Resisting Arrest and Obstructing Police
Resisting arrest and obstructing police offences involve allegations that a person has interfered with police performing their duties, either by struggling during an arrest, refusing lawful directions or preventing officers from carrying out an investigation. Many people want to understand how these offences are defined, what actions may be considered obstruction and how intent, force and communication with police are assessed.
This page outlines the general issues that may arise and explains how Law Tram provides a secure and obligation-free way to connect with licensed Australian lawyers who can discuss your circumstances confidentially.
What happens if you're charged with resisting or obstructing police?
Resisting arrest and obstructing police are common charges that often arise during tense or confusing situations. You don’t need to physically attack a police officer to be charged. Simply refusing to cooperate, delaying a lawful arrest or interfering with police duties can be enough.
These offences may be laid on their own or added to more serious charges such as assault, drug possession, public order offences or domestic violence matters. Even if the underlying charge is dropped, resisting arrest or hindering police may still proceed to court.
Law Tram connects you with lawyers who can assess the situation, explain whether the police acted lawfully and help you respond strategically.
Law Tram's Legal Partners can assist with these charges, including:
- Resisting arrest or using force to avoid police detention
- Obstructing or hindering police during the course of duty
- Advising on police powers and whether they were exercised lawfully
- Charges for refusing to provide details or comply with directions
- Allegations of assaulting or intimidating a police officer
- Challenging evidence including CCTV, body-worn camera or witness statements
- Representing you in court or negotiating withdrawal of the charge
- Applying for non-conviction outcomes or minimal penalties
Why choose Law Tram
- Connect with lawyers who understand resisting arrest and obstruction offences
- Confidential platform to outline your situation
- Guidance on evidence or documents that may be relevant
- No obligation to engage any lawyer you speak with
- Lawyers help you understand the legal considerations involved
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Legal information only – not a substitute for advice
This page provides general legal information only. It is not legal advice and should not be relied on as such. Criminal charges can carry serious penalties and strict time limits. You should seek advice from an Australian Legal Practitioner as early as possible, especially before speaking to police or attending court.
Law Tram does not provide emergency legal support or crisis response services and does not assist in finding legal representation for minors.
Take the first step toward resolution
Law Tram offers a secure, efficient and supportive way to connect with lawyers who understand the legal issues involved in resisting arrest and obstructing police matters. Whether your situation involves confusion during an arrest, disputes about whether a direction was lawful, concerns about excessive force or uncertainty about what your actions signified, our platform helps you access tailored legal guidance before you decide how to proceed.
Take the first step with clarity and peace of mind by starting your free online consultation with Law Tram now.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends. If police clearly identify themselves and lawfully arrest you, resisting can still lead to charges. A lawyer can assess whether the arrest was valid.
Filming police is not automatically illegal, but interfering with their duties may result in obstruction charges. Legal advice is important in these situations.
You should still cooperate and seek legal advice afterwards. Using force or running away may worsen the situation and lead to additional charges.
Yes. These offences relate to obstructing police work, not the outcome. However, the lack of harm may help reduce penalties.
Possibly. You may be eligible for a non-conviction order, caution, or spent conviction depending on your history and the court outcome.
Body-worn camera footage, witness details, messages, medical records, charge documents and a timeline of events can help a lawyer outline the general issues that may arise.
Yes. A lawyer can outline the general principles used to consider whether police acted within their powers and how this affects allegations of resistance or obstruction.
Yes. A lawyer can explain how courts typically consider actions like pulling away, verbal disagreement, misunderstanding or fear when assessing the allegation.