Minnesota Statute

Obstructing Legal Process (609.50)

View statute (609.50)

Key questions we answer

What does obstructing legal process mean?

It refers to intentionally obstructing, hindering, or preventing the execution of legal process or the duties of law enforcement officers, firefighters, or other officials. In practice, this can include resisting arrest, interfering with police or emergency responders, or refusing to obey lawful orders.

What are the penalties for obstructing legal process?

Simple obstruction (without force) is a misdemeanor, with penalties up to 90 days jail and $1,000 fine. If the act involves force, violence, or a threat, it becomes a gross misdemeanor (up to 1 year and $3,000 fine). If it creates a substantial risk of death or serious injury (for example, trying to disarm an officer or causing serious danger), it can be charged as a felony, punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

What the State must prove

Intentional acts that hinder or obstruct officials performing duties; enhancements apply when force, violence, or significant risk is alleged.

Body-cam, crowd context, and clarity of orders are often central.

Penalties at a glance

Ranges from misdemeanor to felony based on force used and risk created; release conditions may include no-contact with locations or officials involved.

Your first 72 hours

  • Request body-cam and dispatch audio immediately.
  • Identify neutral witnesses; preserve smartphone video.
  • Do not post about the incident online; follow all release terms.

Defenses we evaluate

  • Ambiguous or unlawful orders; lack of intent to obstruct.
  • Excessive force or escalation by others, not the defendant.
  • Identification and reliability problems in chaotic scenes.

How TCDN helps

Counsel frames the timeline using official recordings, pushing for reductions or dismissals where intent or clarity of orders is doubtful.

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Cities we serve for this charge