Auto Theft Attorney in The Woodlands, Texas
Auto theft is a serious criminal offense in Texas, prosecuted aggressively by law enforcement and district attorneys throughout the state, including the Woodlands and Houston. A conviction for vehicle theft can lead to extensive prison time and large fines.
Unfortunately, teenagers are often recruited to steal cars for gangs. Families also come to us after a teen’s impulsive decision to take a car for a “joyride” without asking leads to criminal charges. If a young person you love is charged with car theft, a juvenile criminal attorney can protect their rights and future.
Our team at the Cowboy Law Group aggressively defends adults and juveniles across Texas. Contact an auto theft attorney today for a free consultation.
Auto Theft Laws in Texas
Auto theft in Texas includes a range of offenses, from joyriding to carjacking. These charges can range from misdemeanors to first-degree felonies.
Our theft defense lawyers in The Woodlands understand the ins and outs of Texas law and vigorously protect our clients’ rights.
Vehicle Theft
Vehicle theft is unlawfully taking a car with the intent to deprive the owner of the vehicle. Car theft falls under the general theft law in Texas, which bases penalties on the value of the stolen property. Other factors can lead to enhanced penalties.
Joyriding (Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle)
Under Texas Penal Code Section 31.07, it is a crime to intentionally or knowingly operate another person’s vehicle without their consent, even if you plan to return it. This is commonly referred to as “joyriding” and is treated as a felony in Texas.
Carjacking
Carjacking means taking a vehicle directly from its owner or driver by using force, threats, or violence. Texas does not have a separate law for carjacking; instead, it is prosecuted under Texas robbery laws.
Most carjacking cases are charged as a second-degree felony. This applies when someone uses or threatens force to take a car from its owner or driver. The penalties include:
- 2 to 20 years in state prison
- A fine of up to $10,000
If the accused uses or shows a deadly weapon (like a gun or knife), causes serious bodily injury, or the victim is elderly or disabled, the charge is elevated to aggravated robbery—a first-degree felony. The penalties are much more severe:
- 5 to 99 years or life in prison
- A fine of up to $10,000
Receiving or Accepting a Stolen Vehicle
It is illegal to knowingly accept, purchase, or possess a stolen vehicle. Even if you didn’t steal the car yourself, you can be charged if you knew the car was stolen when you received it.
Vehicle Burglary
Breaking into a vehicle to steal items from inside is classified as burglary of a vehicle. While this is a separate offense from auto theft, it is still a serious crime in Texas and can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony depending on prior convictions.
VIN Tampering
Altering or removing a vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a crime in Texas, often associated with efforts to disguise stolen vehicles. This is typically charged as a Class A misdemeanor. You can be sentenced to a year in jail, fined up to $4,000, or both.
Failure to Return a Rental Car
If someone rents a vehicle and then fails to return it as agreed, this is prosecuted under Texas’s “theft of service” statute. The severity of the penalty depends on the value of the vehicle.
What Are the Penalties for Car Theft in Texas?
Penalties for auto theft in Texas depend on the stolen car’s value and the circumstances of the crime. Various factors can increase the severity of the charge, such as the use of a weapon, prior criminal history, or if the victim is an elderly person.
- Less than $2,500: Misdemeanor (Class A/B), up to 1 year in jail, fines up to $4,000
- $2,500 – $30,000: State Jail Felony, 180 days to 2 years in state jail, up to $10,000 fine
- $30,000 – $150,000: Third-Degree Felony, 2 to 10 years in prison, up to $10,000 fine
- $150,000 – $300,000: Second-Degree Felony, 2 to 20 years in prison, up to $10,000 fine
- Over $300,000: 5 years to life in prison, up to $10,000 fine
Along with prison time and heavy fines, a conviction for car theft can result in difficulty finding employment and housing. Juvenile criminal records also impact educational opportunities.
What Are the Penalties for Joyriding in Texas?
In Texas, joyriding or Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle (UUMV) is classified as a state jail felony. Penalties can include:
- 180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility
- A fine of up to $10,000
A felony conviction can also affect employment, housing, and educational opportunities.
Juvenile Car Theft and Joyriding Charges
Car theft and joyriding charges in Texas are handled differently for juveniles compared to adults.
The juvenile justice system emphasizes rehabilitation, education, and community service over long-term incarceration. Instead of a traditional guilty verdict, a judge determines whether the juvenile engaged in “delinquent conduct” after a hearing.
If a juvenile is found to have committed car theft or joyriding, possible consequences include:
- Probation
- Community service
- Restitution to the car owner
- Driver’s license suspension
- Placement in a juvenile detention facility
If the offense involves aggravating circumstances, such as use of a weapon, injury, gang involvement, or fleeing law enforcement, penalties can be more severe, and the case might be transferred to adult court.
How an Auto Theft Attorney Can Help
Working with an experienced auto theft lawyer is vital if you or your child is charged with car theft. Here’s how our team at the Cowboy Law Group can help.
Investigating the Case and Challenging Evidence
A defense attorney will thoroughly review the circumstances of the arrest, the actions of law enforcement, and the prosecution’s evidence. If there were procedural errors, such as an unlawful search, improper warrant, or mishandling of evidence, your attorney can file motions to suppress that evidence, potentially weakening the prosecution’s case.
Developing Effective Legal Defenses
Several defenses may be available in auto theft cases, including:
- Lack of Intent: If your teen did not intend to steal the vehicle or believed they had permission, this can be a strong defense.
- Mistaken Identity: If you were wrongly identified as the perpetrator, your attorney can present alibi evidence or challenge witness testimony.
- Owner’s Consent: If the vehicle owner gave permission to use the car, this undermines the theft charge.
- Temporary Use: If your teenager only intended to use the car briefly and return it, the charge may be reduced to joyriding (unauthorized use of a vehicle).
- Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. If they cannot, the charges may be reduced or dismissed.
Negotiating with Prosecutors or Juvenile Courts
Experienced auto theft defense attorneys can negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or even dismissal, especially if it’s a first offense or there are mitigating circumstances.
Juvenile courts favor rehabilitation in most cases, and a car theft attorney will work tirelessly to minimize penalties and help youthful offenders move forward.
Protecting Your Rights or Your Teen’s Rights
A car theft lawyer will protect your constitutional rights from arraignment to trial. We understand the rights of juveniles accused of crimes in Texas and can help families navigate the juvenile justice system.
Why Choose Cowboy Law Group as Your Auto Theft Defense Lawyer?
If you or a young family member has been accused of car theft, having the right legal team on your side can make a big difference. At Cowboy Law Group, we know how serious these charges are, and we’re here to help you face them head-on. Our team is committed to standing by your side and fighting for the best possible outcome.
Strong Defense Backed by Texas Toughness
At Cowboy Law Group, we take pride in our relentless work ethic and no-nonsense attitude. We don’t back down when it comes to protecting our clients. Our knowledge of Texas law and hands-on experience allow us to build smart, effective defense strategies tailored to your situation. We’re known for being dependable, aggressive advocates who always keep your best interests in mind.
Chris H. Warren: Your Go-To Criminal Defense Attorney
Founding attorney Chris H. Warren brings more than 22 years of courtroom experience to every case. He’s handled a wide range of criminal cases, including vehicle theft and related charges. With a background in both adult and juvenile defense, Chris knows how to navigate the system and fight for your rights. Clients appreciate his honesty, dedication, and commitment to getting results.
Personalized Legal Strategy
No two cases are exactly alike. That’s why we take the time to listen to your story and learn every detail about your situation. Whether you’re facing a felony or a lesser charge, we’ll build a personalized defense strategy designed to reduce the penalties and protect your future. Our goal is to keep your record clean and help you move forward with confidence.
When you choose Cowboy Law Group, you’re choosing a team that puts your needs first and never backs down from a fight. Don’t face vehicle theft charges alone. Reach out today and let us help you take back control of your future.
Contact a Car Theft Lawyer Today for a Free Case Review
Auto theft cases carry serious penalties for adults and juveniles. Prosecutors are tough, and the laws are strict. If you or a loved one has been charged with car theft in the Woodlands, Houston, or elsewhere in Texas, don’t wait to seek help.
A skilled Texas criminal defense attorney at the Cowboy Law Group will fight to minimize penalties and help defendants and their families move forward. Call 832-326-2932 or use our contact form for a free case review.
