A resisting or obstruction charge can show up in two ways: as the only charge you're facing, or stacked on top of something else as additional leverage. Either way, the facts of the interaction matter - and what the state says happened may not match what actually did. Butash Law Group defends clients against resisting arrest and obstruction charges in.
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Florida statute §843.02 makes it a crime to “resist, obstruct, or oppose” a law enforcement officer in the performance of their duties. But the law draws a sharp line between two very different situations - and that distinction determines whether you’re looking at a misdemeanor or a felony.
The line between these two charges is not always as clear as the state makes it sound. Prosecutors sometimes charge resisting with violence based on a disputed account of the interaction. The specific facts - who moved first, what was said, whether the officer’s commands were lawful - are where a defense is built.
One of the most common situations we see: a client is charged with something else - a DUI, a drug offense, a domestic violence allegation - and a resisting charge gets added to the mix. It happens frequently, and it’s worth understanding why.
Adding a resisting charge increases the total exposure a defendant faces. More charges create more pressure to accept a plea on the primary offense. Addressing both charges together, as part of a single coordinated defense strategy, often produces better outcomes than treating them as separate problems. When we take a criminal defense case that includes a resisting charge, we evaluate the full picture from the start - not just the charge the state considers most serious.
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★★★★★ Contact Butash Law Group at (813) 341-2232 to schedule a complimentary consultation where your dispute is reviewed and your legal options are explained. This no-obligation meeting helps establish whether your matter has merit and what strategy may best protect your interests.
Every resisting arrest defense matter is individually assessed based on its unique facts, applicable Florida law, and the client's goals. The firm identifies fee-recovery opportunities, evaluates litigation risk, and recommends the most advantageous pathmediation, negotiated settlement, or trial.
Where appropriate, Butash Law Group pursues pre-suit negotiation or formal mediation to resolve disputes efficiently and cost-effectively before court proceedings begin. A timely mediated resolution can preserve business relationships and significantly reduce overall litigation expense.
If litigation proceeds, the firm actively manages all phases of discoveryincluding interrogatories, document requests, depositions, and subpoenasto build the strongest possible evidentiary record. Disputes over privilege, production scope, or non-party subpoenas are handled promptly to keep the case moving forward.
When settlement terms are inadequate or trial is in the client's best interest, Butash Law Group is fully prepared to argue the case before a judge or jury in Florida state or federal court. The firm pursues every available remedy to achieve the most favorable outcome possible for each client.
Butash Law Group serves resisting arrest defense clients throughout Pasco, Hillsborough, Hernando and Pinellas counties, including Lutz, Wesley Chapel, Land O’ Lakes, Dade City and Tampa. Whether your dispute arises locally or involves parties across the region, the firm provides experienced, responsive representation close to home.
Butash Law Group represents Tampa Bay clients across a full range of legal matters.
Mike grew up in the Tampa Bay area and graduated from Stetson University College of Law in 1997. He was immediately hired as an Assistant State Attorney for the 6th Judicial Circuit in Pinellas and Pasco Counties, where he prosecuted everything from misdemeanors to the most serious felonies. Today he uses that insider experience to defend clients across Tampa Bay. With more than three decades of practice, lead counsel in over 40 jury trials, and thousands of cases handled, Mike brings the kind of courtroom judgment that only comes from years on both sides of the aisle.
40+ jury trials as lead counsel | 30+ years practicing | Thousands of cases
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