Federal criminal law specifically prohibits picketing or parading in or near a U.S. courthouse, or a judge’s or court officer’s residence, with the intent of interfering with the administration of justice or influencing a court participant. A violation if this law, generally referred to as “picketing or parading,” is punishable by up to one year in federal prison and possible fines. Please contact a skilled criminal defense attorney now if you’ve been charged with ay type of federal crime.

What is the Federal Law on Picketing or Parading?

18 USC 1507 is the federal statute that sets forth the law on picketing or parading. Per this law, you commit a federal offense if you picket and parade, with the intent to obstruct justice or influence a judge, juror, witness, or court officer, in or near either:

  • A building that houses a U.S. court, or
  • A building or residence occupied or used by such a judge, juror, witness, or court officer.

Please note that for the purposes of this crime, “to obstruct justice” is a broad umbrella term that refers to any action that intentionally interferes with, influences, or impedes the orderly administration of law and justice.

What are the Penalties?

If you are convicted of picketing or parading, you could face the following penalties:

  • Custody in federal prison for up to one year, and/or
  • Fines.

Can a Defendant Raise a Legal Defense?

Yes. People charged with picketing or parading can contest the charge with a legal defense. A common defense is to show that, while you may have picketed or paraded, you did not do so with an intent to obstruct justice or influence a court participant.

Note that your criminal defense attorney can also argue that your actions were entirely peaceful, without violence or the incitement of imminent lawless action, which are generally protected by the First Amendment. If the conduct did not involve violence, threats, or active obstruction, it may be protected.

Contact Black & Askerov for Help

While a defendant can raise a legal defense to challenge a picketing or parading charge, it will take a skilled criminal defense attorney to raise the best defense. The experienced criminal defense attorneys at Black & Askerov have over 30 years of combined experience defending clients on various federal charges. Our Seattle criminal defense lawyers also have the skill and commitment that makes all the difference in these cases. Contact us now to get the legal help you deserve!

* Main image at top by Freepik.