No, we’re not talking about the video game, but if you’ve ever played the game or seen someone play the game then you probably have an idea of what “Grand Theft Auto” means in the Arizona judicial system.
In legal settings grand theft auto is the theft of a vehicle with the intent to keep said vehicle permanently. It’s a serious crime that can severely impact the rest of your life. If you are charged with grand theft auto, you need to consult an experienced Mesa property crimes attorney (LINK: http://www.naeglelawfirm.com/Criminal-Defense/Property-Crimes.aspx ) to learn more about your rights and possible penalties you may be facing.
Is Grand Theft Auto the Same as Carjacking?
Grand theft auto and carjacking are similar in that they both involve stealing a car but the two crimes differ in terms of how the vehicle was stolen. Grand theft auto occurs without any violence and the owner of the car typically isn’t present. Carjacking, on the other hand, is a violent offense that involves the forceful taking of the vehicle from the other person.
Grand Theft Auto Punishments
In Arizona, a conviction of any motor vehicle crime is considered a felony and becomes part of your permanent record. In order to convict a person of a crime involving a motor vehicle, the prosecutor will need to show that the defendant took or drove a vehicle that belonged to someone else with the intent to permanently keep the car. How the car was taken doesn’t always apply as this can happen in various ways - the owner left the keys in the car, the car was left open and the person hot-wired it, or they broke into the car and then hot-wired it.
Consult With a Mesa Property Crimes Attorney
When you have been charged with a property crime in Arizona, you need dedicated, personalized and committed representation from an experienced Mesa property crimes attorney who will advocate for your rights in and out of the courtroom.
Mesa property crimes attorney Charlie Naegle has extensive trial experience and was recently named Top 40 Trial Lawyers Under 40. Put his experience to work for you and your future.
Call Naegle & Crider Criminal Defense Attorneys at 480-378-9000 to request a free consultation today.