Fredericksburg Auto Theft Lawyer

Auto theft is a serious offense and the prosecution treats it as such. If you have been accused of auto theft, contact an attorney immediately. While the prosecution may be working hard to build a case against you, a  lawyer could work even harder to defend your case. A qualified theft attorney will examine the allegations, the evidence, the testimonies, and investigate whether there are weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. If you would like to learn more about your legal options, contact an adept Fredericksburg auto theft lawyer today.

Is Auto Theft a Felony or a Misdemeanor?

The factor that determines whether auto theft is a felony or a misdemeanor is the value of the vehicle that is taken. If a vehicle is worth more than $200, it is a felony, if it is worth less than $200, it is a misdemeanor. In order to convict an individual for the unauthorized use of a vehicle, a prosecutor will have to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the individual used a vehicle belonging to someone else without their consent and with the intent of depriving that person of possessing it.

Auto Theft Penalties

The consequences of automobile theft will depend upon the charges filed. The unauthorized use of a vehicle can carry a penalty of up to one year in prison for a misdemeanor, up to five years in prison if it is a felony.  However, in more serious cases, automobile theft is charged as grand larceny. Grand larceny is punishable by up to 20 years in prison.

If a person has already been charged or convicted of auto theft in the past, the court will be less willing to give them the benefit of the doubt. Individuals who have been involved in auto theft the past are generally looked at as repeat offenders, who are unable to follow the law. Individuals who have questions or concerns about penalties should speak to a Fredericksburg auto theft lawyer.

Alternative Sentencing

The ability for an individual to be granted alternative sentencing is entirely up to the judge in a case. However, a Fredericksburg auto theft lawyer could work with a defendant to increase their chances of being granted alternative sentencing. Individuals facing auto theft charges in Circuit Court could have a variety of probation options available to them depending on the county in which they’re charged. There are also statewide programs in which individuals can participate in instead of having to go to jail.

Contacting an Auto Theft Lawyer in Fredericksburg

In order to defend a case, a Fredericksburg auto theft lawyer would need to gather all the facts. This would include collecting evidence, examining the alleged victim’s testimony, listening to the defendant’s testimony, and probing into the elements of the allegation. A qualified lawyer may also want to know if a defendant has a past criminal history. Such factors would enable an attorney to determine an appropriate defense strategy. If you have been involved in an auto theft case, contact an attorney who could work tirelessly to defend your freedom.