If you or someone you care about has been accused of carjacking in Fort Worth, TX, the situation can be overwhelming and frightening. Carjacking charges are taken very seriously in Texas, carrying steep prison terms and lasting effects on a defendant’s life if convicted.
With the knowledgeable team from Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers by your side, you can fight the charges. Our attorneys understand the complexities of carjacking cases and are dedicated to building a strong defense strategy tailored to your unique circumstances. We can meticulously examine the evidence, challenge any illegal searches or seizures, and explore all available legal options to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome.
Call us today at (682) 777-3336 to schedule a consultation with a Fort Worth carjacking lawyer.
Why Hire Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers If You’re Arrested for Carjacking in Fort Worth, TX?
If you’re facing serious charges in Fort Worth, TX, like carjacking, defending yourself alone or with an inexperienced lawyer puts your freedom at real risk. Choosing Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers sets you up with an experienced, respected team fully dedicated to protecting your rights through every step of your case.
Here’s what sets our firm apart:
- Our attorneys have 60 years of combined experience
- Pam Boggess and Cody Cofer are both Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization
- We’ve defended hundreds of clients in Fort Worth and the surrounding areas
- Over 100 positive Google reviews from people who trusted us with their futures
When you hire us, you’ll never be left guessing about your case or your criminal defense. Call us today to schedule a case evaluation with a Fort Worth criminal defense lawyer.
Overview of Carjacking in Texas
Carjacking means taking someone else’s vehicle by using threats, physical force, or violence. Unlike regular auto theft, carjacking is treated much more seriously in Texas and is usually charged as robbery, not just theft. To get a robbery conviction for carjacking, the prosecution has to prove that the person did more than just steal the car.
They must show that the accused either caused someone bodily injury or threatened that person with immediate harm or death while committing the theft. This added element of fear or violence is why carjacking brings much harsher penalties under Texas law.
What Are the Penalties for a Carjacking Conviction in Fort Worth, Texas?
Carjacking cases are most often charged as robbery offenses in Texas. Regular robbery is a second-degree felony. If convicted, you could face a prison sentence of 2 to 20 years and fines of up to $10,000. In some cases, the penalties can be more severe.
Aggravated Robbery – Enhanced Penalties
If a gun or other deadly weapon was used or someone suffered serious bodily injury during the carjacking, the crime gets upgraded to aggravated robbery. This is considered a first-degree felony and comes with even harsher penalties. You could face anywhere from 5 years to life in prison, which could mean up to 99 years behind bars.
Because of how harsh the consequences are, it’s essential to have strong legal help from a Fort Worth carjacking attorney as soon as possible if you’re charged in Texas.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested for Carjacking?
If you’re arrested for carjacking, it’s natural to feel powerless, but several defenses could help you fight the charges. Strong legal representation is crucial for evaluating which arguments fit the facts of your situation.
Insufficient Evidence
The prosecution may not have enough proof to show that you committed the carjacking. This might involve weak witness statements, no video or fingerprint evidence, or proving you were somewhere else (an alibi).
Constitutional Violations
If police conducted an illegal search, arrested you without proper cause, or didn’t give you your Miranda rights, your attorney might be able to ask the court to exclude certain evidence that was collected unlawfully. This can lead to the dismissal of your case or could make it easier to obtain an acquittal.
Mistaken Identity
Sometimes, victims or witnesses mistake one person for another, especially in high-stress situations. Challenging errors and misidentifications could undermine the case against you.
Permission or Consent
If you can show that you had permission to use or take the car, you may be able to avoid a conviction.
No Threats or Injury
Carjacking involves fear, force, or violence. If there was no threat of harm or bodily injury, you might have a defense to plead guilty to lesser charges.
Every carjacking case is different, so a detailed legal review is essential. Working with the right Fort Worth criminal defense attorney can give you the chance to question the evidence and defend your rights inside and outside of the courtroom.
Schedule a Case Evaluation With Our Fort Worth Carjacking Attorneys Today
Facing carjacking charges in Fort Worth can lead to uncertainty and stress, but a skilled defense attorney will stand up for your rights from the start. Having the right lawyer can mean the difference between facing maximum penalties and finding ways to challenge the evidence against you or reduce the consequences.
There may be important details in your case that could change the outcome; don’t wait to protect yourself. Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers is available to provide personalized, aggressive legal advice. Call us today to schedule a consultation with a Fort Worth carjacking lawyer.
