Houston Kidnapping Attorney

Kidnapping and Unlawful Restraint in Texas

Although kidnapping is always a felony there are degrees of seriousness in kidnapping charges that may cause it to be tried as a federal crime or in state court. Unlawful restraint is the intentional restraining of another person but is not kidnapping.  In certain circumstances, unlawful restraint may be regarded as a misdemeanor. Kidnapping is the abduction of another with penalties of two to ten years in prison.  Abduction with the intention to hold for ransom or facilitate flight such as using the victim as a hostage or shield is Aggravated Kidnapping with a possible 20 years in prison and severe fines.  Penalties may be greater or decreased depending upon other factors such as injury intended or suffered by the victim. For a complete understanding of charges faced by you or a loved one consult a Houston criminal defense attorney. 

Kidnapping Lawyer in Houston

Sometimes an ordinarily law abiding person makes a mistake.  During or after a divorce when emotions run high regarding child custody or other issues a false accusation may be made out of spite or as a result of a misunderstanding.  The removal of a minor child by a non-custodial parent may still be considered kidnapping.  Sometimes victims of domestic violence flee with children to protect them from further violence.  Law enforcement investigators can misinterpret a person's actions.   If you think you may be charged with kidnapping, contact us fast. An experienced kidnapping lawyer with our firm may be able to prevent prosecution or arrange a reduced charge.  

Because of the severity of the charges involved, a thorough investigation into the circumstances of your charges may be necessary.  Each defense lawyer partner in our firm is Board-Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. We explore all possible avenues when building your defense.  Our legal team is aware that there may be sensitive issues involved in your case.  Call Stradley, Chernoff & Alford for a consultation at no fee.

Contact a Houston Kidnapping Attorney at the firm for a strong defense from the charges you are facing.