What happens if I resist arrest in New Jersey?

No one wants to find themselves in a situation where they have to resist arrest, but sometimes, things can escalate quickly. First, however, it’s important to understand the potential consequences of resisting arrest in New Jersey, which is considered a criminal offense.Under New Jersey law,resisting arrest occurs when an individual knowingly prevents, obstructs or resists a law enforcement officer from effecting an arrest. This can include physical force, such as pushing or striking the officer, as well as verbal resistance, such as refusing to comply with the officer’s instructions. Resisting arrest can also occur if an individual attempts to flee from a law enforcement officer attempting to make an arrest.

Potential penalties for resisting arrest in New Jersey

If an individual is charged and convicted of resisting arrest in New Jersey, they may face significant penalties. The severity of the penalties will depend on several factors, including:The level of force used: If an individual uses physical force to resist arrest, they may be charged with aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, a more serious offense that can carry harsher penalties. The circumstances of the arrest: If an individual resists arrest during the commission of another crime, such as a robbery or assault, the penalties may be more severe than when resisting arrest for a minor offense.Prior Criminal Record: If an individual has a history of criminal activity, the penalties for resisting arrest may be harsher than if they have no prior record.Injuries to the Law Enforcement Officer: If the law enforcement officer is injured during the arrest, the penalties for resisting arrest may be more severe. The degree of the injury and the individual’s intent can impact the charges’ severity.Resisting arrest is a serious offense in New Jersey that can result in significant penalties, including fines, imprisonment and a criminal record. If you are facing charges of resisting arrest in New Jersey, consider seeking legal assistance to help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights.