Grand Theft Auto Defense Attorney in Redwood City
Defending You Against Car Theft Charges in California
Cars are often the most valuable things a person owns. They are also easy to move and resell. That’s why California laws against car theft (grand theft auto or GTA) are so strict. If you’ve been charged with grand theft auto in Redwood City, you can defend yourself by working with the Law Offices of M. Gabriela Guraiib.
In California, a conviction for stealing a car carries heavy penalties. At the Law Offices of M. Gabriela Guraiib, our theft crime attorney will fight for the best possible outcome in your GTA trial. We will help you protect your rights and collect evidence demonstrating your innocence. We will also work with the prosecution to reduce charges or even have the case dismissed if possible.
Don’t wait for help if you’ve been charged with grand theft auto in Redwood City. Contact our Bay Area office today to get help with your case.
What California Law Defines as Grand Theft Auto
Prosecutors can pursue one of two charges against people accused of stealing a car:
- Unlawful taking or driving of a vehicle: Otherwise known as “joyriding,” this is the act of taking a car without someone’s consent, often for a short period or with intent to return. Depending on the circumstances, it can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony.
- Grand theft auto: This is a subset of the broader crime of “grand theft,” or the theft of property worth more than $950. It’s the act of taking a car with the intent to keep it or sell it. It is often a felony charge but can also be charged as a misdemeanor in certain conditions.
There is a significant overlap between these two charges. The crime with which someone is charged is often up to the prosecutor’s discretion. Typically, joyriding charges are more common if the car is recovered or was of low value, while grand theft charges are more common with high-value or unrecovered cars.
Since GTA is usually a felony, the penalties can be quite high. It can include up to three years in jail and a fine of up to $5000. If a person has been convicted of stealing a car previously, the sentence cap increases to four years in jail.
Furthermore, there are additional penalties for stealing exceptionally valuable cars. The sentence can be extended a year if a vehicle is worth more than $65,000. It might be extended for two years if the vehicle was worth $200,000 or more.
Fight Back Against Grand Theft Auto Charges with Experienced Legal Representation
Being charged with stealing a car is a serious matter. You could face years in prison and heavy fines if you’re convicted. It’s critical for you to reach out to an experienced theft attorney in Redwood City when you find out you are being charged or investigated for grand theft auto. Our Redwood City law firm will fight for your rights and help you develop an effective defense strategy to protect you from these charges.
