Legal Guidance for Students at Drexel Accused of Resisting Arrest

When you’re pursuing your education at a prestigious institution like Drexel University, facing criminal charges can feel overwhelming and threaten your academic future. Understanding your rights and available legal defenses is crucial for protecting both your immediate freedom and long-term career prospects.

Understanding Resisting Arrest and Its Legal Implications

What Constitutes Resisting Arrest

Resisting arrest occurs when someone attempts to prevent or interfere with a law enforcement officer’s lawful attempt to make an arrest. This broad definition can encompass various behaviors, from physically struggling against handcuffs to verbally threatening an officer during the arrest process.

Potential Risks and Escalating Charges

The situation becomes more complex when additional allegations arise during the arrest process. If authorities claim you caused physical harm to an officer or civilian while resisting, the charges can quickly escalate beyond a simple resisting arrest accusation. A skilled Johnstown federal lawyer can help evaluate these circumstances and build an appropriate defense strategy.

Professional Legal Defense Services

Customized Defense Approaches

Every resisting arrest case presents unique circumstances that require individualized attention. The Logue Law Group of Johnstown criminal attorneys understands that Drexel University students face particular challenges when dealing with criminal charges, including potential academic consequences and future career implications.

Complimentary Legal Consultation

Students facing these serious allegations can schedule a free initial consultation to discuss their case. Contact the Logue Law Group of Sean Logue at 844.PITT.DUI or through their online platform to begin exploring your legal options with an experienced Johnstown federal lawyer.

Pennsylvania’s Resisting Arrest Laws

Legal Definition and Scope

Pennsylvania law defines resisting arrest as any action that interferes with a “public servant” while they perform lawful arrest duties or related official responsibilities. This definition extends beyond typical police encounters and can include interactions with various government officials.

Who Qualifies as a Public Servant

The term “public servant” encompasses a wide range of officials, including:

• Local police officers
• Federal law enforcement agents
• State government employees
• Judicial officials
• Members of the General Assembly

Additional Criminal Circumstances

Beyond simply preventing a lawful arrest, certain actions can result in enhanced charges. Causing significant injury to an official or engaging in behavior that requires substantial force for restraint may lead to additional criminal allegations. When a public servant suffers injuries, defendants might face serious violent crime charges, including assault. The best way to do that is hire a Johnstown federal lawyer.

Available Defense Strategies

Medical or Mental Health Considerations

A qualified Johnstown criminal attorney can argue that specific medical conditions or mental health issues prevented proper compliance with police commands during the arrest attempt. This defense strategy requires thorough documentation and expert testimony to establish its validity.

Questioning Officer Authority

If the arresting individual lacked proper law enforcement authority, such as an ordinary citizen attempting to detain someone, then traditional resisting arrest charges may not apply. Defendants have the right to protect themselves from unlawful detention attempts by unauthorized persons.

Challenging the Underlying Arrest

When the original arrest lacks proper justification or legal foundation, any resistance charges become questionable. If evidence shows the initial arrest was unlawful or based on false accusations, this can serve as a strong defense against resisting arrest allegations.

Potential Consequences for University Students

Criminal Classification in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania classifies resisting arrest as a second-degree misdemeanor. While less severe than first-degree charges, this classification carries more serious penalties than third-degree misdemeanor offenses.

Sentencing Possibilities

Students convicted of resisting arrest may face:

• Prison sentences up to two years
• Financial penalties reaching $5,000
• Permanent criminal record implications

Enhanced Penalties for Officer Injuries

When resistance results in law enforcement injuries, the charges can escalate significantly. Depending on injury severity, students might face either enhanced misdemeanor charges or felony accusations, each carrying substantially increased penalties.

Immediate Legal Assistance for Drexel Students

Time-Sensitive Nature of Criminal Defense

Criminal charges require immediate attention to preserve important evidence and protect your constitutional rights. Delaying legal representation can limit available defense options and potentially impact case outcomes.

Experienced Criminal Defense Representation

If you or someone you know at Drexel University faces resisting arrest charges, contact an experienced Johnstown federal lawyer immediately. Attorney Sean Logue brings extensive criminal defense experience and maintains a strong commitment to representing students facing serious allegations.

Getting Started with Your Defense

To discuss your case during a complimentary consultation, contact Logue Law Group at 844.PITT.DUI. Taking prompt action with qualified legal representation can make a significant difference in your case outcome and future opportunities. And that’s why you need to seek help from a Johnstown criminal attorney right away.