Kidnapping Attorney in Columbus
Defending Clients Accused of Kidnapping & Abduction
Kidnapping is considered an extremely serious offense in Ohio that can result in steep penalties for the convicted individual. This type of crime is vigorously investigated by law enforcement and will require the expertise of a legal advocate who has the resources to fully investigate the facts of your criminal accusation. It is strongly advised that you contact a Columbus criminal defense lawyer immediately if you have been arrested for kidnapping. With the assistance of a knowledgeable attorney, a compelling case can be developed to aid you in your fight to exonerate you of the charges.
Definition of Kidnapping in Ohio
According to an Ohio statute, kidnapping is defined as "restraining the liberty of another person." While this definition has the potential to create double jeopardy in certain criminal convictions, as rape, robbery, or assault could all be described in a similar manner, there is an additional statute that prohibits multiple convictions for the same conduct. This effectively erases the double jeopardy risk in Ohio kidnapping cases.
Acts that can be considered kidnapping in Ohio:
- Holding a person hostage or for ransom
- Involuntary servitude
- Abducting a child
- Tying somebody up and not letting them leave
- Forcing someone to get into a car against their will
Penalties for Kidnapping
Kidnapping is considered a first-degree felony, unless the victim is returned unharmed in a safe place, in which case it becomes a second-degree felony. Penalties for this crime can include significant jail or prison sentences, and possibly even capital punishment if an aggravating factor (such as the death of the victim) is involved.
Why Hire a Columbus Kidnapping Lawyer?
The Meranda Law Firm LTD is a criminal defense firm with substantial experience in assisting individuals in criminal cases. We have provided representation to clients in cases ranging from kidnapping to assault, and we have fought diligently to obtain favorable results in each and every case. If you have been arrested and charged with kidnapping, contact our offices immediately so that we may begin to build a defense strategy than can help you fight your kidnapping charges.
Contact a Columbus criminal attorney for skilled and dedicated legal defense in your kidnapping case.
Hear From Our Happy Clients
Reviews & Testimonials
At The Meranda Law Firm LTD, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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I couldn't have asked for a better attorney. I've had other attorneys and Zach is the only one that actually knew my case and put a lot of time and effort into making sure the outcome was good, which it definitely was. I really think he is one of the best attorneys & I highly recommend him to anyone that needs legal help.- Payton R
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Zach is incredibly professional and will work as hard as he can for you, no matter how big or small your case is. He shows genuine concern and interest in his client and the situation. He is straight forward and honest. Zach was the third attorney on my case and the only one that actually took the time to become familiar with my case. He was not intimidated as my previous attorneys were and his competency resulted in my case ending in a very satisfying outcome.- Rylan Burrie
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I am very happy with The Meranda Law Firm. I hired Mr. Meranda to help me with a case and i am very pleased with the outcome. I would recommend him to everybody he's a very good lawyer.- Kristina Poulton
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Zach is a great attorney. He has represented me twice and both times I got positive results. If you need an attorney call The Meranda Law Firm, he's the best.- Frances Benson
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Mr. Meranda does his research! He is very professional and promotes himself and law firm in a great manner. He digs to find the facts and will work hard for you. He makes sure you understand what you are facing and will try to come to the best outcome possible. He is easy to talk to and he tells you “like it is.” He is an upfront, affordable lawyer. I highly recommend The Meranda Law Firm to anyone who is seeking help.- Anonymous
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Zach Meranda was a real attorney with a no bull shit strategy!!! But he won my criminal case even when the odds were against me and I thank him and his associates!!- Pfeifer
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There are three reasons I recommend Zachuary Meranda if you are arrested for DUI. First off, he is a straight shooter. Never did he sugar coat my situation. Second, he handled everything while keeping me informed and walked me through everything as it progressed. Third, he got me the result- NO DUI!!! Thanks Zak!- Shane Dolen
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Professional, upfront, attentive, most of all comforting in the fact that the communication was clear. Never a doubt by always respectful. Admired the standard in which the company, more so Zach, displayed. I was so impressed and would if needed use his services again.- Anonymous
Have Questions?
We Have Answers!
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Should I be worried if I am innocent?The short answer to this question is yes. Our legal system, though endowed with powerful rights and time-tested procedures, is far from perfect. Proclaiming yourself innocent is far from a legal defense, and you will need the assistance of an experienced attorney to gather information and refute evidence. It is a sad fact that innocent people are sometimes convicted of crimes they did not commit. If you have been arrested, a team member from The Meranda Law Firm LTD, serving both Columbus and Newark, can go to immediate work on constructing a strong defense and on seeking to have unfounded charges dropped.
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What important legal rights am I entitled to?If you find yourself crossways with the law, you have important rights that must be protected. First, you have the right to be informed of your rights by police should you be arrested. You have the right to remain silent, which can help you avoid self-incrimination. You also have the right to avoid subjection to an unreasonable search and seizure. Perhaps most importantly is your right to an attorney, and should you face criminal investigation or arrest, you should be in immediate contact with a Columbus criminal defense attorney for knowledgeable and skilled legal counsel.
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Why should I hire a criminal defense attorney?When you are facing a criminal charge, whether a misdemeanor or a felony, your future stands at serious risk. Not only do you face the prospect of jail time, fines, and probation, but if you are convicted you will also carry with you a permanent criminal record that can make such things as obtaining employment, educational opportunities and housing problematic. A lawyer can make sure that your legal rights are well-protected and that a strong defense is mounted on your behalf. Going it alone in the criminal justice system can put you in peril of many unwanted consequences.
