Birmingham Kidnapping Defense Lawyers

Kidnapping is a grave crime that is taken very seriously by the Alabama legal system. The act of kidnapping involves unlawfully abducting or confining another individual against their will. This can occur in varying degrees, each with its own set of consequences upon conviction. Kidnapping falls under the umbrella of violent crimes.

At Revill Law Firm, we understand the seriousness of these charges and their impact on your life, from court sentencing to the collateral damage of a permanent stain on your criminal record. Our team of experienced attorneys is prepared to provide robust legal defense for those accused, arrested, or formally charged with kidnapping.

Contact us online or call (205) 928-6544 to schedule a free initial consultation with our Birmingham kidnapping defense attorneys for legal advice and guidance.

Kidnapping Charges in Alabama

The crime of kidnapping In Alabama is defined under Alabama Code 13A-6-43 and Alabama Code 13A-6-44. These laws divide kidnapping into two degrees – first and second.

Kidnapping in the first degree under Alabama Code 13A-6-32 occurs when an individual abducts another person with the intent to hold them for ransom or reward, use them as a shield or hostage, accomplish or aid the commission of a felony, or inflict physical injury or terrorize the victim or another person.

Kidnapping in the first degree is considered a Class A felony.

Under Alabama Code 13A-6-44, kidnapping in the second degree is committed when an individual abducts another person. In this case, the intent behind the act is not considered, making it a less severe crime than first-degree kidnapping. However, it is still a serious offense classified as a Class B felony.

Penalties for a Kidnapping Conviction

The penalties for these charges are significant. A Class A felony, such as first-degree kidnapping, can lead to a prison sentence between 10 years and life, along with hefty fines. A Class B felony, such as second-degree kidnapping, carries a prison term ranging from two to 20 years, also accompanied by substantial fines.

Collateral Damage

Having a kidnapping felony record can lead to significant collateral damage, affecting various aspects of your life. These consequences extend beyond the immediate penalties of imprisonment and fines imposed by the court.

According to a U.S. Commission on Civil Rights report, criminal records can have far-reaching effects on a person's ability to secure employment. Employers may hesitate to hire individuals with felony records, which can severely limit job opportunities and financial stability.

Moreover, a felony record can affect a person's housing prospects. Landlords might be reluctant to rent to someone with such a serious conviction, making it difficult for individuals to find stable housing after serving their sentence. This can further exacerbate the challenges faced when trying to reintegrate into society.

Those convicted of a felony are also barred from possessing or using firearms. Lastly, the social stigma associated with a felony record, particularly for a crime as severe as kidnapping, can lead to isolation and difficulty in rebuilding one's life post-conviction.