Resisting arrest occurs when an individual willfully resists, tries to delay, or obstructs a law enforcement officer from carrying out an official legal duty, but a Las Vegas resisting arrest attorney can build a strong defense case for you. The types of actions that can result in a resisting arrest charge include:
- Moving around while an officer attempts to handcuff you
- Cursing at officers while they are trying to give you an order or talk with you
- Trying to run away when you are put under arrest
- Attempting to grab an officer’s weapon
Penalties for Resisting Arrest in Las Vegas, NV
If you are charged with resisting arrest, it is important that you retain the counsel of an experienced Las Vegas criminal defense attorney, because you face serious consequences. Resisting arrest can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony depending upon the circumstances, and likewise the penalties for a criminal conviction will vary based upon the factors involved in the alleged crime.
Resisting Arrest, No Weapons Involved
If your offense did not involve weapons of any kind, you will be charged with a misdemeanor. The possible penalties include:
- Up to 6 months in county jail, and/or
- Fines up to $1,000
Resisting Arrest Involving Firearms
If you used a firearm or attempted to take a Las Vegas officer’s firearm while resisting arrest, you will be charged with a Category C Felony. The possible penalties include:
- 1 to 5 years in state prison
- Fines up to $10,000
Resisting Arrest Involving Other Weapons
If you used a weapon that is not a firearm while resisting arrest or attempted to take an officer’s weapon while resisting arrest, you will be charged with a Category D Felony in Las Vegas. The possible penalties include:
- 1 to 4 years in state prison
- Fines up to $5,000
Battering an Officer While Resisting Arrest
If you used physical force to harm an officer while resisting arrest, you could face additional charges for Battery on a Las Vegas Police Officer. The penalties will depend upon the factors involved in the incident.
- If the offense does not result in substantial bodily harm: a Gross Misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in county jail and fines up to $2,000
- If the offense does result in substantial bodily harm: a Category B Felony, punishable by 2 to 10 years in state prison and fines up to $10,000
What to Do If You’ve Been Charged with Resisting Arrest
If you are accused of resisting arrest and now face increased charges, call De Castroverde Law Group at (702) 222-9999. Our experienced defense team can provide the aggressive and strategic representation you need. We can thoroughly investigate the circumstances to find weaknesses in the prosecutor’s case and build a strong defense that effectively challenges the charges.
A Las Vegas resisting arrest attorney knows that you have a lot on the line; when you hire our firm, you can be confident that you will receive nothing less than the outstanding representation you deserve. Contact us today to learn more about our services and your defense options!