Domestic Kidnapping Giving You a Fighting Chance

RI Domestic Kidnapping Attorney

RI Custody & Parental Kidnapping Laws

In regard to child custody in Rhode Island, one or both parties may not agree to the terms determined by a judge. Sometimes, one parent or legal guardian may have possession of their child longer than expected or go so far as to kidnap the child, although they do not believe they are doing such a thing. However, it is still considered a crime, especially when a person fails to comply or violates court orders and custodial/visitation rights.

If you are accused of child snatching, our RI domestic kidnapping lawyer at The Law Office of Thomas C. Thomasian, Esq. is committed to helping you fight these charges against you. Whether it’s because your failure to return a child was due to circumstances out of your control or some other incident, he can provide you with the experienced and skilled legal representation necessary to protect your rights and reputation.

Discuss your case in a free consultation with our team today!

RI Parental Kidnapping Definition and Penalties

According to Rhode Island General Laws, child snatching is defined as taking a child under 18 years of age with intent to deny another party’s right of custody based on an existing decree or family court order. Those charged with child snatching shall be charged with a felony. You could completely lose what child custody rights you have now.

Penalties for child snatching may include:

  • A maximum prison sentence of 2 years
  • A fine of up to $10,000

If you are accused of domestic child snatching, you have to take the accusations seriously. If you have other marks on your criminal record, especially some pertaining to domestic violence, it is possible that your penalties could be worsened.

Legal Defenses for Parental Kidnapping

However, our RI domestic kidnapping lawyer can use the following as affirmative defenses for child snatching:

  • The defendant had possessed legal visitation rights or lawful custody which was ordered by the court
  • The defendant was retreating an occurrence or pattern of domestic violence
  • The defendant couldn’t return the child in a timely manner due to unforeseeable and uncontrollable circumstances, despite attempting to contact or inform the other party
  • The defendant made an attempt to return the child within 24 hours after visitation was complete

Experienced, Skilled & Trustworthy Legal Representation

Sometimes, a child-snatching case can be construed as a miscommunication between both parties or as complicated as denying a parent’s rights to their child. Our RI domestic kidnapping lawyer possesses the in-depth understanding of the state laws and court processes in order to help you get your charges reduced or completely dismissed. Not only can conviction result in prison time and expensive fines, but also the loss of custody of your child.

Contact The Law Office of Thomas C. Thomasian and schedule your free consultation today.

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