The potential penalties for a kidnapping offense are severe and can include life imprisonment. A kidnapping conviction also qualifies as a serious and violent felony under California’s three-strikes law. When the stakes are so high, attaining advice from an experienced criminal defense attorney as quickly as possible following accusations of kidnapping may be essential to your defense.
Although viable defenses to your kidnapping charge may exist, you could be left unaware of these defenses without legal counsel to guide you through using them. Working with an Oakland kidnapping lawyer from the outset of your case could allow you to develop the most effective defense strategy possible.
California Penal Code §207 defines various scenarios that constitute kidnapping. These situations all include at least three elements:
One specific scenario that qualifies as kidnapping is hiring, persuading, or seducing a child under the age of 14 to leave an area to engage in lewd sexual acts. Likewise, abducting persons for the purpose of involuntary servitude constitutes kidnapping.
Even fraudulently forcing or persuading someone to enter the state of California can constitute a kidnapping charge. An Oakland kidnapping attorney may be able to evaluate the evidence that would be necessary to prove a kidnapping charge and develop a strong defense strategy in response to that evidence.
Under Ca. Pen. Code §208, kidnapping without any aggravating factors is punishable by imprisonment for three, five, or eight years. If the abduction involves a child who is under the age of 14, however, the potential term of imprisonment increases to five, eight, or 11 years. If the court orders the accused to serve a term of probation, then the sentence usually includes a 12-month county jail sentence, except in extraordinary circumstances that the court finds merit a lesser punishment.
According to Ca. Pen. Code §209, certain factors that occur during a kidnapping merit a more severe potential punishment. Aggravating factors can include seeking reward, ransom, or extortion, or kidnapping persons to commit certain felonies like rape or carjacking. If kidnapping results in death or serious bodily harm to others, that may also constitute an aggravating factor.
An aggravated kidnapping offense could result in a life sentence without the possibility of parole. As is the case with non-aggravated kidnapping offenses, even sentences of probation must typically include a mandatory 12-month jail sentence.
Whether simple or aggravated, a kidnapping conviction will count as a serious and violent felony in the context of California’s three-strikes law. A second felony charge following a kidnapping conviction could result in double the sentence imposed by law for that offense, and a third felony conviction could result in a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 25 years. A kidnapping lawyer in Oakland could work on a defendant’s behalf to pursue a proactive outcome in this kind of situation.
If you find that you are the target a kidnapping investigation, you may wish to contact an Oakland kidnapping lawyer right away. Building a strong defense to kidnapping or other serious criminal charges from the outset of your case could be crucial to protecting your rights and clearing your name. Contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible to start exploring your options.
The Nieves Law Firm is dedicated to providing aggressive criminal defense representation to working professionals who have found themselves in trouble with the law. We show up to win, and we’re not afraid to fight aggressively to accomplish our client’s goals.
We understand that being accused of a crime can be a scary and confusing experience. That’s why we take the stress off our clients by handling the full scope of their legal situation from the initial consultation to the final outcome. Our bilingual attorneys and staff are here to ensure that our clients feel heard and understood every step of the way.
As one of the largest criminal defense teams in Oakland and the Greater Bay Area, we have the resources and experience to handle even the most complex cases. Our experienced team examines various aspects of your case and, perhaps most importantly, we genuinely care about our clients and their future. We take the time to learn about their goals and priorities so that we can achieve an outcome that allows them to move past their mistakes and focus on the future they want. When you work with us, you become part of our team.
Our skilled criminal defense attorneys have experience handling a wide range of criminal cases. With a deep understanding of the legal system and a track record of successful cases, our lawyers are committed to achieving the best possible outcome in your case.
When facing a criminal charge, having dedicated and experienced attorneys on your side is critical. At The Nieves Law Firm, we understand the gravity of your situation, and our criminal defense attorneys provide unwavering support and legal guidance.
From the moment you reach out to us, we prioritize your well-being and legal interests. Our criminal lawyers are with you every step of the way, from arrest to hearings and beyond, to ensure that your rights are protected. Whether you’re facing charges related to DUI, drug offenses, assault, sex crimes or any other allegation, we have the knowledge and courtroom experience to fight vigorously on your behalf.
We believe in the power of collaboration and will actively involve you in the decision-making process, ensuring you are well-informed and empowered to make the best choices for your defense. Our goal is not only to navigate the legal complexities but also to provide you with the peace of mind and reassurance you deserve during this challenging time.
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Case Dismissed after Completion of Drug Court
All Charges Dismissed and Property Ordered to be Returned to Client
Deferred Entry of Judgment
Case Dismissed
Case Dismissed without Trial
Motion to Vacate Granted
Restraining Order Denied and Sealed
Both Cases Dismissed Prior to Trial
No Charges Filed
No Criminal Charges Filed & Detention
No Jail Time & No Sex Offender Registration
Pled to 1 Petty Misdemeanor and Not Required to Register as Sex Offender
