While kidnapping for cash is not as common in the United States as it is in places like Baghdad, Colombia, and Haiti, kidnapping in America is still a common occurrence. Kidnapping in the United States is usually in the form of child abduction by sexual predators and pedophiles. Parents that “kidnap” their own children, say from the other parent, also make up a percentage of kidnappings in the United States. “Bride kidnapping” makes up a small percentage of U.S. kidnappings as well.

Under both federal and state law, kidnapping is defined as “the taking of a person from one place to another against his or her will.” It can also be defined as “the confining of a person to a controlled space.” In some states, kidnapping laws require that the taking or confining be for extortion, for the facilitation of a crime, or some other unlawful purpose. Additionally, a parent that does not have legal custody rights to a child may be charged with kidnapping for taking his or her own child out of the custody of another parent, a foster home, or a relative or legal guardian.

If you have been accused of any type of kidnapping, whether you are guilty or not, you should hire a criminal lawyer or attorney. If you are suing a convicted criminal for damages resulting from kidnapping, you should hire a civil lawyer or attorney. If the person was not convicted and you want to sue for damages, you should still hire a civil lawyer or attorney. Criminal lawyers and attorneys represent individuals who have been charged with crimes by arguing their cases in courts of law. A criminal lawyer or attorney will typically have a private practice concentrating on criminal law.

If you have been arrested for kidnapping, you must request an attorney at the time you are arrested or contact a private criminal lawyer or attorney immediately. A criminal attorney will be familiar with important Kidnapping laws of the state in which the crime took place, they will be familiar with local court customs and procedures, and they will also have a clear understanding of the "hidden costs" of pleading guilty.

If you are ready to contact a criminal lawyer or attorney, visit the American Bar Association. The American Bar Association website offers free access to their lawyer locator to help you find a criminal lawyer or attorney in your area.

Find legal information and lawyers that specialize in Criminal Law by state: