Resisting Arrest Lawyer Washington County — What Are Your Defenses?
Resisting arrest in Washington County is a Class A misdemeanor under NY Penal Law § 205.30, carrying up to 1 year in jail. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for charges heard at Washington County Criminal Court. Our firm-wide experience includes 4,739+ documented case results. If you need a resisting arrest lawyer near me Washington County, contact us for a consultation.
New York Resisting Arrest Law
In New York, resisting arrest is defined under Penal Law § 205.30. The statute makes it a crime to intentionally prevent or attempt to prevent a police officer or peace officer from effecting an authorized arrest of yourself or another person. The prosecution must prove that the arrest was authorized and that your actions were intentional. An experienced resisting arrest lawyer Washington County can challenge whether the underlying arrest was lawful, which is a common defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | Washington County Criminal Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to NY Penal Law § 205.30 (official New York State Senate website). For local court procedures, visit the Washington County Courts website.
Washington County Court Process for Resisting Arrest
Resisting arrest cases in Washington County are handled in Criminal Court. New York’s 2020 bail reform means most defendants facing this misdemeanor are released on their own recognizance. The court frequently considers Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) for first-time offenses, which can lead to a dismissal after a period of good behavior.
- Receive a Desk Appearance Ticket (DAT) or be arraigned within 24 hours of arrest.
- Consult with a resisting arrest lawyer Washington County to review the arrest report and charges.
- Attend all court dates at Washington County Criminal Court; missing a date results in a bench warrant.
- Your attorney may negotiate for an ACD, a violation plea, or prepare for trial to challenge the officer’s account.
- If convicted, sentencing may include probation, fines, or jail time; an attorney can argue for minimal penalties.
- Explore record sealing options, such as under CPL § 160.59, after the waiting period.
Potential Penalties for Resisting Arrest in New York
In Washington County, resisting arrest is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail, 3 years of probation, and a fine of up to $1,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resisting Arrest (PL § 205.30) | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | None directly | Permanent criminal record, possible probation, immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Resisting Arrest Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience, our firm has a documented track record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide. We understand that a resisting arrest charge often stems from a chaotic situation, and we build defenses focused on the specifics of the police interaction and the legality of the underlying stop or arrest.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific locality results are not listed, our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We actively represent clients in Washington County and across New York. For example, our team, including secondary attorney Matthew Greene who has 30+ years of experience and a former CPS contract, works to secure dismissals, reductions to non-criminal violations, or favorable plea agreements.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Washington County Resisting Arrest Lawyers
Our New York location serves clients in Washington County. We are accessible from I-87, I-90, and Route 9. We provide an affordable resisting arrest lawyer Washington County option with clear fee structures. Serving Fort Edward, Hudson Falls, Greenwich, Cambridge, Granville, Salem, Whitehall, and Kingsbury.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is resisting arrest a felony in Washington County, NY?
No. Basic resisting arrest under PL § 205.30 is a Class A misdemeanor in Washington County. However, if you cause serious physical injury to an officer, it can be charged as a felony.
Can I get an ACD for a resisting arrest charge in Washington County?
It depends. Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) is often available for first-time, non-violent misdemeanor offenses in Washington County Criminal Court. An attorney can argue that the charge qualifies, skilled to a dismissal after 6-12 months with no new arrests.
What is the best defense against a resisting arrest charge?
The most common defense is that the underlying arrest was unlawful. If the officer lacked probable cause, your resistance may be justified. Other defenses include lack of intent or mistaken identity. A resisting arrest lawyer Washington County can evaluate the evidence.
Will I go to jail for resisting arrest in New York?
Not necessarily. For a first-time Class A misdemeanor, jail is possible but not mandatory. Washington County courts often impose probation, community service, or fines. An experienced attorney works to avoid jail time.
How can I find an affordable resisting arrest lawyer Washington County?
Contact our firm. We offer clear consultations to discuss your case and fee options. We believe in providing accessible legal defense and can discuss payment structures during your initial call.
For more information, see our New York Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist with related charges like assault or disorderly conduct in Washington County. For other legal needs, consider our Washington County family law services.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.