If you’ve been accused of grand theft auto in Fort Worth, TX, you may be facing serious criminal charges with long-term consequences. Texas law treats vehicle theft offenses seriously, and many of these cases are prosecuted as felonies. Understanding the charges and the legal process is important if you are under investigation or have already been arrested.
Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers can help you better understand your rights and the options available in your case. We may also help ensure that evidence, police procedures, and the allegations themselves are carefully reviewed.
If you are facing allegations involving vehicle theft, speaking with a Fort Worth grand theft auto attorney can help you better understand the legal process and the options available in your situation. Reach out to us at (682) 777-3336 today to get started.
Why Hire Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers If You’re Arrested for Grand Theft Auto in Fort Worth, TX?
When you’re facing grand theft auto charges in Fort Worth, Texas, the stakes are incredibly high, and you need to make sure you have the right lawyer by your side. Defendants across Fort Worth trust Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers to defend their rights and build a strong case against charges for theft crimes.
Here’s what sets our Fort Worth criminal defense attorneys apart:
- Significant Experience: Our attorneys have 60 years of combined experience
- Board Certification: Attorneys on our team who are Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization
- Hundreds of People Defended: Our team has represented hundreds of defendants facing felony criminal cases in Texas courts.
Having a skilled legal defense when you’re facing charges may drastically reduce your risk of significant prison time and harsh fines. Call us today to speak with a Fort Worth theft crimes attorney.
Overview of Grand Theft Auto in Texas
Texas law does not specifically use the phrase “grand theft auto.” Instead, vehicle theft offenses are generally prosecuted under theft laws found in Texas Penal Code §31.03.
In these cases, prosecutors typically attempt to prove:
- The accused knowingly took or controlled a vehicle belonging to someone else
- The accused intended to deprive the owner of the vehicle
Intent is often one of the most important issues in theft-related cases. Prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused intended to unlawfully keep or withhold the vehicle from the owner. Our Fort Worth criminal defense lawyers can assist in building a defense that addresses this crucial element, focusing on demonstrating a lack of intent to permanently deprive the owner.
What Are the Penalties for Grand Theft Auto in Fort Worth, Texas?
In Texas, the severity of a vehicle theft charge usually depends on the value of the vehicle involved. Many grand theft auto allegations are charged as felony offenses.
Classifications may include:
- State jail felony charges for vehicles valued between $2,500 and $30,000
- Third-degree felony charges for vehicles valued between $30,000 and $150,000
Potential penalties may include:
- Prison or state jail sentences
- Criminal fines
- Probation or community supervision
A felony conviction may also affect employment opportunities, housing applications, and professional licensing.
Third-Degree Felony Grand Theft Auto in Texas
Third-degree felony charges may carry penalties ranging from 2 to 10 years in prison, along with possible fines of up to $10,000.
State Jail Felony Grand Theft Auto
State jail felony charges may result in confinement ranging from 180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility, in addition to possible fines.
No matter what specific level of felony you’re facing, the potential punishments are serious. Our Fort Worth grand theft auto lawyers can help you understand your charges and the penalties you may face.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested for Grand Theft Auto?
When you’re facing accusations that you stole a vehicle, you need to take the case seriously and build a strong legal defense. There are defenses that you may be able to use.
Common defenses include:
- Lack of Intent: For the state to convict you, they must prove you intended to permanently deprive the owner of the car. If you honestly believed you had permission or planned to return the car, your attorney can argue lack of criminal intent.
- Owner Permission: If you took or used the vehicle with the actual owner’s direct or implied consent, that negates the accusation of theft. Clear communication or a history of loaning the car can show that you aren’t guilty.
- Police Misconduct or Constitutional Violations: If law enforcement violated your rights through improper search, seizure, or arrest, your defense lawyer might be able to have certain evidence thrown out through a motion to suppress. This could lead to a dismissal in some cases, or could make it much harder to convict you if the case goes to trial.
- Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove all elements of their case beyond a reasonable doubt. If there are inconsistencies in the state’s version of events, your lawyer can simply poke holes in their case and argue reasonable doubt.
The exact defense you use will depend on the specifics of your case; our Fort Worth theft crimes lawyers can review the situation thoroughly and help you decide if any potential defenses work for your case.
Schedule a Confidential Case Evaluation With Our Fort Worth Grand Theft Auto Attorneys Today
Choosing the right legal support is one of the most important decisions you will make after you’ve been arrested. Grand theft auto allegations can carry serious legal and personal consequences. Responding to these accusations often requires careful review of the evidence and a clear understanding of Texas theft laws.
At Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers, our lawyers bring 60 years of combined experience to cases throughout Tarrant County. Do not face these accusations alone; Reach out to us today to schedule an initial case consultation with a Fort Worth grand theft auto lawyer.
