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In California, Grand Theft Auto is defined as a situation when someone takes another person's car without consent with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. California Penal Code defines a grand theft as a theft where the property stolen has a value of more than $400. Auto theft falls under that category. Grand theft auto is mostly charged as a felony although sometimes, it could be charged as a misdemeanor depending on the defendant's prior criminal record.
The penalties, as with any felony, are severe. If convicted of grand theft auto, you could face between one and three years in state prison, steep fines, restitution or probation. In a worst-case scenario, if you've already had "two strikes," an auto theft could count as a third strike, ensuring a lengthy prison term.
If you have been accused of an auto theft, you need a skilful Orange County auto theft defense attorney to scour police reports, detect holes in the prosecution's case and identify weaknesses in the arresting officer's report. There are several elements that must be proved in such a case. First, the prosecution must prove that you did indeed take someone's vehicle without his or her permission and secondly, establish that you did so with the intention of permanently depriving him or her of the vehicle.
The stakes are higher if you've already been convicted of grand theft auto before. That could increase your prison term and you could even end up having to pay fines of up to $10,000.
The Law offices of Kate L. Raynor and Associates are equipped with all the right tools to help you get the best possible results on your case. We'll work to investigate your case and win you and acquittal or get your charges reduced and bring down your fines. A felony charge on your record can be lethal to your career. You need a knowledgeable, skilful and tenacious attorney who will keep you informed every step of the way and through the legal process so you can worry less about the courts and more about getting your life together.
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