Misplaced good intentions or a simple mistake can quickly escalate to charges of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. Regardless of the circumstances, you need a serious defense attorney to protect you from the severe consequences of conviction. You need My Dallas Criminal Lawyer. Our attorneys are committed to protecting Dallas residents in the face of life-altering criminal charges, and we want to help you seek the positive outcome you deserve. Contact us today for an initial consultation with our Dallas unauthorized use of motor vehicle attorneys, and let’s discuss your next steps together.

Do You Need an Attorney After an Arrest for Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle?

Don’t make the mistake of facing the criminal justice system alone. Instead, let our unauthorized use of motor vehicle attorneys help you by:

• Independently investigating your charges to find all available evidence to support your case
• Identifying potential defense strategies based on what we uncover
• Helping you understand your charges and the potential outcomes of your case so you can make informed decisions
• Contesting the prosecution’s case at every opportunity to pursue an efficient resolution
• Fighting for the best possible outcome to your charges, even if that means going to trial

Why Choose a Criminal Defense Lawyer from My Dallas Criminal Lawyer?

Of all the defense firms in town, why choose My Dallas Criminal Lawyer for your case? Here’s why:

• Our attorneys have built a reputation for providing clients with the careful case preparation, vigorous legal advocacy, and top-quality service they need and deserve.
• We tailor our approach to each client’s specific case, needs, goals, and concerns.
• You will work directly with a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer who will take the time to hear your story, help you understand your case and legal options, and develop a compelling strategy based on your unique circumstances.
• Our lawyers use their extensive legal knowledge and litigation skills to defend your rights, reputation, and future.

Understanding Unauthorized Use of Motor Vehicle Charges

Texas law criminalizes intentionally or knowingly operating someone else’s boat, aircraft, or motor-propelled vehicle without their consent. Here are some common circumstances that can lead to a charge of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle:

• “Joyriding”: A young person could face charges of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle if they sneak out with a family member’s vehicle and use it without permission, even if the teen ultimately returns the vehicle.
• Borrowing a vehicle without express permission: A defendant could face prosecution for unauthorized use of a motor vehicle if they borrow a vehicle from a family member or a housemate without the owner’s express permission or consent.
• Using a vehicle without the owner’s knowledge: Similarly, someone could be charged for taking a car without the owner’s knowledge. An example would be an employee who takes a fleet vehicle without their supervisor’s or employer’s permission or instruction.
• Using a vehicle reported stolen: A defendant may face charges for unauthorized use of a motor vehicle if they operate a motor vehicle, boat, or aircraft that the owner had reported stolen, regardless of whether the person knew that another party had stolen the vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions About Unauthorized Use of Motor Vehicle Charges

Still have questions about unauthorized use of motor vehicle charges? We have the answers.

What penalties could I face for a conviction for unauthorized use of motor vehicles?

Unauthorized use of a motor vehicle constitutes a state jail felony in Texas, which can impose a sentence of 180 days to two years in state jail, plus a potential fine of up to $10,000. However, a state jail felony may increase in grading to a third-degree felony if the offender:

• Used or exhibited a deadly weapon during the offense or during immediate flight from committing the offense
• Has a prior felony conviction that involved an affirmative finding regarding the use or exhibition of a deadly weapon

A sentence under a third-grade charge can include two to ten years in prison plus a potential fine of up to $10,000.

A defendant convicted of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle may also receive a restitution order as part of their sentence if they damaged the victim’s vehicle or otherwise caused the victim to incur pecuniary loss due to the offense. Restitution requires the defendant to reimburse the victim for financial losses they suffered due to the defendant’s crime.

What defenses might I have against a charge of unauthorized use of motor vehicles?

There are several potential defenses available to you, depending on the circumstances behind the charges. Common strategies include:

• Lack of intent: Because the statute requires a defendant to act intentionally or knowingly, defendants may argue that the prosecution’s case against them fails to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that they acted with the required criminal intent.
• Consent: A defendant may provide evidence proving that the vehicle’s owner gave consent for the defendant’s use of the vehicle, such as a text message or voicemail providing permission to use the vehicle or a pattern and practice of the owner allowing the defendant to use the vehicle at will.
• Mistaken identity: Defendants may challenge eyewitnesses’ identification of the defendants as the operators of the vehicles during their unauthorized use.
• Alibi: A defendant may present alibi evidence to prove their location when the alleged unauthorized use of the victim’s vehicle occurred.

What steps should I take after an arrest?

What you do following an arrest can have a considerable impact on your case. You can protect yourself by exercising your right to remain silent, refraining from answering police questions, and requesting to speak with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The sooner you do, the more robust of a case they can mount in your defense.

Contact Us Today for Dedicated Legal Advocacy

Have you been arrested for unauthorized use of a motor vehicle? If so, you need dedicated, experienced legal counsel to protect your rights and reputation. Call My Dallas Criminal Lawyer and 214-949-4117 today for a confidential consultation with a criminal defense attorney who’s ready to act aggressively on your behalf.