Fighting a Kidnapping Accusation in St. Louis County with a Dedicated Defense Attorney
The world has just been turned upside down. A criminal charge, especially one as severe and terrifying as kidnapping, shatters everything you thought you knew about your life. The accusation alone can feel like a life sentence, isolating you from friends, family, and the sense of security you once held in communities like Duluth, Two Harbors, or Proctor. The shock is immediate and overwhelming: the whispers, the stares, the sudden shift in how people perceive you in a tight-knit Northern Minnesota town. This isn’t just a legal battle; it’s a fight for your very identity, your reputation, and your future. The state, with all its power and resources, has pointed its finger, and now it feels as though every door is closing, every path forward is blocked.
This is the moment of crisis, a deeply personal struggle that can consume every waking thought. The fear of what comes next – the potential loss of your job, the irreparable damage to your standing in the community, the profound impact on your family – is very real. In a place like Bemidji or Cloquet, where connections run deep and reputations are hard-earned, an accusation of kidnapping can devastate not just your present, but your entire future. You are not just facing legal statutes; you are facing the crushing weight of public perception and the relentless pursuit of the state. But an accusation is not a conviction. It is the beginning of a fight, not the end of a life. And in this fight, you need a relentless advocate who understands the stakes and is prepared to stand with you against the formidable power of the state.
The Stakes: What a Conviction Truly Costs
Your Permanent Criminal Record
A conviction for kidnapping leaves an indelible mark on your life, far beyond the immediate penalties. This isn’t just a minor infraction; it’s a felony that will follow you for the rest of your days. Every background check, every job application, every housing inquiry will reveal this stain. Imagine trying to secure employment in Duluth or Two Harbors when a potential employer sees “kidnapping” on your record. It creates an immediate and often insurmountable barrier, closing doors before you even have a chance to explain. This record becomes a narrative, a story about you that you did not write, and one that is incredibly difficult to overcome. It will define how institutions and, unfortunately, many individuals, perceive you, regardless of your rehabilitation or subsequent good deeds.
Loss of Second Amendment Rights
One of the less immediately obvious, but deeply impactful, consequences of a felony kidnapping conviction in Minnesota is the permanent loss of your Second Amendment rights. This means you will no longer be able to legally own or possess firearms. For many in Northern Minnesota, where hunting, sport shooting, or even self-defense are integral parts of life, this is a significant and often devastating blow. It’s a right that, once revoked, is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to regain. This loss extends beyond recreational activities; it impacts your sense of security and your ability to protect yourself and your family, fundamentally altering your relationship with a constitutionally guaranteed freedom.
Barriers to Employment and Housing
Beyond the direct impact on your reputation, a kidnapping conviction erects severe and often insurmountable barriers to obtaining stable employment and housing. Many companies, especially those with any level of responsibility or public interaction, will simply not consider an applicant with a felony record, particularly one involving such a serious crime. This can force individuals into precarious economic situations, limiting their options and creating a cycle of instability. Similarly, landlords are often hesitant to rent to individuals with felony convictions, making it incredibly difficult to find safe and secure housing in communities like Proctor, Cloquet, or Bemidji. The economic and social ramifications can ripple through every aspect of your life, impacting your ability to rebuild and contribute.
Impact on Professional Licenses and Reputation
For those holding professional licenses – whether as a teacher, nurse, real estate agent, or in countless other regulated fields – a kidnapping conviction can mean the immediate and permanent revocation of that license. Your career, built over years of education and hard work, could vanish overnight. Furthermore, the damage to your personal and professional reputation in places like St. Louis County is immense. Accusations of kidnapping carry a significant social stigma, and even after serving time, the public perception can linger, making it challenging to regain trust and re-establish oneself within the community. Your standing, both professionally and personally, can be irrevocably compromised, affecting not just your livelihood but your social connections.
The Accusation: Understanding the State’s Case
What Does the State Allege? Kidnapping Explained in Plain English
Kidnapping, at its core, involves the intentional confinement or removal of another person without their consent. It’s not just about physically taking someone; it’s about controlling their movement, restricting their freedom, often with a specific intent in mind. This could involve moving someone from one location to another, or simply holding them against their will in a single place. The “without their consent” part is crucial – it means the person did not agree to be confined or moved in that manner.
The state will try to prove that you acted with a particular purpose beyond just the confinement itself. This could be to facilitate another crime, to hold someone for ransom, to terrorize them, or to commit a sexual act. It’s the combination of the unlawful confinement and the specific intent behind it that elevates an act to the serious charge of kidnapping. For someone facing this in Duluth, the implications are immediate and severe, as the state will meticulously build a case around these elements.
The Law on the Books: Minnesota Statute 609.251
Minnesota Statute 609.251, while seemingly concise, serves a vital purpose in how kidnapping charges interact with other potential offenses. It clarifies that a prosecution for or conviction of kidnapping does not prevent the state from also prosecuting and securing convictions for any other crimes committed during the period the kidnapping was ongoing. This means that if, for example, a robbery or assault occurred during the time someone was held captive, separate charges and punishments for those additional crimes can also be pursued.
609.251 DOUBLE JEOPARDY; KIDNAPPING.
Notwithstanding section 609.04, a prosecution for or conviction of the crime of kidnapping is not a bar to conviction of or punishment for any other crime committed during the time of the kidnapping.
The Prosecution’s Burden: Elements of Kidnapping
In any criminal case, the burden of proof rests squarely on the prosecution. For a kidnapping charge, the state must prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, every single element of the crime. If they fail to establish even one of these elements, the case against you crumbles. This is where a strategic defense attorney focuses their efforts, meticulously examining the evidence to expose weaknesses in the state’s case. Understanding these individual components is crucial for anyone facing such a serious accusation in St. Louis County, as it highlights the specific areas where the prosecution must meet their rigorous burden. Your defense centers on demonstrating that the state has not, in fact, proven each and every one of these essential parts of the crime.
- Asportation or Confinement: This element requires the state to prove that you either moved the alleged victim from one place to another (asportation) or confined them in one place (confinement). This movement or confinement must be substantial and not merely incidental to another crime. For example, if someone is simply moved a few feet during a robbery, it might not meet the standard for kidnapping asportation, but holding them in a locked room for an extended period would constitute confinement. The prosecution must demonstrate a clear and deliberate restriction of the alleged victim’s freedom of movement.
- Without Consent: The state must demonstrate that the alleged victim did not willingly agree to the movement or confinement. This means proving that the action was taken through force, threats, fraud, or some other form of coercion that overcame the victim’s will. If there was genuine consent, even if later regretted, this element is not met. This is often a highly contested element in kidnapping cases, requiring a thorough examination of the circumstances leading up to and during the alleged incident, and the state must provide compelling evidence to show the absence of consent.
- Specific Intent: Perhaps the most critical element, the prosecution must prove that you had a specific intent behind the kidnapping. This intent is what separates a kidnapping from other crimes that might involve some level of confinement. Common specific intents include: holding for ransom or reward, using the person as a shield or hostage, facilitating the commission of another crime, terrorizing the alleged victim or another person, or committing great bodily harm or a sexual assault. The state must present evidence that directly or indirectly points to one of these specific, unlawful purposes motivating the alleged kidnapping.
The Potential Outcome: Penalties for a Kidnapping Conviction
Facing a kidnapping charge in Minnesota is to confront the very real possibility of severe and life-altering penalties. The law does not treat these accusations lightly, reflecting the gravity with which the state views the unlawful deprivation of another’s freedom. The consequences can extend far beyond incarceration, impacting every facet of your future. Understanding these potential outcomes, which can vary based on the specific circumstances and any aggravating factors, is crucial for anyone navigating such a serious legal challenge in Northern Minnesota. The state seeks not just to punish, but to make an example, and the penalties reflect this intent.
Simple Kidnapping
Even in its “simplest” form, a kidnapping conviction carries a significant prison sentence. This typically applies when the victim is released in a safe place, no great bodily harm was inflicted, and no ransom was demanded. However, “simple” does not mean minor. A conviction for basic kidnapping can still result in a sentence of up to 20 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $30,000. This is a felony conviction that will forever alter your life and liberty, severely impacting your ability to return to a normal existence in communities like Duluth or Cloquet.
Aggravated Kidnapping
The penalties escalate dramatically if the kidnapping involves aggravating circumstances. These could include situations where the victim was subjected to great bodily harm, sexual assault, or held for ransom. If the alleged victim was under the age of 16 and not a member of your immediate family, the penalties also become more severe. Aggravated kidnapping convictions can lead to sentences of up to 40 years in prison, with fines reaching as high as $50,000. These are not just numbers on a statute; they represent decades taken from your life, a future irrevocably altered, and the complete stripping of your freedom.
The Battle Plan: Building Your Strategic Defense
An Accusation is Not a Conviction: The Fight Starts Now
When you are accused of kidnapping, it feels as though the entire world has already rendered a verdict. But an accusation, no matter how severe, is not a conviction. It is merely the state’s opening salvo, the beginning of a legal battle where the state must prove every single element of their case beyond a reasonable doubt. This is not a passive process where you simply wait for the outcome; this is the moment for a proactive, strategic counter-offensive. The fight for your freedom, your future, and your reputation begins the instant you are charged. The state has its narrative, but it is often incomplete, based on limited information, and subject to flaws.
My role is to rigorously test every piece of evidence, every witness statement, and every procedural step taken by the prosecution. The police report is not the final word; it is merely one perspective, and often a biased one. We will scrutinize how evidence was collected, whether your rights were upheld, and if the state can truly connect you to every element of the alleged crime. This is about dismantling their case brick by brick, exposing weaknesses, challenging assumptions, and ensuring that your story, and the truth, are fully brought to light. Your defense is not about hoping for a lucky break; it is about strategic planning, aggressive advocacy, and an unwavering commitment to challenging the state at every turn in the St. Louis County courts.
How a Kidnapping Charge Can Be Challenged in Court
Every kidnapping accusation, no matter how strong the state believes its case to be, is vulnerable to a robust legal challenge. A dedicated defense attorney will meticulously examine every facet of the prosecution’s claims, looking for inconsistencies, violations of your rights, or a lack of sufficient evidence to prove each necessary element of the crime. The path to challenging a kidnapping charge is multifaceted, often involving a combination of legal arguments and factual disputes aimed at undermining the state’s narrative.
Lack of Intent
This defense challenges the core mental state required for a kidnapping conviction.
- No Specific Purpose: The state must prove you had a specific intent to kidnap someone for a particular purpose (e.g., ransom, terrorizing, facilitating another crime). If the evidence shows your actions, while perhaps misguided or accidental, lacked this specific unlawful intent, the prosecution cannot meet its burden. For example, if someone was temporarily restrained during a heated argument but there was no underlying intent to hold them for a prolonged period or for any other criminal purpose, this element might be missing.
- Mistake of Fact: If you genuinely believed you had consent to transport or confine someone, even if that belief was mistaken, it could negate the criminal intent required for kidnapping. This is particularly relevant in situations where communication was unclear or there was a misunderstanding between parties. The defense would argue that your actions, though perhaps leading to a confinement, were not performed with the necessary criminal mind.
Consent
This defense directly contradicts the state’s claim that the alleged victim was moved or confined against their will.
- Voluntary Movement/Confinement: If the alleged victim willingly accompanied you or remained in a location without coercion, then the “without consent” element of kidnapping is absent. This often requires demonstrating that the individual had ample opportunity to leave or decline to go, and chose not to. Evidence such as text messages, witness testimony, or surveillance footage could be crucial here to show the voluntary nature of the interaction.
- Prior Agreement or Understanding: In some situations, there may have been a prior agreement or understanding, however informal, that led to the circumstances interpreted as kidnapping. If it can be shown that the alleged victim had, at some point, consented to the general nature of the interaction or the location, it can significantly weaken the state’s claim of lack of consent, even if the situation later escalated or changed.
Lack of Asportation or Confinement
This defense focuses on whether the physical act of moving or confining the victim meets the legal definition.
- Insufficient Movement: For asportation, the movement of the victim must be substantial and not merely incidental to another crime. If the alleged movement was minimal and did not significantly increase the danger to the victim or make their escape more difficult, a defense can argue it does not meet the legal standard for kidnapping. This often comes into play when other charges, like assault, are also being considered.
- Brief and Temporary Restraint: If the alleged confinement was extremely brief and fleeting, and there was no intent to hold the person for an extended period or for a specific criminal purpose, it may not constitute kidnapping. For example, a momentary restraint during a struggle might be an assault but not necessarily a kidnapping, particularly if the individual was immediately released and no further intent was evident.
Violation of Constitutional Rights
This defense centers on police misconduct or procedural errors during the investigation.
- Illegal Search and Seizure: If evidence against you was obtained through an unlawful search without a warrant or probable cause, that evidence can be suppressed, potentially crippling the prosecution’s case. This would involve a detailed examination of how police gathered physical evidence or statements from your property or person.
- Coerced Confession: If a confession was obtained through threats, promises, or other coercive tactics by law enforcement, it can be deemed inadmissible in court. This requires demonstrating that your statements were not made freely and voluntarily, and that police tactics overrode your free will.
- Failure to Read Miranda Rights: If you were subjected to custodial interrogation without first being read your Miranda warnings (right to remain silent, right to an attorney), any statements made during that interrogation may be excluded from evidence. This is a fundamental right that must be upheld by law enforcement during questioning.
Defense in Action: Scenarios in Northern Minnesota
The Bemidji Disagreement
In Bemidji, a couple has a heated argument in their home. In a moment of anger, one partner locks the other in a room for an hour, shouting that they need to “cool down” before they can talk. The locked door is easily opened from the inside with a twist knob. The other partner, feeling violated, calls the police and reports kidnapping.
In this scenario, a defense based on Lack of Asportation or Confinement could be strategically applied. While the act of locking the door constitutes confinement, the defense would argue that the duration was minimal, the means of escape was readily available, and there was no specific criminal intent beyond a momentary, misguided attempt to de-escalate an argument. The defense would emphasize that the intent was not to hold the person for ransom, cause harm, or facilitate another crime, but rather a temporary, ill-advised attempt at creating space during a domestic dispute, which does not meet the high bar for a kidnapping charge.
The Cloquet Car Ride
A group of friends in Cloquet are out for the evening. After a night of socializing, one friend offers another a ride home. During the drive, they have a disagreement about the route, and the driver refuses to stop at the passenger’s requested location, instead continuing on for several miles before eventually letting them out at a different spot. The passenger, feeling trapped, alleges kidnapping.
Here, a defense centered on Consent or Lack of Intent could be powerful. While the driver may have been stubborn or rude, the initial agreement to enter the car suggests consent for the ride. The argument would be that the driver’s refusal to immediately stop was a lapse in judgment or an attempt to make a point, not an act with the specific intent to kidnap. The defense would highlight that the passenger eventually exited the vehicle safely, and the deviation was not for a criminal purpose, but rather a dispute about directions.
The Proctor Business Dispute
In Proctor, two business partners have a falling out. One partner, frustrated with the other, corners them in their shared office for 15 minutes, blocking the doorway and refusing to let them leave until they sign a document. The document is related to a business agreement, not a criminal matter. The trapped partner eventually signs under duress and later reports kidnapping.
This scenario calls for a defense focusing on Lack of Specific Intent and Lack of Asportation or Confinement. While there was undoubtedly a confinement, the defense would argue that the intent was solely to compel the signing of a business document, not to hold the person for ransom, cause bodily harm, or facilitate a distinct criminal act. Furthermore, the confinement was brief, limited to the office, and related directly to a business dispute, which may not meet the legal threshold for the severe charge of kidnapping.
The Two Harbors Camping Trip
A family from Two Harbors goes camping. One teenager, upset about having their phone confiscated, decides to run away into the woods. The parents, frantic with worry, find them later that night and, to prevent further escape, gently restrain them and guide them back to the campsite, holding their arms firmly. The teenager later reports feeling “kidnapped” by their parents.
In this instance, a defense of Consent (implied consent of a minor to parental authority) combined with a strong argument for Lack of Criminal Intent would be paramount. The parents’ actions were clearly motivated by concern for their child’s safety and well-being, not by any criminal purpose. The restraint was temporary, non-injurious, and directly aimed at preventing harm. The defense would argue that their actions, while involving a restriction of movement, were within the bounds of parental responsibility and entirely lacked the malicious intent required for a kidnapping charge.
The Advocate: Why a Dedicated Duluth Defense Attorney is Essential
Countering the Resources of the State
When facing a kidnapping accusation in Duluth, you are not just up against a prosecutor; you are up against the full, formidable power of the State of Minnesota. This means unlimited resources: investigators, forensic experts, endless legal staff, and the authority to compel testimony and gather evidence. This is a machine designed to secure convictions. Trying to navigate this alone is akin to standing unarmed against a military force. A dedicated defense attorney is your essential counterweight, your shield, and your sword in this battle. My role is to level the playing field, to ensure that every resource available to the defense is brought to bear, and to fight relentlessly against the overwhelming force of the state. I will command my own investigations, engage independent experts, and tirelessly analyze every piece of evidence to find the weaknesses in their case and build the strongest possible defense for you.
Strategic Command of the St. Louis County Courts
The legal landscape of St. Louis County, encompassing Duluth, Two Harbors, and the surrounding areas, is unique and complex. Understanding the specific procedures, the tendencies of individual judges, and the unwritten rules of the local courts is not something that can be learned overnight. It comes from years of dedicated practice, building relationships, and mastering the nuances of the local legal system. A dedicated defense attorney brings this invaluable strategic command to your case. I know the court personnel, I understand the local prosecution’s typical approaches, and I can anticipate their moves. This deep-seated knowledge of the St. Louis County courts allows for precise strategic decisions, from jury selection to motion practice, giving you a critical advantage in the fight for your freedom.
Fighting for Your Story, Not Just the Police Report
The police report, often the foundation of the state’s case, tells only one side of the story – the police’s interpretation, often biased and incomplete. When you are accused of kidnapping, your narrative, your truth, is often buried or ignored. A dedicated defense attorney understands that behind every accusation is a person with a history, motivations, and a perspective that the state often fails to consider. My commitment is to fight for your story. This means meticulously investigating every detail, interviewing witnesses, uncovering exculpative evidence, and challenging every assumption made by the prosecution. I will work tirelessly to present a comprehensive, compelling picture of events that goes beyond the superficial and often misleading narrative presented by the police, ensuring that the court understands the full context of what transpired.
An Unwavering Commitment to a Winning Result
Facing a kidnapping charge is not just a legal problem; it is a personal crisis that threatens to unravel your life. In such a high-stakes battle, you need more than just legal advice; you need an unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible outcome. For me, a winning result means relentless advocacy, whether that leads to a dismissal of charges, a favorable plea agreement, or a decisive victory at trial. My commitment is to fight for your future with every tool at my disposal, leaving no stone unturned in the pursuit of justice. This means being prepared to challenge the state at every turn, to meticulously analyze evidence, to skillfully negotiate, and if necessary, to fight aggressively in the courtroom, all with the singular goal of protecting your freedom and your future in Northern Minnesota.
Your Questions Answered
What should I do immediately after being accused of kidnapping?
The absolute first step is to remain silent and immediately contact a criminal defense attorney. Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present, and do not make any statements, no matter how innocent they may seem. Anything you say can and will be used against you, and innocent explanations can easily be twisted by the prosecution.
Can I be charged with kidnapping if the person eventually agreed to go with me?
Even if the alleged victim later consented or was released, you can still face kidnapping charges if the initial confinement or movement was without their consent and had a specific unlawful intent. The state focuses on the initial act and the underlying purpose, not just the eventual outcome.
What is the difference between false imprisonment and kidnapping in Minnesota?
False imprisonment involves unlawfully confining someone, but it generally lacks the specific criminal intent or the element of asportation (movement) that is typically required for a kidnapping charge. Kidnapping is a more severe offense with harsher penalties due to the added intent or movement.
Will I go to jail if convicted of kidnapping?
Yes, a conviction for kidnapping in Minnesota almost invariably results in significant prison time, as it is a felony offense with severe statutory penalties. The specific sentence depends on the degree of the crime and any aggravating factors involved in the case.
How important is the victim’s testimony in a kidnapping case?
The victim’s testimony is often central to the prosecution’s case in a kidnapping charge, as it can provide direct evidence of lack of consent and the circumstances of the alleged confinement or movement. However, a skilled defense attorney can challenge inconsistencies or credibility issues.
Can a kidnapping charge be dropped?
While challenging, a kidnapping charge can be dropped if the prosecution realizes they lack sufficient evidence, if critical evidence is suppressed due to constitutional violations, or if a strong defense is presented that undermines their case. This is a primary goal of a dedicated defense attorney.
What are some common defenses against kidnapping charges?
Common defenses include arguing lack of criminal intent, demonstrating the alleged victim consented, challenging the extent of movement or confinement, or asserting that your constitutional rights were violated during the investigation. Each case’s facts dictate the most effective defense.
How long does a kidnapping case typically take?
The duration of a kidnapping case varies significantly depending on the complexity of the facts, the amount of evidence, and the court’s schedule. These are serious felony cases and can take many months, or even over a year, to resolve through negotiations or trial.
What if I was falsely accused of kidnapping?
If you are falsely accused, it is absolutely critical to immediately seek legal representation. A dedicated defense attorney will work tirelessly to gather evidence that proves your innocence, challenge the accuser’s credibility, and present a compelling case that refutes the false claims.
Can a minor be charged with kidnapping in Minnesota?
Yes, minors can be charged with serious offenses like kidnapping, though their cases are typically handled within the juvenile court system. The consequences can still be severe, including detention and a juvenile record, emphasizing the need for an attorney.
Does it matter where the alleged kidnapping occurred in Northern Minnesota?
While the legal statutes are statewide, the specific location (e.g., Duluth, St. Louis County, Bemidji) can influence local court procedures, jury pools, and even the approach of local prosecutors. An attorney familiar with Northern Minnesota courts is beneficial.
What is the role of evidence in a kidnapping case?
Evidence is paramount in a kidnapping case. This can include witness statements, surveillance footage, phone records, forensic evidence, and physical evidence. A defense attorney will rigorously analyze all evidence for weaknesses and potential challenges.
Can plea bargaining be an option in a kidnapping case?
Plea bargaining can be an option, particularly if the state’s case has weaknesses or if there are mitigating circumstances. However, any plea involving a serious felony like kidnapping must be carefully considered with an attorney to understand all long-term consequences.
What if I confessed to kidnapping under duress?
If you confessed due to threats, coercion, or unlawful pressure from law enforcement, that confession may be deemed inadmissible in court. Your attorney can file a motion to suppress such statements, challenging their voluntariness.
How does a dedicated defense attorney fight a kidnapping charge?
A dedicated defense attorney fights by meticulously investigating the facts, challenging the state’s evidence, filing motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, and if necessary, aggressively representing you at trial to secure the best possible outcome.
What impact does a kidnapping charge have on my family?
A kidnapping charge creates immense stress and disruption for your family, impacting their emotional well-being, financial stability, and public perception. Your attorney will fight not just for you, but for the future and stability of your loved ones.
Is it possible to appeal a kidnapping conviction?
Yes, if you are convicted of kidnapping, you generally have the right to appeal the conviction based on legal errors that occurred during the trial. An attorney can assess the grounds for an appeal and guide you through the process.
What if the alleged victim was a family member?
Kidnapping charges involving family members are particularly complex and emotionally charged. While family dynamics can be central to the defense, the legal elements of the crime still apply, and the state can pursue charges even in domestic contexts.
How does the prosecution prove specific intent in a kidnapping case?
The prosecution often proves specific intent through circumstantial evidence, such as statements made by the accused, the nature of the confinement, any demands made, or the context of other crimes committed during the alleged kidnapping.
What are my rights during a police interrogation for kidnapping?
You have the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and the right to stop answering questions at any time. Exercise these rights immediately. Do not waive them without speaking to a lawyer.
What if I cannot afford a private attorney for a kidnapping charge?
If you cannot afford a private attorney, the court will appoint a public defender to represent you. However, it is crucial to understand the difference in resources and caseloads, and to still seek independent advice if possible.
How long does a criminal record for kidnapping last?
A felony conviction for kidnapping in Minnesota remains on your criminal record permanently and cannot be expunged in most circumstances. This permanent mark has significant long-term consequences on your life.
Can a kidnapping charge be enhanced due to certain factors?
Yes, a kidnapping charge can be enhanced if certain aggravating factors are present, such as the use of a dangerous weapon, infliction of great bodily harm, sexual assault, or if the victim was a vulnerable person like a child.
What is the importance of an alibi in a kidnapping case?
An alibi is crucial if you can prove you were in a different location at the time the alleged kidnapping occurred. It directly contradicts the prosecution’s claim that you committed the crime and can be a powerful defense.
What are the first steps my attorney will take in defending me against a kidnapping charge?
My first steps will be to review the charging documents, gather all police reports and initial evidence, assess your legal rights that may have been violated, and begin a comprehensive independent investigation into the allegations to build your defense strategy.