If you have been charged with unlawful imprisonment in New York State, you may be wondering what your legal options are. Our dedicated Buffalo criminal attorney discusses important information regarding unlawful imprisonment charges and various defenses that can be used in court.
Unlawful Imprisonment Charges | Unlawful Imprisonment in the First Degree
As a dedicated Buffalo Criminal Attorney, I often defend clients that have been charged with unlawful imprisonment in the first degree. This is considered a Class E felony which is punishable by up to four years in a state prison. Unlawfully restraining a person against their will and exposing them to the risk of serious physical injury constitutes unlawful imprisonment.
Unlawful Imprisonment Charges | Unlawful Imprisonment in the Second Degree
As an experienced Buffalo Criminal Lawyer, I often speak to people who were charged with unlawful imprisonment in the second degree. New York State considers unlawful imprisonment in the second degree a Class A misdemeanor. Unlawfully restraining someone against their will is chargeable as unlawful imprisonment. This Class A misdemeanor is a criminal offense, and conviction will cause the offender to have a criminal record. Second degree unlawful imprisonment may be punished with as much as a year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
Unlawful Imprisonment Charges | Defenses Against Unlawful Imprisonment
As a dedicated Buffalo Criminal Attorney, I often speak to clients about defenses they can take when arrested for unlawful imprisonment. If you have been charged with unlawful imprisonment in the first or second degree in New York State, a defense may be available to you. If, while disciplining a child less than 16 years of age, a person who is a relative of that child is restraining the child for the sole purpose of gaining control of the child, that is considered an affirmative defense in New York State. In cases where a relative is merely gaining control of a child, the accused person may be found not guilty or have the charges dismissed.
Have you or a loved one been charged with unlawful imprisonment? If so, you will need legal defense from a dedicated and well-practiced attorney. Contact our experienced Buffalo criminal defense attorney today to schedule a free consultation.
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