Kidnapping Charges in San Diego

San Diego Criminal Defense Attorney

Kidnapping is a very serious criminal offense. If convicted, a defendant may face up to life in prison in some situations, and kidnapping charges may be prosecuted in state or federal court if the victim is taken over state lines or national borders. If you have found yourself in a situation where you are facing kidnapping charges or allegations, the most important thing you can do is consult with an attorney to determine how to best approach your defense. An attorney can talk to you about your legal options and can make an assessment as to the best strategy to represent your Constitutional rights.

There are three primary parts to a kidnapping charge, all of which the prosecuting attorney must prove in order to secure a conviction for this crime in San Diego, California:

• The defendant took or detained another person by means of force, threats or fear;
• The kidnapper moved the victim or forced the victim to move a substantial distance; and
• The victim did not consent to the kidnapper's actions.

Your San Diego kidnapping defense lawyer will work to discredit evidence and witness testimony the prosecution has brought against you, weakening their ability to prove all three of these points. The primary goal will be to help you avoid a conviction altogether, but your attorney may also work to negotiate with the prosecution for a reduced sentence or other arrangement in special situations.

Arrested for Kidnapping, Parental Kidnapping or False Imprisonment?

Do not wait to involve a criminal defense attorney who can make a difference in the outcome of your case. Whether you have been accused of kidnapping or any related offense, such as false imprisonment or parental kidnapping, or if you are currently under investigation and have not yet been charged, there is often much that a lawyer can do to begin protecting your rights.

Contact a San Diego kidnapping attorney at our law firm today!