- 201-766-4800
- 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
Bank Sinatra
23:07 15 Oct 20
Not going to get into detailBut I spoke to a femaleBy the name of SameraWho really helped me see things clearer& Understand my rightsSo I could weigh my optionsAlan came in & he's what I call no nenseStraight down to businessNot Guilty when it's finishedJust wanted to publicly sayThey're the best that I've witnessedThis my 1st reviewNot somethin I'd typically doBut other ppl in my shoes would've plead out to 2Paid double the fees & the retainerSalute to them I'm not a detainerAnd I'm home wit my family rappin for strangers lol
Matthew Jenner
21:28 14 Oct 20
Alan and his team were professional and competent. Alan was always available to offer advice and answer any questions I had. I will recommend Peyrouton Law to friends and family in the future.
Lissette Guzman
18:15 14 Oct 20
One word for this firm OUTSTANDING!!
Ronald Yee
00:27 06 Oct 20
Outstanding is the only word that not even comes close to both Mr. Alan Peyrouton, Esq. and Office Manager/Paralegal Ms. Samera Cerva!Although the infraction could have been not only a fine plus incarceration,Mr. Alan negotiated to a fine and settlement of one- half of what was listed as the usual cash amount. Indeed, this law firm gave constant "Personal Touch," and for which there are no words in the English language which can properly convey my thoughts of appreciation.Whenever there was a question and doubt about anything, this law firm answered every question. No additional charges were attached with any telephone call and/or E-mail sent!Advice was also given how to EXPUNGE this legal issue and will continue with the Peyrouton Law Firm until records removal.One can not go wrong by selecting this Exceptional Law Firm.Exceptional Value, Personal Service, Professionalism, Etc. All: Outstanding!!Respectfully submitted,Ronald Yee- Continuing Client.
Rock'd
19:42 19 Aug 20
For many like myself, finding a good lawyer is a must. I was caught in a situation I shouldn't have been in, and Alan was recommended to me through a friend. I'm forever grateful to have found Alan, because most lawyers wont fight tooth and nail to make sure you get the best deal or outcome. Alan was more than patient with me and assured me he would do all he can, and he exceeded my expectations. Thank you Alan!
미셀줌마michell-zoomma
22:04 03 Aug 20
알란 변호사를 만나게 된것은인생의 최고의 행운이었습니다. 아주 프로페셔날하고 빠른 일처리로 최고의 만족스러운 결과를 만들어준 알란에게 큰 감사를 드립니다.좀더 많은 한국분들이 도움을 받았으면 좋겠네요.형사전문과 더불어 이민법과 연결해서 최상의 결과를 만들어 줍니다.I was really lucky to find Alan. At first call, I trust him while we talk about my case. He made best result in my case. Alan is the best criminal lawyer in New Jersey. Thank you Alan and his team(specially Samera).Thank you again in my whole life.this is another thank you to alan(from my email)Dear Alan,I couldn't say thank you enough this morning. Now I realized how big of an issue it was.I believed you and trusted you when I was in NJ so I never doubted that I would possibly go to jail.Thank you for everything. There will be more to go but thank you again.I am holding my tears back until my hubby comes back home.See you soon!Michelle😍😭
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13:21 03 Aug 20
His the best abogado que he conocido se los recomiendo a todas personas super amable super bueno
Dom O
00:36 01 Aug 20
I’m very grateful for all the hard work and effort Peyrouton Law put fourth in my case! Alan is a lawyer who cares and strives to get the best outcome for all of his clients ! He’s like a dog with a bone, he never gives up on you !During the most stressful time in my life they were there for me, fighting for me all the way. Texts to see how me and my family and to keep me informed of all overwhelming court business. I know if I didn’t have Peyrouton Law on my side I wouldn’t have found a better lawyer to help with everything like they did. Anyone who needs a help, compassion at more than reasonable law fees, you couldn’t find a better lawyer !!
Jerry Rivera
02:18 29 Jul 20
Very professional ! Since I called they were very helpful and help me with the case right away , very sincere law firm , when they are talking about the case you feel like they are part of you family and want the best for you , always tells you the truth. I recommend them 100%
ceci Liu
01:43 25 Jul 20
they are very professional and very helpful team. I got traffic ticket and to be able to reduce to 0 point and affordable fine. It was during covid time and Samera helps me a lot through phone calls and emails. Samera is very responsive and easy to approach. Alan is great and friendly. truly appreciate for all the help and patience.