Obstruction of Justice Attorneys

Being charged with obstruction of justice in New Jersey is serious. Even a minor incident, such as interfering with a police officer asking questions or providing misleading information during an investigation, can result in criminal penalties. Obstruction charges often occur alongside other offenses, and a conviction can carry long-term consequences for your record, employment, and personal life.

At Lackey & Miller, LLC, our New Jersey criminal defense attorneys are former prosecutors with more than 20 years of combined experience as former prosecutors. We have successfully defended clients facing obstruction charges in Camden, Burlington, Gloucester, Atlantic, Cumberland, and Salem Counties, and throughout New Jersey, and we are prepared to aggressively protect your rights in municipal or superior court.

What Is Obstruction of Justice?

Under N.J.S.A. 2C:29-1, obstruction of justice occurs when a person intentionally:

• Interferes with law enforcement officers during an investigation or arrest.
• Provides false information to police, prosecutors, or the courts.
• Hinders or delays the administration of justice, including destroying evidence or intimidating witnesses.

Obstruction can arise in many situations, including traffic stops, domestic investigations, or criminal investigations of any type.

Penalties for Obstruction

Obstruction of justice is typically charged as a disorderly persons offense, but it can be charged as a fourth-degree crime, depending on the circumstances and severity of the interference.

• Fourth-degree obstruction – When you obstruct the detection or investigation of a crime or the prosecution of a person for a crime. Punishable by up to 18 months in prison.
• Disorderly persons obstruction – Usually interfering with a minor offense, such as false information during a traffic stop or a simple assault. Punishable by up to 6 months in jail and fines.

A conviction, even for a disorderly persons offense, can appear on your criminal record and affect your employment, housing, and professional opportunities.

Obstruction Cases in New Jersey

Obstruction charges are common across Camden, Burlington, Gloucester, Atlantic, Cumberland, and Salem Counties, often arising in contexts such as:

• Interfering with police during a traffic stop or arrest.
• Providing misleading information in investigations in Cherry Hill, Pennsauken, or Mount Laurel.
• Destroying or concealing evidence during criminal investigations in Atlantic City or Deptford Township.
• Attempting to intimidate witnesses or co-defendants in ongoing cases.

Our attorneys know the local prosecutors and judges and can navigate these cases strategically to protect your rights.

Defense Against Obstruction Charges

Obstruction cases can often be challenged based on intent, evidence, or procedural issues. Possible defenses include:

• Lack of intent – Accidental or unknowing actions do not meet the legal definition.
• Challenging the evidence – Weak witness statements, video evidence, or circumstantial claims can be attacked.
• Mistaken identify – Alleged interference may be wrongly attributed.
• Procedural errors – Illegal search or improper police procedures can lead to dismissal.
• Negotiation or diversion – In some cases, first-time offenders may qualify for conditional dismissal programs.

Why Choose Lackey & Miller, LLC for Obstruction Defense?

• Former Prosecutors – We know the tactics the State uses and can identify weaknesses.
• Trial Experience – While many obstruction cases can be resolved without trial, we are fully prepared to fight in court if necessary.
• South Jersey Knowledge – We have extensive experience in Camden, Burlington, Gloucester, Atlantic, Cumberland, and Salem Counties.
• Personalized Defense – We develop strategies tailored to your case, focusing on protecting your record and future.

Call Our New Jersey Criminal Defense Firm Today

Facing obstruction charges in New Jersey is serious, and immediate action is critical. Our attorneys at Lackey & Miller, LLC can evaluate your case, identify the strongest defenses, and fight to minimize or dismiss charges.

Call today for a free consultation to protect your rights and your future.