The Consequences of Avoiding the Police in California

August 9, 2025 | Nafiz M. Ahmed

Trying to avoid law enforcement in California may seem like a way to protect yourself in the moment, but it can quickly result in severe legal consequences. Regardless of whether you’re walking away from an officer or fleeing in a vehicle, state law treats evasion seriously.

Here’s what you need to know about the risks and penalties associated with avoiding the police in California.

What Does It Mean to “Avoid” the Police?

In California, there are many ways someone might try to avoid law enforcement, but not all of them are illegal. Simply walking away from an officer isn’t necessarily a crime, that is, unless you’ve been lawfully detained or placed under arrest. The legal consequences kick in when someone willfully evades, resists, or interferes with police duties in a way that violates state law.

There are a few key situations where avoiding the police becomes a criminal offense:

Evading in a vehicle
Fleeing on foot after a lawful stop
Delaying or obstructing an officer’s investigation
Refusing to comply with orders during a traffic stop or arrest

Each of these actions can lead to charges depending on the facts and circumstances of the situation.

Vehicle Evasion Is a Crime Under California Law

One of the most serious forms of evasion is trying to escape in a car. Under California Vehicle Code Section 2800.1, it’s a misdemeanor to willfully flee or attempt to elude a pursuing police vehicle when you know the vehicle is marked and the officer is in uniform.

If aggravating factors are present (such as driving recklessly or causing injury), the charge can become a felony. A felony evasion charge may lead to prison time and long-term consequences for your driving record and criminal history.

Running From an Officer on Foot Can Still Lead to Charges

Running from law enforcement or moving away on foot can still land you in legal trouble. Penal Code Section 148 makes it a misdemeanor to resist, obstruct, or delay an officer performing their duties.

This can apply to situations where someone, for instance, pulls away during a lawful detention or interferes with an investigation. Convictions under this statute can result in jail time and fines, and it doesn’t matter if anyone was injured during the altercation as well.

Long-Term Consequences of Avoiding the Police

The penalties for evading or resisting the police go beyond jail time.

A conviction on your record can impact many parts of your life, including:

Employment opportunities
Professional licensing
Immigration status
Ability to drive legally
Probation or parole eligibility

In some cases, a misdemeanor charge could be increased to a felony if there are prior offenses or if the evasion leads to someone being hurt or killed. Judges take these cases seriously because they often involve putting the public or officers at risk.

What to Do if You’re Facing Charges for Evasion or Resistance

If you’re being investigated or charged with avoiding the police, it’s critical to seek legal help right away. A skilled criminal defense lawyer in California can review the facts of your case and determine whether your actions were unlawful or if the officer overstepped their authority.

In some cases, your attorney may be able to show that:

You didn’t realize you were being stopped by the police
The officer used excessive force or lacked legal grounds
Your behavior didn’t rise to the level of a criminal offense

Having legal representation early in the process can help you avoid harsh penalties or negotiate for reduced charges.

Contact the Experienced Redwood City Criminal Defense Lawyers at Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys for Help Today

Avoiding the police in California is more than just a bad idea, as it can result in serious legal consequences that affect your future. If you’ve been accused of fleeing in a car or resisting arrest, understanding your rights and responsibilities is key. Contact an experienced Redwood City criminal defense attorney at Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys today to get started with a consultation or call us at (650) 299-0500 to get started.

Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys – San Jose Office
1625 The Alameda, Suite 405, San Jose, CA 95126
(408) 217-8818

Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys – Redwood City Office
600 Allerton St Suite 201G, Redwood City, CA 94063
(650) 299-0500