Kidnapping

kidnappingLos Angeles Kidnapping Defense Lawyer - Penal Code 207 PC

In California, kidnapping is one of the most serious crimes for which you, or a loved one, may be charged. Los Angeles defense lawyer Michael Kraut has handled kidnapping cases and knows how to defend you from these charges.

California Penal Code Section 207 PC defines kidnapping as the use of force or fear to take a person and move them a substantial distance. This crime is a felony and, if convicted, can result in a prison sentence of up to 8 years. In addition, the court will order you to pay restitution and substantial fines. You may also be required to undergo counseling, and you will be on parole or probation. If the victim is injured, a child, or if the kidnapping was done to facilitate the commission of another crime, then the sentence will be substantially higher. A conviction for kidnapping is a "strike," under the California Three Strikes Law, and will result in significant enhancements to any further sentencing if you are convicted of another crime in the future. If you, or someone you love, has been arrested or charged with a kidnapping in Los Angeles, Riverside County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, or anywhere else in Southern California, you should hire an aggressive criminal defense attorney immediately.

Jury Instruction on Kidnapping (Judicial Council Jury Instructions)

To prove that the defendant is guilty of this crime, the People must prove that:

  1. The defendant took, held or detained another person by using force or by instilling reasonable fear;
  2. Using that force or fear, the defendant moved the other person, or made the other person move, a substantial distance; AND
  3. The other person did not give consent or want to move; AND
  4. The defendant did not actually and reasonably believe that the other person consented to the movement.
    • In order for there to be consent, a person must freely and voluntarily move.
    • For the movement to be a substantial distance, it must be more then a slight or trivial distance. The jury may consider all of the circumstances and factors to determine if the distance was substantial.

      DEFENSES:

      • Good Faith Belief in Consent - If the defendant reasonably and actually believed that the person consented to the movement, then the defendant is NOT guilty of kidnapping.
      • Consent Given - If the other person consented to go with the defendant, then the defendant is Not Guilty of kidnapping. The other person will have consented to the movement if, with understanding, freely and voluntarily agreed to go with the defendant and did in fact move a distance with the defendant.

If you have been charged with a kidnapping crime in Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, or Orange County, it is important that you seek the services of a criminal defense attorney with extensive experience with kidnapping cases. If you have been arrested for kidnapping offense in the Los Angeles or Southern California area, call Michael Kraut. Mr. Kraut understands the serious nature of this offense, how best to defend you, and how to resolve your case without you going to jail. Mr. Kraut has extensive knowledge of the law and the legal system. He has developed excellent relationships with law enforcement and law officials throughout the Los Angeles and Southern California.

For more information about the various ways to a handle kidnapping case, and to schedule your free consultation, contact Michael Kraut at the Kraut Criminal & DUI Lawyers. Mr. Kraut can be reached 24/7 at 888-334-6344 or 323-464-6453.

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★★★★★
Michael Kraut is outstanding! He genuinely cared about my case and instructed my mom and I throughout the entire process. He was very clear on what he needed in order to receive the best results. He kept us updated until the end. I thank him so much for getting my charges rejected. I highly recommend him to anyone with legal needs! Shaquan
★★★★★
I contacted Michael with concern for my personal and business reputation. He was very reassuring and confident the entire time. After about 3 weeks it was determined that no charges were being filed by any agency and I was in the clear of any investigation. One thing that is amazing is just how FAST Michael is at replying to phone calls, texts, and even emails! We are talking under 30 minutes in most cases. That is unheard of for most attorneys! Michael is incredible and not your typical run of the mill attorney. For best results hire him if you feel like you might be under investigation or could face charges. Even if you know you are innocent it is best to take care of the smoke before it becomes a fire. Brad
★★★★★
Michael Kraut is-hands down-the best criminal defense attorney and I can't begin to thank him for all that he did for me and my family. I reached out to him in the middle of the night and less than a couple hours later, he had gotten back to me and scheduled a meeting. He's a no-nonsense attorney who knows how to get the job done! From the second we retained him, I had peace of mind in knowing that we were in the best hands possible. If Michael Kraut couldn't get it done, I knew that it couldn't be done at all. You can't put a price tag on your freedom. He was worth every single penny. Lida
★★★★★
Michael Kraut is an outstanding attorney. He was extremely professional, and straightforward, yet sensitive with my case. I am confident I made the right choice by hiring Michael. I highly recommend him to anyone seeking a truly experienced lawyer. Daniel
★★★★★
Michael Kraut - I cannot thank you enough for all that you did for ​my son. When I came to you I read that you used to be a district attorney but I never knew how much that meant until I watch you in court. I knew it took 3 months but the final day when I heard the judge say that all charges were dismissed it was all worth it! I will always be grateful for all that you did for us. A.N.