resisting arrest

Resisting arrest is a crime in the state of New Jersey. Typically, it is considered a disorderly persons offense, but depending on the circumstances, it could be a third- or fourth-degree crime. If you have been charged with resisting arrest, call your local New Jersey attorney, Leon Matchin. He has more than ten years of experience helping people get their charges downgraded or dismissed. Read on for more information about what type of penalties are associated with a resisting arrest charge.

Disorderly Persons Offense

Most resisting arrest charges fall under the disorderly persons offense category. The penalties include paying an assessment of about $125 to the Victims of Crime Compensation Board and the Safe Neighborhood Services Fund. An additional fine of up to $1,000 may also be owed. Jail time is also a penalty. You may face up to six months in jail for resisting an arrest.

Fourth-Degree Crime

The charge moves from a disorderly persons offense to a fourth-degree crime when you try to prevent the arrest by running from the police. Because of this, the penalties are a lot more severe in this case. You may owe up to $10,000 in fines and also face up to 18 months of jail time. You may also face restitution, community service, and probation. 

Third-Degree Crime

The charge gets bumped to a third-degree crime when there is a threat of a violent act or a threat of physical force against the police officer. This could be verbal or physical resistance. In this case, you could owe up to $15,000 in fines and face up to five years in jail.

Have You Been Charged With Resisting Arrest?

As summarized above, the penalties associated with resisting arrest can be harsh.  Typically, they are classified as a disorderly persons offense, but can be bumped up to a fourth- or third-degree crime based on the severity of the situation. As a result, resisting arrest is a criminal charge that will end up on your record. Unfortunately, this can affect getting into the military, applying for future jobs, or getting into college.

It can seem very overwhelming if you or a loved one is charged with resisting arrest. Not only do you have to deal with the charges of the original reason for the arrest, but you must also deal with the charge for resisting the arrest. Luckily, Leon Matchin, your local New Jersey attorney, is here to help. He has helped many clients through the process of being charged with resisting arrest. Call Leon Matchin at 732-887-2479 or contact him via email at [email protected] for more information about resisting arrest charges.