Criminal Defense Attorney in Broward County: What You Need to Know about Kidnapping Charges

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20th Aug 2018

An experienced criminal defense attorney in Broward County may represent individuals who are facing serious kidnapping charges.  If you are facing charges of this nature, it is important that you understand the nature of the charges against you.  If you have been charged with kidnapping, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney in Broward County.

Legal Definition of Kidnapping

Under Florida law, kidnapping involves the secret, forcible or threatened confinement, abduction or imprisonment of another person without his or her will, consent or legal authority.  It is coupled with the intent to hold the victim for ransom, reward as a shield or as a hostage, to injured or terrorize the victim or another, to commit a felony or to interfere with the function of government.

Punishments for Kidnapping

Kidnapping is charged with a first degree felony.  It carries a maximum penalty of up to 30 years or life in prison and a fine up to $10,000.

Defenses to Kidnapping

There must be evidence of various elements of kidnapping for a prosecutor to secure a conviction, including showing that the defendant had the requisite intent defined under state law.  If the prosecution cannot establish that the defendant committed each element of the offense by proof beyond a reasonable doubt.

For example, a criminal defense lawyer may argue that the defendant did not restrain or confine the victim.  Likewise, he or she could argue that the defendant did not have the intention as defined under state law.  The defendant might not have intended on harming the victim.

An experienced criminal defense attorney can discuss the various offenses that may be available, based on the particular circumstances involved in your case.