Oakland County Grand Theft Auto Attorney

Are you facing a grand theft auto charge in Michigan?

There are strong and unforgiving penalties for auto theft in Michigan. This could be in part to the high statistic of vehicles stolen in the past; in 1886 there was more than 72,000 vehicles stolen in Michigan. That is in comparison the to 26,000 motor vehicle thefts in 2010; the amount has significantly dropped partly because of the harsh penalties. There are long jail sentences and hefty fines when facing a charge for stealing a vehicle. Grand theft auto is different than other types of theft. Auto theft is charged as a felony in most states but if the vehicle that was stolen is valuable then it can be a grand theft auto case. In order for a vehicle to be considered valuable, the state will use dollar value and there are differences between another person's family car and a junk car in a yard.

When a car is stolen, the person can be charged with grand theft as well as punitive damages and vehicle damages. The consequences are severe and it is important to note that there are numerous types of theft that are considered grand theft auto, such as:

• Hotwiring a parked car
• Borrowing a car with the keys without the consent of the owner
• Assaulting someone and taking their car
• Taking a car left running without the owner present
• Stealing a car buy buying it with problematic funds

The penalties for auto theft in Michigan vary based on the type of theft. When taking a vehicle and driving away with it, that is auto theft and is a felony charge that is punishable by up to 5 years in prison. There is a different charge for using someone's motor vehicle without the intention of stealing it and it constitutes as a misdemeanor instead of a felony and that is punishable by a jail sentence of 2 years and up to $1,500 in fines. Carjacking is also a different penalty that is considered a felony that comes with varying prison sentences and fines depending on the case. It is possible to have these fines and jail sentences reduced with the help of an experienced theft crime attorney from Long Law PLLC. We are familiar with cases like this and are dedicated to fighting for a favorable settlement for all of our clients.

Fight charges with an Oakland County criminal lawyer!

If you or a loved one are facing a grand theft auto charge in Michigan, our Oakland County criminal defense lawyer may be able to push for a reduced sentence and lowered fines. Whether you are being investigated, have been arrested, or have been convicted of an auto theft crime, we may be able to assist you in your case! Call our firm today to schedule a consultation.