Some of the most high profile crimes in history have been kidnapping charges. When people think of this crime, they often imagine a ransom note and a high profile baby such as the Lindbergh baby kidnapping. In reality, most cases of kidnapping aren’t like that at all. If you take someone from one place to another through force, intimidation or deception against the other person’s will or you confine another person in a controlled place, you may be facing kidnapping or abduction charges. These are very serious charges and require the experience of a veteran Virginia kidnapping attorney.
Many kidnapping charges arise from a parent taking the child from a custodial parent. Because child custody cases and family law disputes can be very stressful, it gets to point where one parent may just snap and take the child. While we can all sympathize with the stress these custody battles can bring, the law does not look kindly at people who simply take a child. At the Law Office of Patrick N. Anderson and Associates, we will listen without judging and come up with the best defense possible for your particular charges. We will work tirelessly on your behalf to preserve your freedom.
If you are charged with kidnapping and it is not your child, Virginia will treat you more harshly. Those people can be charged with a Class 4 felony while a parent may only be charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor along with contempt of court charges. This is a significant difference in penalties and can result in a significant loss of freedom if you are convicted. Therefore it is important to hire a kidnapping lawyer right away.
Abduction is similar to kidnapping but it involves an adult. It can mean taking someone to one place against their will or confining them in such a way that they cannot leave. This is a serious crime and is classified as a Class 4 felony, meaning you could face significant jail time if convicted. A Virginia abduction attorney will be able to help with these charges and get you the best outcome possible for your particular case.
If you are facing kidnapping or abduction charges, contact the Law Offices of Patrick N. Anderson and Associates. With 34 years of experience, we have the expertise to defend you. We are one of Virginia’s leading and largest criminal defense firms, but we also make sure each client is treated as family and gets the representation they deserve. We take great pride in providing our clients with top quality representation. We work to create trust and build communication, letting you know exactly how your case is proceeding and what to expect going forward.