience is crucial when building a defense against charges like obstruction, where the details of the officer’s conduct are often central to the case. We focus on protecting your rights and seeking the best possible resolution.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific case results in Camden County for this charge are not enumerated here, our firm-wide approach across New Jersey is to aggressively challenge the prosecution’s evidence. A strong resisting arrest defense lawyer Camden County will examine whether the force used by police was justified, which can directly impact an obstruction charge. We work to have charges dismissed or reduced to avoid the severe penalties of a conviction.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Obstruction of Governmental Administration Lawyer Near Camden County
Our New Jersey location serves clients at the Camden County courts. We represent individuals in Camden, Cherry Hill, Gloucester Township, Voorhees, Haddonfield, and surrounding communities. Our firm is accessible via I-76, Route 70, and the PATCO Speedline.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
By appointment only.
24/7 Phone Consultations: (888) 437-7747
Frequently Asked Questions: Obstruction Charges in Camden County
Is obstruction of governmental administration a felony in NJ?
No. In New Jersey, basic obstruction under N.J.S.A. 2C:29-1 is classified as a disorderly persons offense, which is similar to a misdemeanor. However, it still carries a potential jail sentence of up to six months.
Can I be charged with obstruction for just arguing with a police officer?
It depends. Merely arguing or verbally criticizing an officer is generally protected speech and not obstruction. The charge typically requires physical interference, a threat of force, or an independently unlawful act that actually hinders the officer’s official duty.
What is the difference between obstruction and resisting arrest?
Resisting arrest (N.J.S.A. 2C:29-2) specifically involves preventing an officer from effecting an arrest. Obstruction is broader and can involve interfering with any official function, not just an arrest. The two charges are often filed together.
Should I talk to the police if I’m accused of obstruction?
No. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you. Politely state that you wish to speak with an obstruction of governmental administration lawyer Camden County before answering any questions.
What are the defenses to an obstruction charge?
Common defenses include: the public servant was not engaged in a lawful duty, you lacked the purposeful intent to obstruct, your actions were protected speech, or the evidence against you was obtained through an unlawful stop or arrest.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing related charges, you may need a resisting arrest lawyer in Camden County. For other criminal matters, see our page on federal criminal defense in Camden County. For a broader view of our services, visit our New Jersey criminal defense hub.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding obstruction of governmental administration charges.