- 201-686-9538
- 200 Passaic St. Hackensack, NJ 07601
Resisting Arrest- The Basics
Our resisting arrest lawyers are committed to fighting your criminal charges. You will benefit from our extensive trial experience. Most importantly, we will be honest about your chances of winning your case. We never guarantee results. However, we absolutely guarantee that we will aggressively fight for you!
Your resisting arrest case is as important to us as it is to you. Each case is different and we welcome the opportunity to protect & defend you.
When you hire us, you will get complete access to us. We respond to all communications & love answering questions. Our fees are reasonable and we offer payment plans.
Resisting Arrest Law - 2C:29-2
Under the New Jersey law (N.J.S.A. 2C:29-2), a person is guilty when he or she purposely prevents a law enforcement officer from effecting a lawful arrest. Here are some examples of resisting arrest:
- Deliberately stopping a police officer from making an arrest.
- Attempting to stop a police officer from making an arrest.
- Deliberately stopping or attempting to stop an arrest by fleeing the scene.
Resisting Arrest - Felony or Misdemeanor
Most typically, resisting arrest charges in New Jersey are Disorderly Persons Offenses (misdemeanors). These cases involve the police officer’s belief that you were “uncooperative” or “difficult” to arrest. Sometimes, you can get charged with resisting arrest because you argued or tried to talk your way out of your arrest.
A resisting arrest charge can become an Indictable (felony) case if you used “force” or “violence” against a police officer. You will usually be charged with Aggravated Assault in these situations.
Resisting Arrest Penalties
MISDEMEANOR PENALTIES
A misdemeanor resisting arrest charges in New Jersey carries up to six months in jail and up to a $1,000- fine.
If convicted, this crime will stay on your record for five years until it becomes eligible for expungement.
Other penalties include fines and community service.
FELONY PENALTIES
Fourth Degree Crime
Fine – Up to $10,000
Sentence – Up to 18 months in jail
Third Degree Crime
Fine – Up to $15,000
Sentence – Up to 5 years in prison
Second Degree Crime
Fine – Up to $150,000
Sentence – Up to 10 years in prison
Resisting Arrest - Am I Ever Allowed To Resist Arrest?
No. We know it’s humiliating, but it’s better to not resist. The police must clearly state their intention to make an arrest prior to doing so. (N.J.S.A. 2C:29-2.) Let us fight it in court.
Resisting Arrest - Defenses
This is a very difficult question to answer.
New Jersey law allows a police officer to make an “unlawful” arrest if it “appeared reasonable” at the time.
For example, you may get arrested under a “mistaken identity” situation. Someone with your name may have an arrest warrant and the police officer “reasonably believed” that you were the person that needed to be arrested.
Once we learn that your arrest was a mistake, we can get your criminal charges dismissed.
Resisting Arrest & Eluding
Eluding is similar to resisting arrest. But eluding usually occurs before you get arrested. Eluding charges involve “flight” or an attempt to “escape” from a police officer during a traffic stop.
Resisting Arrest & Obstruction of Justice
Again, here’s another charge that is similar to resisting arrest. Obstruction of Justice charges involves “interfering” with or “getting in the way” of a police officer’s investigation.
Our Experience
You or a loved one have been arrested. Understandably, you are terrified & have a lot of questions. You’ve heard about plea bargains & probation, but the process is overwhelming. You want a local attorney near you to represent you.
Mr. Peyrouton is from Ridgewood & handles all types of criminal matters in New Jersey The New Jersey Law Journal recently published one of his articles on the subject of criminal law.
How We Can Help
Regardless of the criminal charges you are facing, we are here to defend & protect you. Whether you are facing a restraining order, drug charge, theft charge, or aggravated assault charge, we are here to help you. Even a DWI case can really complicate your life.
If we can’t get your charges dismissed, we can either get them downgraded or place you in a diversionary program. The point is, our criminal defense lawyers will fight tirelessly to get you the best result possible. Take advantage of our free consultation to see how we can help.
Our Practice Areas
Below, you will find a few of our practice areas.
Areas We Serve
Our Hackensack criminal lawyers represent clients in Bergen County & nearby counties & cities.
Get Help With Your Case
How Do Your Free Consultations Work?
There are plenty of excellent Hackensack criminal lawyers in our area. Most, if not all of them, offer free, 20-minute, consultations. However, our free consultations do not have a time limit. You will never feel rushed.
The best way for us to help you is to patiently listen to your side of the story. Your version of events will serve as the basis for your legal defense. It is during these initial meetings that your memory of the event is fresh in your mind. Why we would rush you during such an important aspect of your case.
We understand that your choice of attorney could mean the difference between your freedom and spending years behind bars.
When you hire an attorney, you are entering a long-term relationship. For this reason, it is important that you feel comfortable with the team of Hackensack criminal lawyers that will represent you.
What our clients say about us
Melissa d
00:29 06 Jan 22
Chung Lin
03:35 12 Nov 21
Alexandra Pena
01:03 22 Oct 21
From the very start of hiring Mr. Peyrouton to represent my son’s case in court, he reassured me that he and Samera would be available at any time if I had any questions or concerns along the way and he followed through on that. I am very satisfied with his services and the outcome of the case. He went above and beyond by also making sure there would be no legal long-term repercussions for my son. I appreciate his swift handling of the whole situation...I most definitely recommend Peyrouton Law!!
Gloria Brown
20:40 13 Sep 21
I spoke with Samira and she is the best. I can't think her enough for her time and understanding. I was so lost about this case thats hurting me and my family. I truly thank her not many will explain nor take the time without a fee. Samira if you ever become an attorney... You Are Hired 👊👍 I thank this firm for having a great person on their team.
Raul Yas
18:24 07 Sep 21
Alan was incredible in helping me interpret and understand a real estate related business agreement that required my attention. I simply could not have done it with out him. The service was very speedy and attentive. I highly recommend Peyrouton Law for your legal needs.
Johanna Mejia
17:49 03 Sep 21
Stephen Hanley
15:24 03 Aug 21
I spoke with a wonderful woman named Samira she was extremely informative. Handled the matter I called her about professionally and quick. She quoted me a very reasonable price for the work their firm would have to do. I would recommend this law office for anyone looking for a good lawyer.
Daniel Tirado
00:51 27 Jun 21
I am just so appreciative Peyrouton Law was able to help me through this tough time. I Am extremely satisfied and would definitely recommend them to anyone stuck in this same situation.
Jose Akamacho23
09:34 04 Jun 21
Samera is by far the best woman for the job. Almost immediately as I called the office she handled it very efficient and got the job done. I recommend for any tickets you have. She is very responsive and has the answers to any question you have, just in general a woman of her word and a great person overall! The process was very patient and well done.
chris conforti
21:29 01 Jun 21
Samera pays attention to every detail regarding your case. She was very responsive and always there with the answers to any questions you may have. Alan was very professional and knowledgeable about all aspects in regards to my simple assault case. He was always responsive to phone calls and had all the right answers. Case was dismissed in court!