Crimes Against Justice
Crimes against justice in Iowa encompass a wide range of offenses that directly challenge the integrity, functioning, and authority of the judicial and law enforcement systems. These crimes are aimed at obstructing the administration of justice, either through acts that interfere with the legal process or through behaviors that undermine law enforcement efforts.
Des Moines Crimes Against Justice Attorney
If you’ve been charged with obstructing justice, failing to appear or any other judicial crime, then you may face misdemeanor charges up to a felony depending on the circumstances. Our dedicated team understands the complexities of the legal system in Iowa and is committed to securing your case. With a track record of success, personalized attention, and a deep understanding of the legal landscape, choosing McCarthy & Hamrock, P.C. means choosing comprehensive and effective representation.
With our experience, skills, and resources our attorneys can effectively fight for you. Call (515) 279-9700 now to set up your first consultation for free.
- What are Crimes Against Justice?
- Crimes Against Justice Laws in Iowa
- Hire a Criminal Justice Defense Attoreny in Des Moines, Iowa
An Overview of Crimes Against Justice
Simply, crimes against justice are serious offenses that lawmakers believe pose a direct threat to the legal and law enforcement framework of any jurisdiction, including Iowa. These offenses are detrimental because they impede the ability of the judicial system to operate fairly and efficiently. In Iowa, as in other states, the legal system treats these offenses with a high degree of seriousness due to their potential to erode public trust in legal institutions, and to deter future offenses.
Crimes Against Justice Laws
Crimes against justice can be broadly categorized into a few key legal categories. Each of these categories include multiple laws designed to protect the judicial and law enforcement processes.
Obstruction of Justice – Chapter 719
Obstruction of justice includes acts that knowingly interfere with the investigation, prosecution, or execution of justice. This can involve resisting arrest, destroying or concealing evidence, intimidating witnesses, or any other act intended to disrupt legal proceedings.
Laws in Obstruction of Justice include:
- 719.1 Interference with official acts.
- 719.1A Providing false identification information.
- 719.2 Refusing to assist officer.
- 719.3 Preventing apprehension, obstructing prosecution, or obstructing defense.
- 719.4 Escape or absence from custody.
- 719.5 Permitting prisoner to escape.
- 719.6 Assisting prisoner to escape.
- 719.7 Possessing contraband.
- 719.7A Electronic contraband — criminal penalties.
- 719.8 Furnishing a controlled substance or intoxicating beverage to inmates at a detention facility.
Perjury and False Statements
Perjury involves making false statements under oath during legal proceedings (while in court); however, false statements made to law enforcement officers during an investigation also fall under this category.
- 720.1 Compounding a felony.
- 720.2 Perjury, contradictory statements, and retraction.
- 720.3 Suborning perjury.
- 720.4 Tampering with witnesses or jurors.
- 720.5 False representation of records or process.
- 720.6 Malicious prosecution.
- 720.7 Interference with judicial acts — penalty.
Bribery and Corruption
Bribery refers to offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value as a means of influencing the actions of an official in the discharge of their public or legal duties. Corruption extends to acts beyond bribery that undermine the integrity of public officials and the legal system.
- 722.1 Bribery
- 722.2 Accepting bribe
- 722.3 Bribery in sports
- 722.10 Commercial bribery
- 722.11 Student athlete prohibitions
Escape and Aiding Escape
This category involves escaping from custody or facilitating the escape of someone legally held. Such acts directly challenge the authority of the law enforcement and corrections system.
- 703.1 Aiding and abetting
- 703.2 Joint criminal conduct
- 703.3 Accessory after the fact
- 703.4 Responsibility of employers
- 703.5 Liability of corporations, partnerships, and voluntary associations
Failure to Appear
Failing to appear in court can lead to a judge sending out an arrest warrant or levying additional fines against you. In addition, failing to appear may result in summary judgement, meaning that you will lose your ability to plead your case.
When an individual fails to appear for a judicial proceeding to which they have been summoned, without a valid excuse, they commit a crime against justice. This disrupts the orderly process of justice and wastes judicial resources.
Potential Penalties
The penalties for crimes against justice in Iowa vary widely depending on the specific offense and its severity. Penalties can range from fines and probation to significant prison terms. The severity of the penalty often reflects the extent to which the offense is perceived to have undermined the justice system.
Several factors influence the penalties for crimes against justice, including the offender’s criminal history, the specific nature of the offense, and its impact on the judicial process. Aggravating circumstances, such as the use of violence or the involvement of vulnerable victims, can lead to harsher penalties.
Hire a Des Moines Crimes Against Justice Attorney
Call us now at (515) 279-9700 to set up your first consultation for free. We accept clients throughout the greater Polk County and Dallas County area including Ankeny, Altoona, Johnston, Polk City, Pleasant Hill, Adel, Waukee, Perry and De Soto.