How Much Prison Time Do You Get for Obstruction of Federal Investigations?

At Spodek Law Group, we understand the seriousness of facing charges for obstruction of justice in a federal investigation. If you or someone you know has been accused of impeding a federal inquiry, it's crucial to understand the potential consequences and seek experienced legal representation immediately.

What Constitutes Obstruction of Justice?

Obstruction of justice is an umbrella term encompassing various actions intended to interfere with the proper administration of the legal system. In the context of federal investigations, obstruction may include:

• Knowingly making false statements to investigators
• Concealing or destroying evidence
• Tampering with witnesses through threats or bribes
• Retaliating against informants or witnesses

Essentially, any deliberate attempt to hinder the fact-finding process or influence the outcome of a federal investigation could be construed as obstruction of justice.

Federal Sentencing Guidelines for Obstruction

The penalties for obstruction of justice in federal cases can be severe. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, obstruction is punishable by up to 5 years in prison, depending on the specific circumstances of the offense. Source: United States Sentencing CommissionIt's important to note that an obstruction charge can be brought independently or in addition to charges for an underlying crime. When applied as an enhancement to another offense, obstruction can add anywhere from 15 to 68 months to a defendant's total sentence.

Aggravating Factors

The severity of the punishment for obstruction often depends on the scope and impact of the defendant's actions. Factors that can lead to harsher sentences include:

• The level of planning involved in the obstructive conduct
• Whether the obstruction resulted in substantial interference with the administration of justice
• If the offense involved threatening or causing physical injury to witnesses or investigators
• The defendant's role and extent of participation in the obstruction

Our attorneys have extensive experience evaluating the nuances of each case to determine the most effective defense strategies. We work tirelessly to protect our clients' rights and pursue the best possible outcome given the unique facts of their situation.

Defending Against Obstruction Charges

If you've been charged with obstruction of justice, it's essential to mount a vigorous defense as early as possible in the process. Some potential strategies our firm may employ include:

• Challenging the government's evidence and arguing that your actions do not meet the legal definition of obstruction
• Demonstrating that any false statements were made unknowingly or unintentionally
• Showing that your conduct did not materially impede the investigation
• Negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges or a more lenient sentence in exchange for cooperation

Ultimately, the approach we take will be tailored to the distinctive aspects of your case. Our goal is always to achieve a dismissal of charges or, if that's not feasible, to mitigate the consequences to the greatest extent possible.

The Importance of Experienced Representation

Navigating the federal criminal justice system is immensely challenging, especially when facing charges as serious as obstruction. You need a skilled defense team on your side to protect your freedom and future.At Spodek Law Group, we have a proven track record of success in handling complex federal cases. Our attorneys include former prosecutors who understand how the other side thinks and can anticipate their tactics. We leave no stone unturned in building the strongest possible defense for each client we serve.If you or a loved one has been accused of obstruction in a federal investigation, don't wait to seek legal advice. Contact us today at 212-300-5196 for a confidential consultation. Together, we can work towards securing the most favorable resolution to your case.