Resisting Arrest Lawyer Georgetown — What Are Your Rights?
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 documented results in D.C. Superior Court. If you are facing charges, contact a resisting arrest lawyer Georgetown for a case review.
What Is Resisting Arrest Under D.C. Law?
Resisting arrest in the District of Columbia is defined by D.C. Code § 22-405.01. The statute makes it unlawful to resist, oppose, impede, intimidate, or interfere with a law enforcement officer who is engaged in the performance of their official duties. This includes not only physical acts but also verbal threats or actions that create a substantial risk of injury to the officer or others. The charge is separate from the underlying offense that prompted the arrest.
Last verified: April 2026 | DC Superior Court | D.C. Code Title 22 (official DC Council)
The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, whose background provides insight into both sides of a criminal case.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see D.C. Code § 22-405.01 (official DC Council). Court information and procedures can be found at the DC Superior Court Criminal Division website.
Local Court Process for Resisting Arrest Charges
In Georgetown and across D.C., resisting arrest cases are heard at the DC Superior Court at 500 Indiana Avenue NW. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia (USAO-DC) prosecutes these cases, not a local district attorney. The Pretrial Services Agency handles release decisions, as D.C. does not use a traditional cash bail system for most offenses.
- Arraignment: You will be brought before a judge, informed of the charges, and asked to enter a plea. A public defender may be appointed if you qualify.
- Pretrial Conference: Your attorney will review evidence (discovery) with the prosecutor, which may include police body camera footage, and discuss possible resolutions.
- Motion Practice: Your lawyer may file motions to challenge the legality of the underlying arrest or the sufficiency of the evidence for the resisting charge.
- Trial or Disposition: If a plea agreement cannot be reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge.
Potential Penalties for Resisting Arrest in D.C.
In Washington, D.C., resisting arrest is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resisting Arrest (D.C. Code § 22-405.01) | Misdemeanor | Up to 180 days | Up to $1,000 | Criminal record, potential probation, impact on employment or professional licenses. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Georgetown Resisting Arrest Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to complex cases. Our approach is informed by former prosecutors who understand how these cases are built. For example, Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, demonstrating a deep engagement with criminal and related legal codes.
Documented Case Results in Washington, D.C.
Our firm has documented results in Washington, D.C. For example, we secured a dismissal for a client facing a misdemeanor sex abuse charge in D.C. Superior Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Georgetown Resisting Arrest Lawyer
Our Arlington location serves Georgetown and Washington, D.C., clients. We are approximately 3 miles from DC Superior Court, accessible via I-395 and I-66.
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.
We serve neighborhoods including Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle, Foggy Bottom, and Navy Yard.
If you need an affordable resisting arrest lawyer Washington Georgetown, contact us to discuss your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who prosecutes resisting arrest cases in Washington, D.C.?
The United States Attorney’s Office for DC (USAO-DC) prosecutes all local criminal cases, including resisting arrest. This is a unique federal-local hybrid system.
Does D.C. use cash bail for resisting arrest?
No. D.C. uses the Pretrial Services Agency to assess risk and recommend release conditions—not cash bail. Most defendants are released without posting money.
Can a resisting arrest charge be dropped?
It depends. Charges may be dropped if the underlying arrest was unlawful, if the evidence of resistance is weak (e.g., unclear body camera footage), or as part of a plea agreement on a related charge. A resisting arrest lawyer Washington near me Georgetown can evaluate the specifics of your case.
What should I do if I’m charged with resisting arrest?
Do not discuss the incident with anyone but your attorney. Invoke your right to remain silent. Contact a lawyer immediately to begin building a defense, which may involve reviewing police reports and body camera evidence.
Is resisting arrest a felony in D.C.?
No. Under D.C. Code § 22-405.01, resisting arrest is generally charged as a misdemeanor. However, if the act causes significant bodily injury to an officer, more serious charges may apply.
Related Practice Areas: Simple Assault Lawyer Washington, D.C. | Disorderly Conduct Lawyer Washington, D.C.
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Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.