Denton Criminal Lawyer

Obstruction of Justice

More so than regular citizens, elected officials are expected to uphold the law and to pursue justice. However, personal feelings, accidental destruction of evidence, and even simple confusion about a crime can lead to obstruction of justice charges. Judges, district attorneys, and other elected officials can all be charged with this crime.

As an elected official, an obstruction of justice charge—or any other crime—can have serious repercussions for your career and your plans for the future. Thus, it is important that you defend your rights against these charges. To discuss your case, contact a tenacious Denton criminal defense attorney from Alexander & Associates today at 972-420-6560.

What Counts as Obstruction of Justice?

There are many forms of obstruction of justice as long as the action somehow inhibits the work of law enforcement officials in pursuit of information, evidence, or other items involving a crime. Things that count as obstruction of justice include:

• Lying during an investigation
• Feigning illness to avoid questioning
• Destroying evidence even if it is not yet needed
• Attempting to bribe a witness
• Threatening or attempting to bribe a judge

Of course, people who are questioned during an investigation have the right to remain silent and can only be forced to answer questions if subpoenaed.

The Omnibus Clause

The omnibus clause of obstruction of justice gives law enforcement a wide reach in pursing this crime. It proclaims a person guilty of obstruction of justice if they attempt to force false testimony or provide false testimony, or alter, attempt to alter, hide, or destroy evidence. Basically, you can be charged with this crime even if you only attempt to avoid or obstruct justice, not actually succeed.

Contact Us

For elected officials, obstruction of justice charges can be severely detrimental to your career. If you have been wrongfully accused of obstruction of justice, you should not hesitate to fight back. Contact a determined Denton criminal defense lawyer from Alexander & Associates at 972-420-6560 today to learn more about your legal options.