Have you been Charged with False Imprisonment?
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What does it mean to be charged with false imprisonment?
False imprisonment is a common law offense recognised under Victorian law, primarily governed by the principles established through court decisions rather than specific statutes. Under section 320 of the Crimes Act 1958 (“CA”), false imprisonment is addressed, but it remains distinct from statutory offenses.
Definition of false imprisonment:
False imprisonment occurs when a person intentionally restricts another’s freedom of movement without lawful justification or consent. This can be achieved through:
- Physical force: Directly restraining the person.
- Threats or coercion: Creating fear or intimidation to prevent escape.
- Lack of reasonable means of escape: The victim must have no realistic opportunity to leave.
Common Examples:
False imprisonment can take many forms, including:
- Domestic Disputes: A husband locking his wife in a garage during an argument.
- Financial Coercion: A grandfather locking his grandchild in a car boot to demand money from their father.
- Blocking Exits: A person preventing another from leaving a room by locking doors or standing in front of exits.
Police Interviews:
If you are accused of false imprisonment, you may be summoned to a police station for an interview. This formal interview is recorded and crucial for evidence. During this process:
- You may be unaware of the evidence the police have against you, such as witness statements.
- You are entitled to seek legal advice before participating in the interview.
- MK Law offers confidential legal consultations to prepare you for this interview, covering your rights, what to expect, and how to respond to police questions.
Key Considerations Before Pleading:
Before deciding to plead guilty or not guilty, consider the following:
- Do they have compelling evidence?
- Did you intentionally restrain someone, and did they have a reasonable chance to escape?
- Were others involved in the alleged incident?
- Do you have a valid reason for your actions?
- Should we subpoena relevant materials from the opposing party?
What must the prosecution prove?
To establish a charge of false imprisonment, the prosecution must prove the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:
- You acted with the intention of depriving someone of their liberty.
- The person was restrained through physical means or intimidation, with no reasonable means of escape.
- Your actions must be without lawful excuse.
If the prosecution fails to establish any of these elements, you cannot be found guilty.
Where will my case be heard?
False imprisonment is typically treated as an indictable offense but can often be dealt with summarily in the Magistrates’ Court. Serious cases may escalate to the County Court or, in extreme circumstances, the Supreme Court of Victoria.
Factors and defences to consider:
Defending against a false imprisonment charge depends on the case specifics. Possible defences include:
- Did you hold the person against their will?
- Did the person have a reasonable opportunity to leave?
- Were your actions necessary for your protection?
- Did you act under compulsion or necessity.
- Do you have an alibi? Evidence proving you were elsewhere during the alleged offense.
- Is there evidence showing that you were not involved.
Penalties for false imprisonment:
If found guilty of false imprisonment, penalties can be severe and may include:
- Imprisonment: Up to 10 years for a level 5 offense (s 320 CA).
- Community Corrections Order: Either conviction or non-conviction based.
- Diversion: For first-time offenders or those with mental health considerations.
- Financial Fines: Either conviction or non-conviction.
- Youth Justice Centre Orders: For offenders under 18.
Sentencing Considerations:
When determining a penalty, the court evaluates several factors:
- Nature and Gravity of the Offense: The specifics of your actions.
- Criminal History: Prior offenses may affect sentencing.
- Planning and Methodology: How the offense was carried out.
- Injury to Victims: The extent of any physical or emotional harm caused.
- Location and Impact: The context of the offense and its effects on the victim.
Recent False Imprisonment Cases of MK Law:
Case 1: False Imprisonment and Threats to Kill
- Facts: The defendant threatened a victim during a drug-fuelled rage and locked them in a room for several hours. Our lawyers argued an alibi, ultimately leading to the withdrawal of all charges.
Case 2: Contesting False Imprisonment and Assault
- Facts: A defendant was accused of locking their daughter in a room and assaulting her. Our defence uncovered failures in police investigation, resulting in the defendant being found not guilty.
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What happens next?
If you face false imprisonment charges, it’s crucial to consult with legal experts who can analyse the details of your case. Our experienced lawyers at MK Law will help determine the merits of contesting the charges or pleading a defence.
For a thorough evaluation of your case, contact MK Law at 1800 130 120. We can guide you through the legal process and strive for the best possible outcome.
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- 1800 130 120
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