Resisting arrest is a misdemeanor offense in Jefferson County, CO that involves a person preventing a police officer from executing an arrest. This past winter, a Colorado man was charged with resisting arrest after colliding with a police car and refusing to follow commands post-accident. Among other charges of driving under the influence, obstructing a peace officer, and also reckless driving, the man's lack of cooperation with law enforcement is an example of how certain behaviors can escalate to a charge. Consulting an experienced resisting arrest attorney can prove invaluable in forming a strong defense.

What is Considered Resisting Arrest in Lakewood, CO?

C.R.S. 18-8-103 defines the behaviors of resisting arrest in Colorado. Someone commits this crime in Lakewood, CO when they:

• knowingly prevent or attempt to prevent a peace officer,
• from performing an arrest,
• by using or threatening to use physical violence or force,
• or by using any other means that could result in bodily injury

The question of unlawful arrest can sometimes come up when defining the act of resisting an arrest. It is particularly important to note that we are all required to cooperate with an arrest. However, we have the right to object at a later time. With that being said, if an officer is off-duty, using excessive force, or you act in self-defense or defense of another, details exist that should be discussed with a resisting arrest attorney.

How Much Jail Time Can You Get for Resisting Arrest?

Resisting arrest is a class 2 misdemeanor in Littleton, and throughout Colorado. Resisting arrest penalties can be in addition to those of the underlying crime. As a class 2 misdemeanor, ramifications can include 3 – 12 months in county jail, as well as a fine of $250 – $1,000. Additionally, in situations where resisting arrest included the intent or did cause bodily injury to a police officer, a more serious conviction of second degree assault can result.

Jefferson County Criminal Defense Attorney | Police Involved Crimes

While we offer many suggestions as to how to respond to law enforcement, perhaps the most critical include those in police involved crimes. Anything and everything you do in the presence of a police officer can have a particularly significant impact on the outcome of a case. Therefore, it is crucial to exercise your right to remain silent, stay calm, and be smart. Instinctively, many people attempt to talk themselves out of a situation, become defense, or verbally / physically aggressive. Behavior like this will simply not help you. If you lost your cool with a police officer or made some poor choices, contact us for a free consultation. We will carefully analyze your unique situation and advise next steps.

If you or someone you know is facing resisting arrest charges, be smart. Contact the proven defense lawyers at Sawyer Legal Group at 303-830-0880. Together, we can protect your future.

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