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Grand Theft Auto

Grand theft auto is a serious criminal offense in Florida, carrying significant penalties for those convicted. In Florida, the crime of grand theft auto involves the intentional or knowing taking of a motor vehicle that belongs to another person, without their consent, with the intent to deprive the owner of the vehicle. It is essential to contact a grand theft auto defense lawyer if you have been charged with this crime. The attorneys at Hanlon Law have invaluable experience defending clients facing serious criminal charges.


Penalties for Grand Theft Auto Charges in Florida 


Florida's grand theft auto laws are strict, and penalties for a conviction can be severe. The penalties depend on several factors, including the value of the vehicle, whether the defendant used a weapon during the offense, and the defendant's criminal history. 


In Florida, grand theft auto is classified as a third-degree felony, which carries a maximum penalty of up to five years in prison, five years of probation, and a fine of up to $5,000. If the vehicle's value is $20,000 or more, the charge is elevated to a second-degree felony, which carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, 15 years of probation, and a fine of up to $10,000.


If the defendant used a firearm or other weapon during the commission of the offense, they could face additional charges, including armed robbery or armed carjacking, which carry even more severe penalties. Armed robbery is a first-degree felony, punishable by up to life in prison, while armed carjacking is a first-degree felony, punishable by up to 30 years in prison.


Additionally, if the defendant has a prior criminal record, they may face increased penalties for a grand theft auto conviction. Prior convictions for certain offenses, such as violent crimes or theft-related offenses, can enhance the charge to a first-degree felony, increasing the maximum penalty to life in prison.


Defense Methods for Grand Theft Auto Charges 


If a person is accused of grand theft auto in Florida, they should seek legal representation immediately. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help the defendant understand their rights, review the evidence against them, and build a strong defense strategy to protect their freedom and their future.


One common defense strategy in grand theft auto cases is to challenge the prosecution's evidence that the defendant intended to permanently deprive the owner of the vehicle. The defense may argue that the defendant intended to borrow the vehicle temporarily, with the owner's consent, and did not have the necessary intent to commit grand theft auto.


Another defense strategy is to challenge the prosecution's evidence that the defendant took the vehicle without the owner's consent. The defense may argue that the owner consented to the defendant taking the vehicle, either explicitly or implicitly, and that no theft occurred.


In some cases, the defense may argue that the defendant did not know that the vehicle belonged to someone else, or that they believed they had a legal right to take the vehicle. This defense strategy is more likely to be successful in cases where the defendant took the wrong vehicle by mistake, or where there was a misunderstanding about the ownership of the vehicle.


Ultimately, the success of a defense strategy will depend on the specific facts of the case, the strength of the evidence against the defendant, and the skill and experience of the defense attorney. Defendants accused of grand theft auto in Florida should work closely with their attorney to develop the best possible defense strategy for their case.


Contact a Kissimmee Criminal Defense Lawyer Today


Grand theft auto is a severe criminal offense in Florida that can carry significant penalties for those convicted. If a person is accused of grand theft auto in Florida, they should seek legal representation immediately to protect their rights and their freedom. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help the defendant understand their options, review the evidence against them, and build a strong defense strategy to protect their interests.The lawyers at Hanlon Law provide aggressive defenses to those accused of grand theft auto. We understand how scary it can be to face charges for this crime and provide personalized representation. 

 

If you are facing grand theft auto charges in Kissimmee, Florida, contact the attorneys at Hanlon Law today to protect your future.

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