What Is Obstruction Of Justice?

When someone is under oath, they are required by law to tell the truth. When it is uncovered that they might not have been fully transparent, they can be charged with obstruction of justice. Sapone & Petrillo, LLP, has worked with clients throughout New York dealing with these situations. These cases can be tremendously complex and difficult to understand. Having a skilled lawyer by your side is the best way to get yourself over this hurdle.

The Penalties Could Impact Your Future

When a client testifies to a grand jury, agent or prosecutor, they are told that they must be honest. Unfortunately, that doesn’t always happen. It’s also possible to be charged with obstruction of justice if you have influenced a juror, retaliated against a witness or tampered with a victim. The consequences for these crimes could lead to fines or jail time. The time behind bars ranges from five years to 10 years, depending on the case. The court is very specific about these charges, which is why it is important that you have an attorney present.

These cases are brought about in different ways, based on the specifics of the circumstances. In general, the prosecutor does not have to prove any actual obstruction. They just have to show that there was an attempt to obstruct justice. The mere intention is enough. That in itself is enough to get a guilty verdict. This is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it is easy to throw these accusations around. On the other hand, it is difficult to prove. When it comes to evidence, some might use recorded conversations and written letters. Having a strong defense attorney is crucial as these cases are rarely cut and dried.

Trust A Reliable, Communicative Attorney

If you find yourself in this situation, it is important not to panic. Our team is professional, empathetic and honest. We will always be upfront with you about where your expectations should be. Furthermore, we will do everything we can to defend your rights. Communication, in these cases, is key. The best way to protect your future is to discuss your options with a knowledgeable lawyer sooner rather than later.