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Article 163 of the Criminal Code

TÍTULO VI — Delitos contra la libertad

Full text

Text in force since 24 May 1996.

The text below is the official Spanish wording of this provision; the summary and guidance above are in English.

1. El particular que encerrare o detuviere a otro, privándole de su libertad, será castigado con la pena de prisión de cuatro a seis años. 2. Si el culpable diera libertad al encerrado o detenido dentro de los tres primeros días de su detención, sin haber logrado el objeto que se había propuesto, se impondrá la pena inferior en grado. 3. Se impondrá la pena de prisión de cinco a ocho años si el encierro o detención ha durado más de quince días. 4. El particular que, fuera de los casos permitidos por las leyes, aprehendiere a una persona para presentarla inmediatamente a la autoridad, será castigado con la pena de multa de tres a seis meses.

In-depth analysis

Article 163 of the Criminal Code: unlawful detention — penalties, case law and defence strategy

Our firm’s monographic guide to this provision, with typical scenarios and lines of defence.

Quick reference

Data by paragraph, checked against the text of this article: it combines paragraphs carrying imprisonment with paragraphs whose penalties start within the minor band (typically, a fine from three months) and which, under art. 13.4 CP, are minor offences. A connected, more serious offence and concurrence rules may alter the period in each specific case (art. 131.4 CP).

Highest prison term

8 years

Classification and limitation by paragraph (arts. 13, 33 & 131 CP)

  • 163.1 and 163.3: Serious offence · 10 years
  • 163.2: Less serious offence · 5 years
  • 163.4: Minor offence (art. 13.4 CP) · 1 year

Accused of an offence under article 163?

Our team regularly defends those accused under illegal detention & kidnapping. Technical strategy aimed at dismissal or acquittal when legally viable.

This page is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice: every case requires individual assessment. How this content is produced and verified: editorial policy.