Walk It Through: The Sidewalk
A summary offense, resisting as a second degree misdemeanor, and what each grade carries.
After a concert, a person who has had too much to drink is sitting on the sidewalk outside a bar when an officer walks over.
Two things a person in this spot might do. Picking one shows what the law says about it.
One night and one sidewalk. Fleeing a signal to stop, a second violation, and the arrest itself are not worked through here.
A practice walkthrough, not a prediction of how any real one will go. Legal information, not legal advice.
Words this turns on
Terms with a legal meaning that is narrower than the everyday one. Each links to the definition and the authority behind it.
- Summary offenseThe lowest grade of offense, punishable by not more than 90 days, with a fine of up to $300 unless a higher fine is set.
- Fleeing or eludingNot stopping for a police officer's visual and audible signal to stop, a misdemeanor of the second degree with an additional fine of $500.
- Resisting arrestMeaning to prevent a lawful arrest or another duty, creating a substantial risk of bodily injury or using means that justify or require substantial force to overcome, a misdemeanor of the second degree.
- Misdemeanor of the third degreeThe lowest misdemeanor grade, punishable by up to 1 year in prison and a fine of up to $2,500.