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Facing charges of motor vehicle theft or carjacking in San Diego? These are serious offenses that could potentially lead to years in prison. At David P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys, our motor vehicle theft lawyers have defended numerous clients against allegations like grand theft auto, joyriding, and armed carjacking.
We investigate each case to identify weaknesses in the evidence and assert all available defenses. From claims of rightful ownership to flaws in witness accounts, we explore every strategy to protect your rights and future. Our courtroom-tested attorneys will work to obtain a favorable resolution to your charges. Do not go it alone – contact us immediately.
California Penal Code § 487(d)(1) defines motor vehicle theft as the unlawful taking of another person’s vehicle with the intent to deprive them of it permanently.
To convict you of this crime, prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you:
The penalties for motor vehicle theft are severe and depend on the circumstances of your case and your criminal history.
This crime is a wobbler offense, meaning the state can charge grand theft auto as a misdemeanor or felony.
Potential sentences range from probation to several years in prison, fines, and restitution to the vehicle owner.
It’s important to note that motor vehicle theft differs from joyriding or carjacking charges in California, although the charges may seem related.
In addition to grand theft auto, you may face other theft-related charges, such as:
These related offenses can impact your motor vehicle theft case and provoke additional penalties or complications in your case.
Our knowledgeable motor theft attorneys will analyze all the facts in your situation and develop a comprehensive strategy to address any related charges mentioned above.
David P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys knows that every theft case is different, so we tailor our strategies around the specific facts of your case.
Some common defenses our vehicle theft defense lawyers may explore include:
We thoroughly investigate your case, gather evidence, and challenge any weaknesses in the prosecution’s alleged facts or arguments.
Our criminal defense law firm also negotiates with prosecutors for charge reductions or alternative sentencing options, such as plea bargains, when appropriate.
If necessary, we’ll defend you at trial and hold the prosecution to its high burden of proof, that is, beyond a reasonable doubt
Beyond the criminal penalties, a motor vehicle theft conviction can impact your life beyond the courtroom.
Some potential collateral consequences include:
Our San Diego law firm knows how the long-term impact of a conviction will hurt you, and we’ll work to minimize or entirely eliminate these collateral consequences to help you move on with your life.
In cases where a conviction is sustained, you may sometimes seek post-conviction relief, such as expungement, when applicable.
Our skilled San Diego grand theft auto lawyers can provide invaluable assistance throughout your case by:
We have outstanding results in handling theft cases and are committed to providing you with personalized attention and advocacy.
If arrested for any motor vehicle theft crime in San Diego, from joyriding to grand theft auto, you need our skilled legal team on your side. At David P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys, here’s why we should be your first call:
Don’t risk your future with these serious charges. Contact us for a free case evaluation from our top-rated San Diego motor vehicle theft lawyers.
Time is of the essence after the police arrest you for motor vehicle theft. The sooner you contact us, the faster we can get ahead of the prosecution’s case against you.
Schedule a confidential consultation with our team today to learn more about your legal options and how we can assist with your motor vehicle theft case. Together, we’ll work to protect your freedom and your future.
If you or someone you love is facing criminal charges in California, swift action is imperative. The penalties can be life altering and long lasting. Give us a call today to set up a case evaluation with one of our attorneys and learn how to best protect your freedom and future. Too often, we see clients who “wait and see,” unsure of the legal landscape ahead, only for charges to escalate. They then find themselves backpedaling into a bad defense and an even worse lawyer. Don’t let that happen to you. Protect your freedom. Protect your future. Know your rights.
The contents of this article are meant for informational and marketing purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Viewing and/or use of the blog does not form an attorney-client relationship. No statements in this post are a guarantee, warranty, or prediction of a particular result in your case.
Here’s what you need to know to regain control of your future
“I came to David Shapiro to end my probation early and expunge my case. I had a very positive and very informative experience with him. David and his assistant Maria were excellent and always kept in the loop of what was going on.”
“Helping good people get their lives back is not just a catch phrase. They mean what they say and are serious about taking care of the client. Ally Keegan and the team at Law Office of David Shapiro are AMAZING! My charges for a 25 plus year old case were dismissed, it was not easy but I truly believe that if I had went with any other Law Firm that the outcome would have been very different. Thank you Ally for helping me get my life back!”
“I called many lawyers after I got my DUI. Stefano was the only lawyer who put my mind at ease and gave me a sense of relief. He constantly communicated with me about my case and laid out all my options. He was willing and able to do whatever he could to help me. He went above and beyond what was expected.”
“I have used David 2 times in the past and he has by far exceeded my expectations. He has great knowledge and knows the system. He is straight forward and honest and somebody you can trust without doubt. I would recommend him to friends, family, and anybody that needs help. Best attorney I’ve ever come across.”
“Stefano Molea was extremely professional and consistently timely with responses to my questions. Most of all, Stefano was reliable. Stefano was diligent with discovery and always prepared and tenacious when relevant to the situation. Stefano is an attorney that you can count on for the best outcome. Thank you Stefano for all you did in my case. You’re so awesome!!!!”
“Ally was an absolute pleasure to work with. Her calm and reassuring demeanor was matched with her excellent knowledge, dedication, thoroughness. We unfortunately found ourselves in need of a criminal lawyer and we can without a doubt say that having Ally and her firm represent us from the beginning was the best choice we could have made.”
