In Florida, kidnapping is a crime that is prosecuted very aggressively. Kidnapping, unlike many other crimes, draws a great deal of media attention, and the public emotions surrounding a trial can be intense, especially if minors are involved.
It is very difficult to ensure an unbiased trial and treatment for a defendant in the criminal justice system in cases involving charges of kidnapping. Needless to say, for persons facing kidnapping charges, their very first step should be to obtain the services of a reputable criminal attorney who knows how to mount a solid defense and ensure a fair trial and treatment for their client.
To learn more about how Miami Criminal Defense Lawyer Evan Hoffman and The Hoffman Firm can help you, just pick up the phone and dial (305) 928-1669 or contact us online for a FREE consultation. A criminal defense attorney will explain to their client what it means to be charged with a serious crime like kidnapping.
Kidnapping falls under the category of Violent Crimes and is defined under Florida code 787.01 as:
(1) (a) The term “kidnapping” means forcibly, secretly, or by threat confining, abducting, or imprisoning another person against her or his will and without lawful authority, with intent to:
- Hold for ransom or reward or as a shield or hostage.
- Commit or facilitate the commission of any felony.
- Inflict bodily harm upon or to terrorize the victim or another person.
Though the penalties can be severe, a good defense an attorney may be able to find evidence and or mitigating factors that could result in charges being dropped or the penalties being reduced in cases of conviction. For instance, they may be able to either prove or bring into question what the person said to have been kidnapped willfully accompanied the defendant, and therefore the defendant may not have knowingly committed the act of kidnapping. That is one of many possible tactics that might be possible for an attorney to utilize for a defense.
Kidnapping Is Classified as a First Degree Felony and Is Assigned a Level 9 Offense Severity Ranking Under Florida’s Criminal Punishment Code
For convictions of kidnapping, a judge is required to impose a minimum prison sentence of Forty-Eight (48) months in prison and can also impose any combination of the following penalties:
- Up to life in prison.
- Up to life on probation.
- Up to $10,000 in fines.
If you or someone you know has been accused of kidnapping, it is critically important to obtain the services of an experienced Miami Criminal Defense Lawyer as soon as possible and to consult with them prior to any further actions you may take.
Miami Criminal Defense Lawyer Evan Hoffman practices criminal law defense in Miami and can review your case and begin to help you mount a solid defense. His firm, The Hoffman Firm can walk you through the entire process. Call today for a FREE consultation, by calling (305) 928-1669 or contacting us online.