Unauthorized use of a vehicle is a state-level jail felony in Texas, which could include years of imprisonment and thousands of fines if convicted. However, you may have been wrongfully accused for numerous reasons. Our Houston criminal defense lawyer wants to defend your rights while ensuring you do not pay for an unfounded crime.
You are innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Put the weight of over five decades of collective experience behind your charges with Walter J. Pink & Associates, PC. Schedule your free consultation at (713) 664-6651 to learn more about your options.
Why Hire Walter J. Pink & Associates, PC?
When facing auto theft charges, securing the right legal representation is crucial. The law experts at Walter J. Pink & Associates, PC is here to provide the defense you need.
Our Houston auto theft defense attorney is known for:
- Experience—With over five decades of dedicated service spanning three generations, our firm has a deep well of experience in defending clients against serious charges.
- Reputation—We have built a strong track record of success, backed by numerous positive client testimonials.
- Tenacity—Our legal team is relentless in defending your rights, both inside and outside the courtroom, ensuring the criminal justice system is held accountable at every turn.
Walter J. Pink & Associates, PC Will Hold Prosecutors Accountable
Texas charges auto theft crimes under TX Penal Code § 31.07. Essentially, the statute defines unauthorized use of a vehicle is when you do so without consent. So, why does this definition matter? It matters because it determines what elements prosecutors must prove to secure a conviction. Otherwise, they should not get one.
Our Houston auto theft defense lawyer will investigate your case for the following elements:
- Was the vehicle a boat, airplane, or motor-propelled vehicle?
- Did you have the owner’s consent to use it?
- Was the owner’s consent effective?
- Did you know that you did not have the owner’s consent? And if you did, did you intentionally ignore the owner’s lack of consent?
The answers to these questions will give Walter J. Pink & Associates, PC, a solid footing to position your case. However, we may see what the prosecutors can prove before asking you about the case details directly. This strategy ensures that you are not saying more than necessary while giving us time to determine how strong the prosecutor’s case against you is.
Wrongfully charged with a DUI? Contact an expert Houston DUI defense attorney today to pursue compensation.
There Are Severe Penalties for Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle Convictions
Texas statutes also explicitly state what general sentencing provisions are on the line. The criminal statute tells us that a conviction for unauthorized use of a vehicle is a state jail felony.
Under TX Penal Code § 12.35, the following penalties are on the line:
- Between 180 days and two years of state jail confinement
- Up to $10,000 in fines
You could face even steeper penalties if the act involved a deadly weapon or you have a previous felony conviction. Do not leave your future to chance. Put the right legal team on your side with the Houston auto theft lawyers at Walter J. Pink & Associates, PC.
Potential Defenses to Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle
Upon hiring us, Walter J. Pink & Associates, PC, will immediately investigate the facts. Our Houston auto theft lawyer may determine that the following defenses apply to your case:
- You owned the vehicle
- You had consent to use it
- You never intended to deprive the owner
- Police violated your civil rights
- Police arrested the wrong person
- Prosecutors do not have enough evidence
- Other valid defenses
Get Answers from Our Houston Auto Theft Lawyers at No Cost
Walter J. Pink & Associates, PC, is experienced and knowledgeable in defending criminal charges. Our Houston auto theft lawyers will protect your rights, hold prosecutors accountable to their burden of proof, and refute any admissible evidence.
Find out more about how our legal team could help you during a free consultation by calling (713) 664-6651 or messaging us.