Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Is this illegal?

Is it illegal for a parent to lock their child in their room if the child is over the age of 18?

My friend's parents locked her up in her room and literally slept outside her bedroom door when I came to visit her in CA. Her parents didn't want her to see me.

I would like to know in case this would happen again if I should contact police.


Asked on 11/21/07, 9:15 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Brent Rose The Orsini & Rose Law Firm

Re: Is this illegal?

In Florida, the crime would be "false imprisonment," which is similar to kidnapping. I don't know what the law is in California, but I would definitely call the police if it happens again.

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Answered on 11/21/07, 1:27 pm
Jacek W. Lentz Law Offices of Jacek W. Lentz

Re: Is this illegal?

Quite likely illegal (false imprisonment) but you should think at least five times before calling the police. Once police is involved it is out of your hands and you or the person held is no longer in control of the process. You might get the parents in more trouble than you want and create damage to them and to your relationship with them which you will never be able to undo. A bit of a different story if physical harm or threat of harm is involved, of course.

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Answered on 11/21/07, 2:17 pm


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