Southfield Auto Theft Attorney

If you drive away a vehicle that does not belong to you and you don’t have the owner’s permission, you could face criminal prosecution. While charges can be laid even in cases without intent to steal, anyone who takes a vehicle with no intention of returning it can face even more serious criminal penalties, including a lengthy jail sentence, hefty fines proportionate to the value of the vehicle, and other serious penalties. If you have been accused of auto theft, UDAA, carjacking, joyriding, or any other motor vehicle theft offense, contact the theft defense lawyers at Grabel & Associates now. Our Southfield criminal defense attorneys know what it takes to protect clients in auto theft cases, and are always prepared to begin fighting for new clients in both misdemeanor and felony cases. Contact our firm right now for a free initial case analysis and learn more about the next steps you can take if you have been investigated for auto theft, accused of stealing a motor vehicle, or charged with unlawfully driving away and automobile in Southfield.

With over 26,000 cases of motor vehicle theft in the most recent reported year, there are obviously going to be false accusations. While this number seems exceptionally large, auto theft is actually down significantly in Southfield and statewide over the past 15 years, in part due to the heavy penalties placed on offenders. It is crucial that you make sure you are not falsely accused or excessively sentenced in an auto theft case, especially with so much on the line if convicted. In addition to significant financial penalties, you could end up behind bars and receive a felony record. Let our team protect you as soon as you face allegations of stealing a car or other vehicle.

Under the qualified guidance of experienced trial lawyer Scott Grabel, our Southfield auto theft defense team will do everything in our power to get you the best available result. As evidenced by our past results and testimonials from our valued clients, our lawyers know what it takes to obtain outstanding outcomes for clients in auto theft and other theft and property crime cases statewide. Get in touch now and take action to protect against auto theft conviction, we are available 24/7 to speak with you or your loved one.

UDAA Charges in Southfield

There is no “grand theft auto” charge in Southfield, though there are a number of other serious criminal charges that apply to auto theft cases. The easiest for the prosecution to prove is UDAA, or Unlawfully Driving Away an Automobile, which is covered by Section 750.414 of the Michigan Penal Code. According to this section, anyone who takes or uses a motor vehicle without authority can face up to 2 years behind bars and a $1,500 fine. This section does not involve intent to steal, however. Anyone who steals a vehicle could face additional penalties under separate legislation, as outlined below.

Possessing or Concealing a Stolen Motor Vehicle in Southfield

If you buy, receive, possess, conceal, or aid in the concealment of a stolen motor vehicle, you could face up to 10 years behind bars and a fine of at least $15,000, or 3 times the value of the stolen vehicle, whichever is greater. If the vehicle is valued at less than $20,000, the below penalties could apply:

• Vehicle worth between $1,000 and $20,000: Up to 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine, or a fine of 3 times the value of the stolen vehicle.
• Vehicle worth under $1,000: Up to 1 year behind bars and a fine of $2,000 or three times the value of the stolen vehicle. This offense is a misdemeanor, as opposed to other offenses which are felonies. It is unlikely, however, that a vehicle will be appraised at less than $1,000 for purposes of this legislation.

Always protect yourself if accused of stealing a motor vehicle or unlawfully driving a motor vehicle away, even if you didn’t actually intend to steal it. Our lawyers can help you fight for a case dismissal, reduced charge, favorable deal, or other outstanding result.

Our Approach to Auto Theft Defense in Southfield

Our talented team will look over every detail of your unique situation, and craft a defense approach based on the specifics of your alleged auto theft offense. We will do everything we can to protect your rights through investigation, and stand up for your freedom if your case goes to trial. Our past clients will tell you that our lawyers make a difference in Southfield theft and property crime cases, and it is crucial that you work with only the best with so much at stake. Contact our 24/7 hotline now to learn more about our proven approach and aggressive defense strategies.

Contact Grabel & Associates for Southfield Auto Theft Defense 24/7

To speak with a qualified defense lawyer concerning your Southfield auto theft case, call 1-800-342-7896 or contact our firm online. We are always available to begin defending you or your loved one after allegations of theft or any other property offense charge.