Hartford Kidnapping Defense Attorneys
Defense against kidnapping and abduction charges in Manchester & Hartford
Charges and allegations of kidnapping, aggravated kidnapping and related offenses are felony crimes that carry potential consequences of long prison sentences and large financial penalties. If you’ve been charged with a kidnapping offense, it’s crucial you secure experienced legal representation. Often, kidnapping charges may end up being tried in federal court, putting your entire future at risk.
The Hartford criminal defense lawyers at Barry, Taylor & Levesque know how to defend clients against kidnapping and abduction charges. We understand the severity of these charges and the potential consequences, and we work tenaciously and aggressively to build the strong defense you need. Whether you have been charged with kidnapping or have recently learned you are under investigation, you need serious representation and you need it now. Contact us today to begin building your case.
What is the definition of kidnapping?
To better understand the legal system and what you may be dealing with, following is a simple primer on state kidnapping and abduction laws. Our Hartford attorneys can explain this in more detail as it applies to your particular case and defense.
Connecticut law breaks down kidnapping charges into two categories.
Kidnapping in the First Degree
Under Connecticut G.S. 53a-92, first-degree kidnapping is a Class A felony. An individual is charged with kidnapping in the first degree when they abduct another person for:
- Ransom
- Inflicting physical injury
- Sexual assault or rape
- Accomplishing the commission of a felony
- Terrorizing them or a third party
- Interfering with a government function
First-degree kidnapping is an intentional crime, meaning it was deliberate. There may be three separate intentional acts involved: first, the intent to abduct; second, the intent to restrain; third, the intent to violate or sexually abuse the victim. A Class A felony kidnapping (other than one that results in a murder or the sexual assault of a minor) can result in jail time of between 10 to 25 years, depending on the circumstances.
Kidnapping in the Second Degree
Connecticut G.S. 53a-94 states an individual may be charged with second-degree kidnapping when they abduct another person. This is a Class B felony, and can result in jail time of between one to 20 years, depending on the circumstances.
Custodial interference and kidnapping in Hartford
Another area of kidnapping and abduction defense in which we work is custodial interference, or parental abduction. These charges can be Class D felonies or Class A misdemeanors, depending on the situation. An individual may be charged with custodial interference if:
- They are a relative of a child under 16, took the child from their legal custodian and intend to hold the child permanently
- They refuse to return a child under 16 to their legal custodian after a request to return them
- They take the child from their legal custodian and expose them to danger or risk of danger
- They take the child from their legal custodian and remove the child from the state
Why you need a Hartford kidnapping defense attorney
Our lawyers are dedicated and committed to defending our clients. We understand the serious nature of criminal kidnapping charges and are prepared to build a strong defense. It is the job of the prosecution to show burden of proof, and we pledge to hold them to that. State and federal kidnapping and trafficking laws are both technical and harsh, and you need attorneys with the experience and tenacity to protect your rights in court.
After investigating every aspect of your case, we’ll work with you to decide what’s in your best interests. We will prepare to negotiate, plea bargain, minimize the charges, or go to trial – whatever the best chances for a favorable outcome for your case. Our strong track record of accomplishments speaks for itself.
Experienced Hartford kidnapping defense lawyers
Fighting criminal charges may be the battle of your life. Ensure you go in prepared and informed of your options. If you’re facing kidnapping allegations or charges, the criminal defense attorneys at Barry, Taylor & Levesque, LLC are ready to help. We have decades of experience providing legal guidance and protecting the rights of people in Hartford County. Call us today. We’re located right off I-84 or I-384 in Manchester. To schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys in Hartford or Manchester, please call 860-649-4400 or fill out our contact form.