Kidnapping, the act of unlawfully seizing and detaining a person against their will, carries some of the harshest legal penalties. However, what complicates matters is the frequency with which kidnapping charges can be misconstrued or levied based on misunderstandings, exaggerated claims, or flawed evidence. Such misconceptions can result in innocent people facing unjust allegations and the life-altering consequences that follow. A Decatur kidnapping attorney can help you with your case.
If you are accused of kidnapping in Georgia, trust Wallack Law to fight for your constitutional rights. With our commitment to justice, we can help you build a robust defense and chart a course toward a favorable resolution. Contact us today to discuss your case with our Decatur kidnapping lawyer.
In Georgia, kidnapping is defined as abducting someone without the necessary legal authority and keeping that individual against his or her wishes. To be prosecuted, the accused must have made a slight movement of the victim. However, if the movement is made during the course of another crime and is considered incidental, it doesn’t qualify as kidnapping.
A movement is not incidental and therefore qualifies as kidnapping if it involves any of the following:
In Georgia, the penalties for kidnapping vary based on specific circumstances surrounding the crime. For instance, if the victim is 14 years old or above, the accused may face a prison sentence ranging from 10 to 20 years. However, if the victim is younger than 14, the imprisonment can be for life or a split sentence, which involves at least 25 years in prison followed by lifetime probation.
If the kidnapping involved a ransom demand, the penalties escalate to life imprisonment or even the death penalty. Similarly, causing bodily harm to the victim during the kidnapping also leads to a life sentence.
With such severe penalties, being accused of kidnapping can be a scary and emotionally taxing experience. These accusations can make it difficult to carry on with your day-to-day life, let alone navigate the legal system. In these situations, seeking the help of a criminal defense attorney is crucial.
A Decatur kidnapping attorney not only provides legal guidance but also ensures your rights are safeguarded throughout the process. Your lawyer can critically evaluate evidence, negotiate plea deals, and formulate the best defense strategy tailored to your case.
Facing kidnapping charges in Decatur can be overwhelming and intimidating. Wallack Law can provide the support and guidance you need during this challenging time. Schedule a free legal consultation today at (404) 919-4411 and let us strategize the optimal defense for your kidnapping case.
