The Skilled Defense You Need Against Unlawful Restraint Charges In Connecticut

Unlawful restraint is a serious crime that involves restricting someone’s freedom. Connecticut has strict laws covering various scenarios, including but not limited to domestic (family) violence and kidnapping. This can include violent and nonviolent situations such as choking, handcuffing, zip-tying, barricading, locking or blocking someone.

It is important to challenge the “intent” in unlawful restraint matters. This is particularly applicable in cases of self-defense where our clients had to restrict someone’s freedom of movement to safeguard themselves, their friends or family members from an assailant. It is justifiable to restrain someone who has attempted to cause harm. However, law enforcement sometimes arrests everyone at the scene, leaving the matter to be resolved by the court system.

If you’ve been charged with unlawful restraint and any related offenses, contact The Maddox Law Firm, LLC Our experienced criminal defense lawyers fiercely combat any unlawful restraint charges, starting with a comprehensive analysis of all evidence and witness statements. We leave no stone unturned to protect your rights and your freedom.

Misdemeanor Charges Of Unlawful Restraint In The Second Degree

Unlawful restraint in the second degree is a serious offense in Connecticut. It entails restricting someone else’s movement and curtailing their freedom. This violent crime requires specific intent, meaning that you must have deliberately intended to interfere with the individual’s liberty while restraining them, just like other violent crimes in Connecticut.

Unlawful restraint can occur by simply confining someone in their current location, regardless of distance. Physically carrying or body-slamming someone also falls under this category. Movement is not necessary for unlawful restraint in the second degree. If someone is restricted from leaving a place, it is considered unlawful restraint.

Second-degree unlawful restraint is often charged as a Class A misdemeanor resulting in up to one year in jail, up to $2,000 in fines and probation.

Felony Charges Of Unlawful Restraint In The First Degree

Unlawful restraint in the first degree is deemed the more serious offense and is classified as a felony in the state of Connecticut. However, the only discernible difference between this felony charge and its misdemeanor equivalent is the presence of an additional element. This element requires that the restraint presents a risk of physical harm to the person being restrained. Physical harm itself is not a requirement for this charge to apply – only the threat or risk of it.

If found guilty of unlawful restraint in the first degree, you will face a Class D felony charge, which means up to five years in prison, a $5,000 fine and probation.

Don’t Delay In Taking Action – Let Our Attorneys Safeguard Your Freedom

The Maddox Law Firm has office locations in New Canaan, Bridgeport, Norwalk and Stamford, and we serve clients throughout the surrounding areas of Connecticut. To discuss your charges in an initial consultation with one of our attorneys, contact us online or call (203) 822-6610. Hablamos español. Nous parlons français.