- Free Consultation: (813) 222-2220 Tap Here to Call Us
COPS2000 Obstructing or Opposing an Officer with Violence Defense | Tampa Lawyer
Charged with COPS2000: Obstructing or Opposing an Officer with Violence in Florida? Contact Us Today for Expert Legal Defense!
If you’ve been charged with COPS2000: Obstructing or Opposing an Officer with Violence, it’s important to consult a skilled criminal defense attorney immediately. COPS2000 is a felony offense under Florida Statute § 843.01 and can have severe legal consequences, including significant prison time. Our team at Law Office of W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr. is here to help you navigate your charges and fight for the best possible outcome.
What is COPS2000: Obstructing or Opposing an Officer with Violence?
COPS2000, under Florida Statute § 843.01, involves using force or violence to resist, oppose, or obstruct a law enforcement officer while they are performing their official duties. This charge is categorized as a third-degree felony.
Penalties for COPS2000: Obstructing or Opposing an Officer with Violence
A conviction for COPS2000 can result in severe penalties, including:
- Up to 5 years in prison
- Probation for up to 5 years
- Fines up to $5,000
- A permanent criminal record, which can severely affect your future
If you have been charged with this offense, contact a Tampa criminal defense lawyer at Law Office of W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr. immediately to start building your defense.
Defenses Against COPS2000 Charges
There are several defenses that could potentially reduce or dismiss COPS2000 charges, including:
- Excessive Force: If the officer used excessive force, your actions might have been a reasonable response to protect yourself.
- Mistaken Identity: If you were wrongly identified as the person obstructing or resisting, this could be a defense.
- Lack of Intent: If you did not have the intent to obstruct or oppose the officer, this could be a key defense in court.
Each case is unique, and we’ll work with you to identify the most effective defense strategy. Law Office of W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr. offers free consultations to discuss the best approach for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Obstructing an officer typically refers to hindering or delaying an officer from carrying out their duties without the use of force. This can include actions like failing to comply with commands or attempting to evade arrest. However, opposing an officer with violence involves the use of force or physical violence against an officer while they are performing their official duties. This charge is taken much more seriously, as it directly puts the officer at risk and is classified as a felony under Florida law.
Yes, you can still be charged with obstructing or opposing an officer with violence even if the officer wasn’t physically injured. The law focuses on the use of force, not necessarily whether the officer sustained an injury. Simply engaging in violent behavior, such as pushing, striking, or threatening an officer, can result in felony charges, regardless of whether the officer was physically harmed. It is the act of resisting or obstructing through violence that leads to a charge under Florida Statute § 843.01.
If you’ve been charged with COPS2000, it is crucial to take immediate action and consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney. A skilled lawyer will examine the circumstances surrounding your case, review any evidence, and determine the best strategy for defense. In many cases, charges can be reduced or dismissed, especially if there are issues with how the arrest was handled or if there is a lack of evidence to support the use of violence. Contacting a lawyer as soon as possible is essential to protect your rights and your future.
There are several potential defenses against COPS2000 charges. One possible defense is challenging the intent behind your actions—arguing that you did not intend to obstruct or oppose the officer violently. Another defense could be if you were acting in self-defense, particularly if you believed the officer was using excessive force. Additionally, if the officer was acting outside the scope of their official duties or if you were wrongfully identified as the person obstructing or resisting, these could also serve as valid defenses in court. An experienced defense attorney will evaluate your case thoroughly to determine the best defense strategy.
Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been charged with COPS2000: Obstructing or Opposing an Officer with Violence, it’s crucial to have experienced legal representation by your side. At Law Office of W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr., we understand the complexity of these charges and will fight to protect your rights and future.
Call us today at (813) 222-2220 or schedule a free consultation here to discuss your case and begin building your defense.
