Resisting Arrest Lawyer Chevy Chase — What Are Your Defense Options?
Resisting arrest in Washington, D.C., is a misdemeanor under D.C. Code § 22-405.01, carrying up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented resisting arrest case result in Chevy Chase, D.C. Our resisting arrest lawyer Chevy Chase team, led by former prosecutor Mr.
What Is Resisting Arrest Under D.C. Law?
In Washington, D.C., resisting arrest is defined by D.C. Code § 22-405.01. The law makes it illegal to intentionally prevent or attempt to prevent a law enforcement officer from making a lawful arrest. This can include actions like pulling away, stiffening your body to avoid being handcuffed, or creating a physical struggle. The charge is separate from the underlying offense you may have been arrested for, meaning you can face penalties for both.
Last verified: April 2026 | DC Superior Court | D.C. Code § 22-405.01
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see D.C. Code § 22-405.01 (official D.C. Council code). Court information is available at the DC Superior Court Criminal Division website.
Local Court Process for Resisting Arrest in Chevy Chase
All resisting arrest cases in Chevy Chase are heard at the DC Superior Court Criminal Division at 500 Indiana Avenue NW. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for D.C. (USAO-DC) prosecutes these cases, not a local district attorney. The Pretrial Services Agency handles release decisions, not a traditional cash bail system.
- Arraignment: You will be brought before a judge, usually within 24 hours, to hear the formal charge.
- Pretrial Services Interview: An agency officer will interview you to recommend release conditions to the court.
- Status Hearing: Your attorney will review evidence with the prosecutor and discuss possible resolutions.
- Motion Practice: Your lawyer may file motions to challenge the legality of the arrest or suppress evidence.
- Trial or Disposition: The case will proceed to a bench trial or be resolved through a negotiated agreement.
Potential Penalties for Resisting Arrest in D.C.
In Chevy Chase, resisting arrest is a misdemeanor carrying up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine, plus a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resisting Arrest | Misdemeanor | Up to 180 days | Up to $1,000 | None directly | Criminal record, possible probation, can affect employment/immigration |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience Defending Resisting Arrest Charges
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We focus on building a defense that challenges the prosecution’s ability to prove you intentionally resisted a lawful arrest.
Case Results in Washington, D.C.
Our firm has 1 documented resisting arrest case result in the Washington, D.C. area: 1 case dismissed/not guilty, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for this locality. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on D.C. criminal cases, Matthew Greene, brings over 30 years of experience, including former death penalty certification and a 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria.
Resisting Arrest Lawyer Washington Near Me Chevy Chase
Our Arlington location serves clients in Chevy Chase, D.C., and is approximately 3 miles from DC Superior Court, accessible via I-395 and I-66. We provide an affordable resisting arrest lawyer Washington Chevy Chase for residents of Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle, Adams Morgan, and surrounding neighborhoods.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who prosecutes resisting arrest cases in Washington, D.C.?
The United States Attorney’s Office for D.C. (USAO-DC) prosecutes all local criminal cases, including resisting arrest. DC is a federal territory where federal prosecutors handle crimes under D.C. Code at DC Superior Court.
Does D.C. use cash bail for resisting arrest?
No. DC uses the Pretrial Services Agency to assess risk and recommend release conditions—not cash bail. Most defendants are released without posting money while their case is pending.
Can a resisting arrest charge be dropped?
It depends. Charges may be dropped if the underlying arrest was unlawful, if the officer’s use of force was excessive, or if the evidence of intentional resistance is weak. An experienced resisting arrest lawyer Chevy Chase can evaluate these defenses.
What is the difference between obstruction and resisting arrest?
Resisting arrest (D.C. Code § 22-405.01) specifically involves preventing an arrest. Obstruction of justice is a broader charge that can include interfering with an investigation or providing false information. The penalties are similar.
How can a lawyer help with a resisting arrest charge?
A lawyer can challenge the legality of the initial stop or arrest, argue that your actions were not intentional, negotiate for a reduction to a lesser offense, or take the case to trial. Early intervention is critical.
Internal Resources
For more information, see our D.C. Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist with related matters like family law and personal injury in Washington, D.C. Learn more about our team on the attorney profile page.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.