Oakland, CA asked in Family Law and Criminal Law for California

Q: Run Away

Hey so my brother who is 17 ran away and the man who he left with is over 18 and won't tell us where he took him. Can I press charges against him for kidnapping since my brother is under 18? Please let me know we just want him home and they guy won't tell us what happened to him.

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2 Lawyer Answers
Susan G. Cohen
Susan G. Cohen
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: If you believe that this person has taken your brother without permission from the parent or guardian, the parent or guardian who is the legal custodian of your brother should contact your local police department about filing a missing persons report and for assistance in locating the man who now has your brother with him. You should act quickly, because your brother may not be safe while he is with the older man who has taken him away. If your brother is under eighteen, in most circumstances he does not get to decide who is legal custodian or legal guardian should be. Act promptly. Best wishes to you and for your brother's safety.

Ali Shahrestani,
Ali Shahrestani,
Answered
  • New York, NY
  • Licensed in California

A: You can report this to the police. More details are necessary to provide a professional analysis of your issue. The best first step is an Initial Consultation with an Attorney such as myself. You can read more about me, my credentials, awards, honors, testimonials, and media appearances/ publications on my law practice website, www.AEesq.com. I practice law in CA, NY, MA, and DC in the following areas of law: Business & Contracts, Criminal Defense, Divorce & Child Custody, and Education Law. This answer does not constitute legal advice; make any predictions, guarantees, or warranties; or create any Attorney-Client relationship.

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