18 U.S.C. § 1503 – Influencing or Injuring Officer or Juror Generally
This statute criminalizes efforts to corruptly influence, intimidate, or obstruct jurors, court officers, or the administration of justice.
What this statute does.
Section 1503 is a core federal obstruction of justice statute. It applies to conduct that interferes with the functioning of federal courts, jurors, magistrate judges, and court officers, as well as conduct that obstructs the due administration of justice more broadly.
Core prohibited conduct.
The statute covers conduct carried out:
- Corruptly
- By threats or force
- By threatening letters or communications
When that conduct is intended to:
- Influence, intimidate, or impede a grand or petit juror
- Influence, intimidate, or impede a federal court officer or magistrate judge
- Injure a juror or court officer because of official duties or jury service
- Influence, obstruct, or impede the due administration of justice
The statute reaches both completed acts and endeavors—meaning the attempt alone may be sufficient.
Connection to criminal trials.
If the offense occurs in connection with a criminal trial and involves threats of physical force or physical force, the maximum penalty may increase to match the maximum sentence for the underlying charged offense.
Penalties.
Penalties depend on the nature of the conduct:
- Killing: punished under §§ 1111 or 1112
- Attempted killing, or obstruction involving a petit juror in a Class A or B felony case: up to 20 years
- All other cases: up to 10 years
Fines under Title 18 may also apply.
Why this statute matters.
Section 1503 is frequently charged in cases involving witness pressure, juror intimidation, interference with court proceedings, or broader obstruction theories tied to ongoing federal cases.
If you are under investigation or charged with federal obstruction of justice, call (314) 900-HELP or
contact our federal criminal defense attorney.
