False imprisonment is a serious charge in the state of New Jersey. You may think you can handle this on your own, but you should contact a false imprisonment attorney before you set foot in a courtroom. An attorney can explain to you the charge, the penalties, and your options.

What Is False Imprisonment?

False imprisonment is charged if a person knowingly restrains another person in an unlawful manner that substantially interferes with that person’s liberty. However, don’t confuse it with criminal restraint, which is when the victim has been exposed to serious bodily injury. But you may be charged if you have been knowingly keeping a person somewhere they don’t want to be and made them unable to leave. Because of this, your reason for holding the victim and your relationship to them will be questioned.

What Are The Penalties?

A conviction does have complications. A conviction can get you up to 6 months in jail and up to $1,000 in fines. In addition, you’ll face a criminal record, possible community service, and potential assessment fees to the Violent Crimes Compensation Board. A criminal record will stay with you and will cost money to get expunged. In order to avoid these penalties, you’ll want to call a false imprisonment attorney as soon as possible.

What Are My Options?

An attorney can have your charges dismissed or reduced with the right evidence. If you were restraining a minor child that you are a relative or legal guardian of and you were trying to gain control, this will get dismissed. If not, but you acted under good faith belief that you had a duty to restrain the person, it may also be dismissed. Also, to reduce the charges, you may be able to claim a municipal ordinance instead of a criminal defense. A false imprisonment attorney will be able to advise you on your best course of action.

Call Leon Matchin Today

Attorney Leon Matchin has over 10 years of experience dealing with false imprisonment and can help you with any other legal case you are involved in. Call Leon Matchin at 732-887-2479, or email him at [email protected] for a free, no-strings-attached consultation.