Naples Attorney:
Defining and Defending Against Obstruction Charges
The definition of some crimes is fairly straightforward with very few variations and exceptions. For others, the definitions, variations, exceptions and provisions are as confusing as quantum physics. Working with a Naples defense attorney can take some of the confusion out of the proceedings when the charge is obstruction of justice.
Obstruction is an umbrella charge, meaning there are many crimes that can be committed and fall under this charge. From something as simple as installing and using the wrong color of lights on your vehicle to other, more serious crimes, obstruction can quickly turn into a higher level crime, or worse still, can be compounded with other crimes.
Your first call to a Naples criminal Attorney should give a basic outline of what the original crime is, and where you stand in the disposition of the case. If you have been newly arrested, the defense attorney can work toward getting you bonded out of jail and then work with you toward the next step in the case. In most instances, it will be the goal of the Florida criminal lawyer to get resolution before having to go to trial.
The next step will be to determine if you were willfully obstructing or if it was simple lack of knowledge that caused you to be accused of a crime. Remember however, ignorance of the law is no defense, so do not think that you can simply shrug your shoulders and say I didn't know and be sent home with a stern warning. For some obstruction cases, pleading guilty and then adding that you were unaware of the law may get you a lesser fine or a suspended sentence
Having a Naples attorney argue your case, may prevent you from having to go to trial, especially for the lesser charges where the penalty is a fine and nothing more. On the other hand, if you are being charged with a crime that could possibly be rolled over into a bigger one, it might be in your best interest to take a plea agreement before that happens. The attorney will let you know what your best options are after reading through the entire case and seeing where the prosecutor's case stands.