Last Updated on: 17th October 2023, 10:57 pm

Brooklyn Motor Vehicle Theft/Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle Lawyers

Having your car stolen is a huge hassle and major inconvenience. Not only do you lose your main mode of transportation, you now have to deal with insurance claims, police reports and the costs of replacing your vehicle. If you live in Brooklyn and have been charged with motor vehicle theft, unauthorized use of a vehicle or a related offense, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side.

In this article, we’ll break down Brooklyn’s laws on motor vehicle theft and unauthorized use, the penalties you may face, and strategies a knowledgeable lawyer can use to fight the charges against you. We’ll also discuss common defenses and what to expect at each stage of your case – from investigation and arrest to pretrial hearings, plea bargains and trial.

Brooklyn Motor Vehicle Theft and Unauthorized Use Laws

In New York, motor vehicle theft and unauthorized use charges fall under Article 165 of the New York Penal Code. The two main offenses include:

• Grand larceny of a motor vehicle in the third degree – stealing a vehicle worth over $3,000 (Class D felony)
• Unauthorized use of a vehicle in the third degree – taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent (Class A misdemeanor)

Prosecutors may also charge defendants with other related crimes like criminal possession of stolen property, tampering with a vehicle identification number, or possession of burglar’s tools.

Penalties vary based on the specific charge but can include fines up to $5,000 and jail time up to 4 years for a felony or 1 year for a misdemeanor. You may also face probation or restitution payments. These are serious consequences that can impact your finances, freedom and future opportunities.

Fighting Brooklyn Motor Vehicle Theft Charges

As a defendant, you have legal rights and defenses that an experienced attorney can use to get charges reduced or dismissed. Some strategies we may use include:

• You didn’t know the vehicle was stolen – For example, you borrowed a friend’s car and didn’t realize it was stolen.
• You had permission to use the vehicle – The owner gave you consent, but now falsely claims the car was taken without permission.
• Misidentification – Police arrest the wrong person based on flawed eyewitness accounts or misunderstandings.
• Entrapment – An undercover cop convinces you to commit a crime you wouldn’t have otherwise.
• Illegal search and seizure – Police conduct an unlawful search or detain you without probable cause.
• Miranda violations – Officers question you without reading you your rights.

An experienced lawyer will thoroughly investigate your case to identify potential defenses. We’ll interview witnesses, collect evidence, and develop a legal strategy to fight the charges against you.

Find a Brooklyn Motor Vehicle Theft Lawyer

Dealing with criminal charges is overwhelming. An experienced Brooklyn motor vehicle theft attorney understands the local courts and how to build a strong defense to achieve the best outcome for your unique situation. Don’t leave your future to chance – contact a lawyer today.