Colorado Vehicle Theft Lawyer

Being charged with motor vehicle theft in Colorado can lead to serious penalties, including hefty fines and jail time. If you or someone you care about is facing theft charges, it’s critical to act quickly to protect your rights. The skilled motor vehicle theft attorneys at Right Law Group are here to help.

At Right Law Group, our experienced theft defense lawyers are ready to help you. We will explain your rights clearly and build a strong defense to protect your future. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case. We have conveniently located offices in Colorado Springs, Highlands Ranch and Castle Rock.

Colorado counties we serve: Arapahoe, Douglas, El Paso, Fremont, Jefferson, Pueblo, and Teller.

Defining Motor Vehicle Theft in Colorado

According to Colorado law, motor vehicle theft transpires when an individual knowingly acquires or takes control of a motor vehicle without permission from the owner.

This crime is often referred to as “grand theft auto” but can include the theft of any type of motor vehicle. Motor vehicle theft involves someone taking another’s car or other vehicle without permission to drive the vehicle, with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of the car.

Some common examples of motor vehicle theft in Colorado Springs include:

• Stealing an unattended vehicle that was left running
• Taking a vehicle from a parking lot or garage
• Using force or threats to steal a car from its driver (carjacking)
• Driving off in a rental car without returning it
• Taking a vehicle from a dealership lot without purchase
• Taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent, even if the intent was to just “borrow” it temporarily

Penalties for a Motor Vehicle Theft Conviction

In Colorado, motor vehicle theft charges can range from a class 1 misdemeanor to a class 3 felony, depending on the value of the stolen vehicle and other factors.

Motor vehicle theft is classified from lowest to highest. The penalties for a conviction of motor vehicle theft in Colorado depend on the severity of the charges, the value of the stolen vehicle, and your criminal history, if any.

If aggravating factors are present, such as using the vehicle to commit a crime, the charges will be enhanced.

Common Defenses Against Motor Vehicle Theft in Colorado

Being accused of motor vehicle theft does not automatically mean you will be convicted. Our criminal defense attorneys can carefully analyze the possibilities of your case to determine if any viable defenses may apply.

Some examples of defenses we may use against motor vehicle theft charges include:

• You had permission to use the vehicle: Perhaps you borrowed a friend’s or family member’s car with their consent. Without proof you intended to permanently deprive them of the vehicle, this may not qualify as “theft.”
• You did not know the vehicle was stolen: If someone else provided you with a stolen vehicle without your knowledge, you may have a valid defense.
• Mistaken identity: The prosecution’s identification of you as the perpetrator may be flawed or unreliable. Eyewitness misidentification is a common contributor to wrongful convictions.
• False allegations: The accuser fabricated the theft allegations against you for ulterior motives.

A Colorado Springs theft lawyer can determine which defenses might apply and challenge the prosecution’s ability to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Work With a Seasoned Colorado Springs Criminal Defense Attorney

Don’t leave your future up to chance. The Colorado Springs criminal defense attorneys at Right Law Group have successfully defended clients against all types of theft charges. We will investigate your case, build a strong defense on your behalf, negotiate aggressively with prosecutors, and take your case to trial if needed.

Every case is different, so to discuss your options for beating the charges, contact Right Law Group for a free case evaluation today. Our dedicated team is here to provide the powerful representation you deserve. With our criminal defense lawyer on your side, you can overcome these charges and move forward with your life.