Houston Auto Theft Attorney

When you are facing serious charges, it is important to have a law firm with the experience and record to get you the results you want. We have defended over 4,000 criminal cases in Houston and have over a decade of experience in defending auto theft. Whether it is getting the charges dropped or having the punishment minimized.

Car Theft Information

• Steps to Take After an Arrest for Auto Theft
• Defense for Auto Theft
• Free Consultation: Houston Auto Theft Lawyer

Our Houston auto theft lawyers will work hard to fight for your rights. Being charged with grand theft auto is a serious crime that comes with heavy consequences. Auto theft is classified as “grand theft” because of the value of the car. In general, the more valuable the property, the steeper the consequences. In Texas, there are a couple of different ways auto theft can be classified:

• Carjacking is defined as taking a car from the owner by force or threat of force. This is generally charged as a felony crime
• Joyriding is operating a vehicle without the owner’s consent. In contrast to traditional auto theft, a joyrider intends to return the vehicle.
• In other cases, a car may be taken without an owner’s permission and without intent of returning. If this is done without force or threat of force, it falls under Texas theft laws.
• Failing to return a rental car can be prosecuted under statutes involving theft in Texas.

Recently Arrested? Speak to a Houston Criminal Defense Lawyer Today!

When You Are Charged With Auto Theft in Houston

Motor vehicle theft sentences vary greatly. Most motor vehicle thefts and joyriding are classified as state felonies. If convicted, you could serve from 180 days to 10 years in jail, as well as pay fines up to $10,000. So, it is important to take some basic steps when facing charges:

• Remember your right to remain silent. This is one of your most important rights, and it is one you should exercise. Never sign any documentation in police custody without the presence of legal representation. Too often, defendants are coerced into signing confessions or other sworn statements. When you are arrested, do not answer questions before consulting a lawyer. Always be compliant; however, it is in your best interest to politely ask for legal representation.
• You should enlist the help of a competent legal team as soon as possible. The sooner you retain legal services, the sooner we can begin building your case for a jury.

Defenses for Auto Theft in Texas

The first step in any criminal case is getting your side of the story. Once your legal team has a description of your version of events, it can go to work defending your case. Though the narrative of your defense will vary depending on the circumstances surrounding the incident, there are a few common ways to successfully defend auto theft:

• In the case of joyriding, a defendant can claim he or she had, or believed he or she had, the owner’s consent. If a lawyer can convince a jury that the defendant had permission to use the vehicle, there is no crime.
• In the case of auto theft, a defendant can claim he or she never intended to specifically deprive the plaintiff ownership of the vehicle. In this case, the defendant would not be committing auto theft, but joyriding.

In criminal cases, prosecutors bear the burden of proof. Therefore, it is up to them to prove to the jury beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the theft. We can establish doubt by looking at gaps in the evidence or identifying inconsistencies in eyewitness testimony.

Having an Experienced Houston Auto Theft Lawyer at Your Side

We understand how confusing the legal system can be, so we keep you informed at every step of the process. This allows you to make the best decisions regarding your case. If you have questions, or if you would like to schedule a free initial consultation, we invite you to contact us. To learn more about David Breston, click here.

Client Review: 5/5 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

David Breston is not only a very skilled, detailed, and talented attorney, but also a trusted and caring friend. He first represented me in a case that potentially could have changed my life for the worse. Not only did he help me win the case but earned my respect and loyalty to this day. Also still to this day (13 years later) I depend on his help, experience and expertise. I highly recommend his firm for all legal needs.

-Willie Riviera

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