Iowa City & Davenport Kidnapping Attorney
Aggressive Defense For Kidnapping Charges in Quad City and Cedar Rapids
Being accused of kidnapping is a serious matter. You could face years or even decades in prison if you are convicted. You will also have a criminal record that could follow you for the rest of your life. If you are facing kidnapping charges, it is important to have an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side who knows how to protect your rights and your future.
At Keegan, Tindal & Jaeger, our Iowa City kidnapping defense lawyers know how to build a strong defense strategy on your behalf and will fight to get the charges against you reduced or dismissed.
Call Keegan, Tindal & Jaeger today at (319) 499-5524 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our kidnapping lawyer in Iowa City.
What is Kidnapping?
Kidnapping is considered a serious criminal offense that involves the unlawful and intentional abduction or confinement of another person against their will. In Iowa, kidnapping is classified into different degrees based on the severity of the crime. First-degree kidnapping involves the use of a dangerous weapon, resulting in serious injury or sexual abuse, while second-degree kidnapping encompasses other instances of unlawful abduction.
Understanding that the prosecution must prove specific elements to secure a kidnapping conviction is crucial. This includes demonstrating that the defendant knowingly restrained another person with the intent to commit certain criminal acts.
What are the Penalties for Kidnapping in Iowa?
The penalties for kidnapping in Iowa are severe and vary depending on the degree of the offense. First-degree kidnapping is a Class A felony, carrying a possible life sentence in prison without the possibility of parole. Second-degree kidnapping is considered a Class B felony, which is punishable by up to 25 years in prison. The consequences of a kidnapping conviction extend beyond incarceration, impacting various aspects of your life, including employment opportunities, relationships, and your overall reputation.
Defenses Against Kidnapping Charges
Mounting an effective defense against kidnapping charges requires a thorough understanding of the law and a keen ability to challenge the prosecution's evidence. Some common defenses against kidnapping charges may include:
- Lack of Intent: One crucial element the prosecution must establish is the defendant's intent to commit a crime. We can scrutinize the evidence to challenge the prosecution's ability to prove that the alleged abduction was intentional and had criminal motives.
- False Accusations: Kidnapping charges can sometimes stem from misunderstandings or false accusations. We can investigate the circumstances surrounding your specific case to identify any inconsistencies in witness statements or evidence that may point to a lack of credibility.
- Consent: If the alleged victim had willingly participated in the movement or confinement, it can be a powerful defense against kidnapping charges. We can explore the details of the situation to determine if there was informed and voluntary consent.
- Insufficient Evidence: We can thoroughly review the evidence presented by the prosecution, looking for weaknesses or inconsistencies that could be used to challenge the case against you.
Contact Our Kidnapping Attorney in Iowa City Today
When facing kidnapping charges, time is of the essence. The sooner you secure legal representation, the better chance you have of building a robust defense. At Keegan, Tindal & Jaeger, our Iowa City kidnapping attorneys are ready to stand by your side and defend your rights.
We will assess the details of your case, provide expert guidance, and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you. With Keegan, Tindal & Jaeger, you have a dedicated ally in navigating the complexities of the legal system and protecting your future.
Contact Keegan, Tindal & Jaeger today to get started with our Iowa City kidnapping attorney.
Successful Results for Our Clients
Protecting Your Freedom & Rights
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Not Guilty First Degree Murder
FECR414361 - Scott County. Defendant was charged with First Degree Murder. During the week-long bench trial, Andrea and Eric rigorously cross-examined the State's witnesses and presented multiple expert witnesses in support of the defense. The defendant was found Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity.
Federal Crimes -
Charges Dismissed Operating While Intoxicated
Linn County OWCR108050. Attorney Dean Keegan's client was charged with Operating While Intoxicated. After reviewing videos, Mr. Keegan filed a motion to suppress, stating his client was never told the Datamaster results could be used against him in court. In fact, the client was essentially informed the test results would not be used against him. Mr. Keegan won the motion and the State dismissed the charges. The client's license was reinstated
OWI/DUI -
Charge Dismissed Operating While Intoxicated
Johnson County No. OWCR090631 - Coralville, Iowa. After Attorney Keegan deposed the State's witnesses in this case, the State agreed to dismiss the charges for lack of evidence that Mr. Keegan's client was intoxicated.
OWI/DUI -
Record Expunged Operating While Intoxicated
Johnson OWCR106890. Attorney Dean Keegan's client received an Operating While Intoxicated, a serious misdemeanor. After reviewing the videos, Mr. Keegan filed a Motion to Suppress arguing the officer denied his client's right to make a phone call. The State declined to present testimony at the hearing and the Motion to Suppress was granted, making the client eligible for a deferred judgment. Mr. Keegan's client will have her record expunged and be able to obtain a license after 90 days instead of 180.
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Acquitted of First Degree Murder at Trial First Degree Murder and Child Endangerment Causing Death
Henry County FECR005634. Attorney Tindal’s client was charged with First Degree Murder and Child Endangerment Causing Death. Following a two week trial, the Defendant was acquitted of all charges.
Federal Crimes -
Acquitted of Multiple Forcible Felonies 2nd Degree Sexual Abuse; 1st Degree Burglary
Client found not guilty of all charges, including Sex Abuse in the 2nd Degree and Burglary in the 1st Degree, following a week-long jury trial in Cedar County case FECR026469.
Federal Crimes
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I’m very grateful as well as appreciative for you representing me.
“My name is Charles A. W. and I was represented by Andrea D. Jaeger of the law firm Keegan, Tindal, & Jaeger. And I must say that Andrea’s a very confident, charismatic woman in the courtroom. Her poise was always on point and she never wavered, any and everything that transpired in or out of the courtroom I was made aware of, promptly and professionally always. From the beginning of my indictment all the way until my sentencing, Andrea made me feel calm, comfortable, and most of all content!! Please keep up the great work, Andrea, and I’m very grateful as well as appreciative for you representing me. (Thank you very much.)”- Charles W.
