PL 195.35 · Article 195
Obstructing Governmental Administration
This charge applies when you use unlawful means, or no means at all, to intentionally prevent a public servant — usually a police officer — from performing a duty such as an arrest or an investigation.
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Text us immediately · (845) 290-2492What the prosecutor must prove
- You intended to prevent a public servant from performing an official duty.
- You used an unlawful act, or an omission that made the duty impossible or seriously more difficult.
Defenses that commonly apply
- There was no intent to obstruct — you were exercising a lawful right.
- Your conduct did not actually hinder the officer's duty.
- The officer was not performing an authorized duty.
Penalties and collateral consequences
A Class B Misdemeanor carries a maximum sentence of up to 3 months and a fine of up to Up to $500.
Every case turns on its own facts. The information on this page is general, not legal advice.
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