Examine the Actions Behind an Obstruction Charge.
- Obstructing legal process allegations
- Alleged resistance or interference
- The timing and nature of a police encounter
- Body-camera and other recordings
- Related disorderly-conduct or assault charges
- Relevant speech, detention, and search issues
Identify the Alleged Interference
A description such as uncooperative or obstructive does not replace analysis of the offense. Rob identifies the actions attributed to you, the officer’s activity, and the charged provision. The full sequence of events helps establish which factual and legal questions need attention.
Review the Recordings in Context
Body-camera footage, dispatch records, phone video, and witness accounts may show different perspectives. The defense examines what happened before, during, and after the alleged offense. A complete chronology can expose missing context and help test the account in the charging documents.
Evaluate Constitutional Issues Where They Apply
Some cases raise questions about speech, a detention, a search, or police authority. Those issues require analysis of the facts and governing law. Rob considers potential constitutional arguments alongside the ordinary evidentiary questions rather than assuming every difficult encounter presents the same defense.
Choose a Response That Serves Your Goals
Your priorities may include employment, your record, a related case, or the principle involved. Rob discusses those concerns when evaluating possible challenges and resolutions. The criminal defense and any potential civil-rights issue should be assessed with their separate objectives in view.
Questions About Obstructing Legal Process
Can Speech Be Relevant to My Defense?
Yes. The words, setting, conduct, and offense alleged all matter to the analysis. A First Amendment issue should be evaluated against the actual record and applicable law.
What If There Is Video of the Encounter?
Identify the recording and preserve information about where the complete version can be obtained. Rob can assess it with the reports, timeline, and other available evidence.
Is a Criminal Defense the Same as a Civil Rights Claim?
No. Challenging a criminal charge and pursuing a civil claim involve different questions and remedies. The consultation can identify both concerns and the review each may require.
Discuss your goals and the next steps in a free initial consultation with Rob Doar.