A kidnapping charge in Madison County, New York, is a serious felony under New York Penal Law § 135.20, carrying severe penalties. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those facing kidnapping or abduction charges in Madison County. Our firm, founded in 1997, has a documented record of handling complex criminal cases. We offer 24/7 consultations to discuss your situation.
Kidnapping Charges Under New York Law
In New York, kidnapping is defined in the Penal Law as the unlawful abduction, confinement, or restraint of another person. The severity of the charge and its penalties depend heavily on the specific circumstances, such as the victim’s age, whether a ransom was demanded, or if the victim was released unharmed. Kidnapping in the second degree (N.Y. Penal Law § 135.20) is a Class B felony, while kidnapping in the first degree (N.Y. Penal Law § 135.25) is a Class A-I felony, the most serious classification in the state.
Last verified: April 2026 | Madison County Criminal Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to the New York Penal Law § 135.20 on the New York State Senate website. Court procedures and local rules for Madison County cases are available through the Madison County Supreme Court website.
- Secure immediate legal representation after an arrest or accusation.
- Your attorney will review all evidence, including police reports and witness statements.
- File pre-trial motions to challenge the legality of evidence or the sufficiency of the charges.
- Negotiate with the District Attorney’s office for a potential reduction or favorable plea, if appropriate.
- Prepare for trial, presenting a defense that addresses the specific elements the prosecution must prove.
Potential Penalties for Kidnapping in Madison County
In Madison County, a kidnapping conviction carries a potential prison sentence of up to 25 years for a Class B felony and 15 years to life for a Class A-I felony, along with substantial fines and permanent felony status.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kidnapping 2nd Degree | Class B Felony | 5 to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | Post-release supervision, permanent felony record |
| Kidnapping 1st Degree | Class A-I Felony | 15 years to life | Up to $5,000 | Post-release supervision, permanent violent felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of handling serious felony charges, including those involving allegations of abduction and unlawful restraint. Our approach is to meticulously analyze the prosecution’s case, identify weaknesses, and build a defense focused on the specific facts and legal standards required for a kidnapping conviction.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes in criminal cases. In Madison County, we have 45 total documented case results across all practice areas. We apply this experience to vigorously defend clients facing serious allegations. Every case is unique, and we develop a strategy based on the specific circumstances.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Madison County Kidnapping Defense Lawyer
Our New York location serves clients in Madison County. We are accessible for those needing a kidnapping charge defense lawyer Madison County residents can consult.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Buffalo, NY
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Buffalo, New York 14202 Office No. 142, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
We serve communities including Wampsville, Oneida, Canastota, Cazenovia, Hamilton, Chittenango, Morrisville, Earlville, and Brookfield.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between kidnapping and unlawful imprisonment in New York?
It depends on intent and movement. Kidnapping requires abduction with intent to restrain or secret the victim. Unlawless imprisonment is restraint without the abduction element. The specific facts determine the charge.
Can a kidnapping charge be reduced in Madison County?
Yes. An experienced abduction defense lawyer Madison County can negotiate with prosecutors. Factors like the victim’s condition, lack of prior record, or evidentiary issues may lead to a reduction to a lesser charge like unlawful imprisonment.
What are the defenses to a kidnapping charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to abduct or restrain, consent of the alleged victim, mistaken identity, or challenging the legality of the evidence obtained. Each defense is highly fact-specific and requires detailed investigation.
Is bail available for a kidnapping charge in New York?
New York’s bail reform laws eliminated cash bail for most non-violent felonies. However, kidnapping is typically considered a violent felony, so judges may set bail or remand a defendant. The outcome depends on the specific charge and the defendant’s history.
How long does a kidnapping case take in Madison County?
Felony cases in Supreme Court can take from several months to over a year. The timeline depends on case complexity, evidence, motions, and whether the case proceeds to trial. The speedy trial rule (CPL § 30.30) requires the prosecution to be ready within 6 months for a felony.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing criminal charges in Madison County, you may also need information on New York criminal defense. For charges in nearby areas, consider our pages for New York County (Manhattan) criminal defense or Nassau County criminal defense. For other legal needs in Madison County, see our family law and immigration law pages.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.