Understanding Obstructing Legal Process in Minnesota
In Minnesota, the crime of Obstructing Legal Process refers to specific actions that interfere with the lawful duties of certain professionals, such as law enforcement officers, firefighters, or emergency responders. Minnesota Statute 609.50 outlines the various ways this crime can occur and categorizes the offense into different subdivisions depending on the context and individuals involved.
What Does Minnesota Statute 609.50 Say?
The statute identifies five distinct types of conduct that constitute Obstructing Legal Process. Each is detailed in Subdivision 1 of the statute, with specific provisions for different professionals in later subdivisions.
1. General Obstruction
This section criminalizes actions that obstruct, hinder, or prevent the lawful execution of any legal process. Examples include:
- Standing in the way of an officer making an arrest.
- Being excessively loud or disruptive, preventing an officer from issuing lawful commands.
- Interfering with court processes, such as refusing to accept service of a lawsuit.
2. Obstruction of a Peace Officer
Subdivision 2 applies specifically to obstructing or interfering with a peace officer while they are performing official duties. This provision excludes court-related processes and focuses on duties performed in the field.
3. Interference with Firefighters
This section addresses situations where someone interferes with or obstructs a firefighter in the course of their official duties, such as fighting a fire or conducting a rescue.
4. Interference with Ambulance Services
This provision is specific to ambulance service members. It applies when someone obstructs or interferes with emergency personnel providing or attempting to provide emergency care.
5. Threats to State Employees
The final subdivision criminalizes threats against employees of certain state agencies, such as the Minnesota Department of Revenue and the Department of Public Safety.
How Are These Charges Applied?
Subdivision 1 is often seen as a “catch-all” category, covering a broad range of behaviors. However, prosecutors frequently rely on more specific charges, such as assault or disorderly conduct, rather than pursuing Obstructing Legal Process. Despite this, the statute can be strategically used in negotiations. For instance, defense attorneys may leverage this charge to secure reduced penalties for their clients, such as downgrading a felony to a misdemeanor, which can have fewer long-term consequences.
Penalties for Obstructing Legal Process in Minnesota
The penalties for obstructing legal process vary based on the severity of the offense. Minnesota Statute 609.50 classifies the crime as a misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, or felony depending on the circumstances:
Misdemeanor
- When charged: General obstruction without aggravating factors.
- Penalties: Up to 90 days in jail, a $1,000 fine, or both.
Gross Misdemeanor
- When charged: Obstruction involving force, violence, or credible threats.
- Penalties: Up to 364 days in jail, a $3,000 fine, or both.
Felony
- When charged: If the obstruction knowingly or recklessly creates a risk of death, substantial bodily harm, or significant property damage. The statute also removes the requirement to prove intent if such outcomes occur.
- Penalties: Up to five years in prison, a $10,000 fine, or both.
Why These Charges Matter
While you might not hear about obstructing legal process charges as often as assault or DWI, they’re still significant. In many cases, prosecutors prefer to file specific charges when they can, but this statute offers flexibility—and sometimes, a second chance. For someone facing a felony charge, having it reduced to obstruction could mean a lighter sentence or fewer long-term consequences.
If you’re facing charges under Minnesota Statute 609.50, don’t go it alone. Cases like these require a nuanced understanding of the law and the ability to negotiate effectively. At Shek Law, we’re here to guide you through your options and fight for the best possible outcome. Contact us today to learn how we can help protect your rights and your future.