The primary obstruction-of-justice statutes appear in §§ 1501 through 1520 of Title 18. The most common obstruction crimes involve attempts to alter or destroy documents; offer or encourage false testimony; or influence witnesses, jurors, judges, or lawyers.

I.  18 U.S.C. § 1503: Influencing or Injuring Officer or Juror Generally

The most commonly used and broadest obstruction-of-justice statute is § 1503. This statute prohibits:

·   endeavoring to influence a juror or...