When one is being taken into custody, it is almost natural to resist a police officer. If you interfere with officer’s attempt to conduct a lawful arrest, however, then you could incur additional charges. Many people associate resisting arrest with physical efforts to prevent an arrest from occurring, however; you can also be charged with resisting arrest for allegedly using deceptive means against an officer, taunting the officer, running away, or providing an officer with false information.
Officers in Georgia are permitted to arrest you if they observe that you committed a crime or have probable cause to believe that you did. They also may, of course, arrest you if they have a valid warrant. While making a lawful arrest, they may use force that is necessary to overcome your resistance.
Many people don’t realize is that resisting arrest will result in two separate criminal charges: charges for resisting arrest and charges for the original crime(s) committed. Furthermore, if you assaulted or harmed a police officer during the arrest, you will be charged with assaulting a peace officer. This could result in penalties of up to 20 years in jail, because it would count as aggravated assault. This includes the time up until you are in your jail cell.
All of these charges are very serious legal matters that will result in numerous penalties upon conviction. Because you are already facing criminal charges for a separate crime, resisting arrest will lead to an enhancement of your penalties. Furthermore, if you assaulted a police officer you will face felony charges, which will lead to an even larger increase in your penalties. Common penalties for resisting arrest include stiff fines, many hours of community service, restitution to the victim (if applicable), and time in jail or prison. To avoid these stiff penalties, get in touch with an Atlanta criminal lawyer from The Law Office of Judy Kim, PC.
Have you been charged with resisting arrest in Atlanta? If so, it is highly advised that you contact my firm. Law enforcement officials and prosecutors do not take well to people who interfere with their ability to do their job. You will need a criminal defense attorney who can reason with these people, and negotiate for a reduction or even a dismissal of your charges. My firm has defended countless clients facing charges for resisting arrest, and can protect your best interest throughout your case.
I will sit down with you to answer your questions, inform you of your options, and discuss the best legal approach to your case. In the courtroom, I will stand up for your rights and question whether or not the arresting officer had probable cause to arrest you in the first place. Above all, my main priority is helping you fight your criminal charges, whatever they may be, so you have the freedom to continue living your life.
Give us a call or fill out a free case evaluation to ensure that your rights are protected!