Auto theft is looked upon harshly in the eyes of Michigan law. Intentionally driving away in another person’s automobile without permission is a felony offense, and an individual can face up to 5 years in prison.
Whether you have been accused of merely stealing a vehicle or carjacking, you need an auto theft lawyer with the knowledge and skill to pursue reduced charges or a case dismissal. At Dallo Law, P.C., our attorneys are experienced in defending clients against auto theft charges in the state of Michigan. If you want a fighter to help you navigate through this difficult time, contact automobile theft attorney J. Dallo.
Auto Theft Attorney Bloomfield Hills, MI
If you’ve been charged with automobile theft, you may be able to avoid harsh penalties with an experienced Michigan car theft lawyer by your side. J. Dallo at Dallo Law, P.C. can provide legal counsel throughout the entire process and explore every legal route available. He will help you find the best possible strategy to fight the charges.
Dallo Law, P.C. represents individuals in Oakland County, Michigan. J. Dallo and his team also serve clients in Clinton Township, Romeo, Fraser, New Baltimore, New Haven, Warren, Sterling Heights, Pontiac, Troy, Waterford Township, Clarkston, Southfield, Royal Oak, and Bloomfield Hills. Schedule your first, initial consultation today by calling (248) 283-7000.
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Grand Theft Auto in Michigan
Per Michigan Penal Code 750.413, “grand theft auto”, also known as “auto theft,” is described as taking possession of a motor vehicle and driving away. The statute prohibits any individual from willfully taking away another person’s car. Someone who violates this statute can be guilty of a felony, which is punishable by up to five years of imprisonment.
When Michigan prosecutors cannot prove that the defendant acted with the intent to steal the motor vehicle, they may resort to Michigan Penal Code 750.414. The statute states it’s illegal for anyone to take an automobile or utilize it without the owner’s consent even if you had no intention to steal the vehicle. What differentiates this statute from Michigan Penal Code 750.413 is the lack of intent.
The act of robbing someone’s vehicle without their permission is categorized as a misdemeanor. If convicted, the defendant can face up to $1,500 in fines and up to 2 years in jail. However, in case of a first offense, the court may reduce the punishment to three months of imprisonment and/or up to a $500 fine.
Carjacking in Michigan
Carjacking refers to stealing an auto by use of force. To be more specific, Michigan law defines carjacking as “using force, violence, or the threat of force or violence while stealing a car, including during the theft or attempted theft, during the escape, or while someone is trying to recover the car.” Per Michigan Penal Code 750.529a, carjacking is a felony.
Carjacking is considered the harshest auto-theft related charge penalty-wise. Since it is categorized as a felony, the offense is punishable by life imprisonment or for any term of years determined by the court. If an individual has been charged with carjacking, it is best to seek the legal counsel of an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Additional Resources for Auto Theft in Michigan
Michigan Statute: Auto Theft Charge – Visit the official website of the Michigan legislature to view section 750.413. The webpage lists the basic auto theft charge and how the state of Michigan categorizes the offense as a felony.
Michigan Statute: Motor Vehicle Use Without Intent to Steal – Click the link to view Michigan Penal Code 750.414 which constitutes “the motor vehicle; use without authority but without intent to steal” offense. The webpage lists why Michigan law classifies the crime as a misdemeanor.
Michigan Statute: Carjacking – Click the link to view Michigan Penal Code 750.529a which constitutes the carjacking offense. The webpage lists why Michigan law classifies the crime as a felony.
Michigan Auto Theft Attorneys in Oakland County
If you’re facing charges for auto theft in Michigan, you don’t have to go through it alone. No matter the charge, criminal defense attorney J. Dallo can utilize his years of experience to obtain a favorable outcome on your behalf. He will work hard to get your charges reduced or dropped.
Dallo and the legal team at Dallo Law, P.C. serve clients throughout the greater Oakland County and Macomb County area including Pontiac, Troy, Waterford Township, Oakland Charter Township, Royal Oak, Clarkston, Rochester Hills, Auburn Hills, Birmingham, Utica, Romeo, Warren, Sterling Heights, Eastpointe, St. Clair Shores and New Baltimore.
If you would like to talk to Michigan theft attorney J. Dallo about your case, call (248) 283-7000 to schedule a free, initial consultation. He will craft an effective defense on your behalf.