What Kind of Lawyer Is Needed For Car Theft Charges?

Facing auto theft charges can feel overwhelming. Questions about what’s next, how the process works, and whether you need a lawyer can pile up fast.
However, the answers to these questions won’t reveal themselves until the most important thing on the accused’s mind is answered first —what kind of lawyer is needed for car theft?
The Farris Law Firm is here to clarify what type of lawyer you’ll want to consider, the charges you could face, the penalties involved, and how our theft defense attorney can help mitigate the risks of these serious allegations.
What Are Car Theft Charges?
Auto theft is taking a vehicle without permission. The intent may be to keep it permanently or use it temporarily.
You could face multiple types of theft charges depending on the state where the car was stolen. In California, for example, charges can include the following:
- Grand Theft Auto: This felony charge is brought when the vehicle is worth $950+.
- Carjacking: You may receive this charge when using force or fear to take a car directly from someone else.
- Joyriding: If you borrow or “temporarily” take a vehicle without permission or with no intention of keeping it, a lawyer for car theft may be able to help you fight this offense.
While these are three of the most common charges, the details surrounding the crime can affect how things move forward. Did violence occur in the act? What is the car’s value? Does the accused have prior convictions?
Hiring a lawyer for auto theft can help you answer these and other important questions that could help provide a favorable resolution to the outcome of your case.
Who Handles Auto Theft Defense?
When facing vehicle theft charges, you want someone who focuses on defending against criminal allegations. The right person for the job may be a criminal defense lawyer with years of experience handling these cases.
Knowing how to pick the right one matters. A few good questions to ask during your search include:
- Do you have experience with this type of case?
- What are the next steps if I hire your firm?
- How do you evaluate the evidence for auto theft charges?
The answers to these questions can help you determine whether the lawyer you want to hire prioritizes clear communication, offers comprehensive legal support, and understands how to combat the charges you are facing.
Degrees of Car Theft and Potential Penalties
These charges aren’t all handled the same way. The penalties you may face might vary depending on whether you are an adult or a minor. This highlights the importance of choosing the right type of lawyer who understands how to navigate cases based on age, jurisdiction, and the severity of the charges.
Car Theft Penalties for Adults
Here’s where the penalties of auto theft charges could lead for adults in California:
- Grand Theft Auto: This charge can lead to a state prison term of up to 3 years. Felony charges often include added fines.
- Carjacking: Because force or fear is involved, this comes with harsher penalties. A conviction could result in up to 9 years of imprisonment.
- Joyriding: Without evidence of theft intent, penalties are lighter. This could lead to fines or up to a year in jail.
Repeated offenses or crimes involving violence can lead to even higher penalties.
Car Theft Penalties for Minors
Juvenile courts usually handle cases for minors accused of vehicle theft. Penalties often aim to correct behavior rather than harshly punish. Possible outcomes include:
- Court-ordered restitution for damages or stolen property.
- Probation with counseling requirements.
- Time in a youth detention facility if the offense is serious.
The specifics depend on the case details, the minor’s record, and whether harm or death is a factor.
How Hiring a Lawyer Can Help Your Case
Facing auto theft charges can come with uncertainties. A defense lawyer can help unpack the situation, give insight into the options, and work to manage the risks.
The many ways a lawyer can help you fight auto theft charges include but are not limited to:
- Evaluating Evidence: They review police reports, security footage, and testimony to uncover weak spots in the prosecutor’s case.
- Questioning Intent: Some cases involve misunderstandings. If the intent to steal isn’t clear, joyriding or lesser charges could apply.
- Challenging Rights Violations: If police violated procedures during your arrest or investigation, some evidence might get thrown out.
Every case unfolds based on its own factors. Lawyers work to explore potential outcomes and protect your legal interests, step by step.
Getting a lawyer involved early can help identify which parts of the case might present opportunities for a better result. They also handle the court process, so you don’t have to face it alone.
What Happens Once Charges Are Filed?
The legal system might feel confusing or intimidating after being charged with car theft. Here’s a typical breakdown of how things proceed:
- Arrest: The police take you into custody, and a report is filed. This marks the first step in the case.
- Arraignment: You’ll hear the charges against you and be asked to enter a plea. This might also be the first time you and your lawyer meet in court.
- Pre-Trial Work: Both sides gather evidence. Your lawyer might suggest a plea deal or challenge the prosecutor’s case.
- Trial or Outcome: The case could reach a resolution without going to trial. If not, then the trial determines the result.
Each stage allows your criminal defense lawyer to assess and respond to charges. From motions to dismiss certain evidence to negotiating agreements, they aim to focus on building your case.
Find the Right Legal Guidance When Facing Car Theft Charges
It is natural to feel overwhelmed when facing vehicle theft charges. Criminal defense lawyers can help unpack the complexities and explain each phase. It is always worth scheduling a consultation to learn how your case may benefit from their assistance.
Don’t feel like your case is beyond hope until you understand your situation with the help of comprehensive and compassionate legal support. If you’re ready to learn your options, contact a lawyer for car theft online today.