Vehicle Theft in Michigan

Under Michigan law, a person accused of car theft can face various felony and misdemeanor charges. Because of the state’s automotive manufacturing history, vehicle theft offenses carry stiff penalties.

Type of Car Theft Offenses

If an unoccupied vehicle is stolen, the severity of the offense depends on the vehicle’s value and the defendant’s criminal history. If you have been charged with car theft, a Michigan car theft defense attorney can help you if you are accused of vehicle theft. As explained below, various defenses to car theft can result in the dismissal or reduction of charges. Jail is not mandatory for any car theft offense other than stealing a vehicle from a person under force (carjacking is a life-maximum offense).

Larceny of a Vehicle – Value over $20,000 or two prior larceny convictions – Maximum of 10 years in prison.
Larceny of a Vehicle – Value between $1,000 and $20,000 or 1 prior larceny conviction – Maximum 5 years in prison.
Larceny of a Vehicle – Value between $200 and $1,000 or one previous larceny ordinance violation – Maximum 1 year in jail.
Failure to Return a Rented Vehicle – Value over $20,000 – Maximum of 10 years in prison.
Failure to Return a Rented Vehicle – Value between $1,000 and $20,000 – Maximum 5 years in prison.
Failure to Return a Rented Vehicle – Value between $200 and $1,000 – Maximum 1 year in jail.
Driving Away a Vehicle without Permission (Unlawful Driving Away of an Automobile) – Maximum 5 years in prison.
Unlawful Use of a Vehicle Without the Intent to Steal – Maximum 2 years in prison.
Unlawful Use of a Vehicle – First Offense – Maximum can be reduced from 2 years to 90 days.
Larceny of a Vehicle by Conversion – Maximum of 5 or 10 years, depending on the vehicle’s value.
Carjacking – Up to life in prison.

Defenses Against Car Theft Charges in Michigan

If you have been charged with car theft, below is a list of some common defenses that may be used to obtain a dismissal or a reduction of the charge:

No intent to steal – If someone drives a vehicle but does not intend to permanently deprive the owner of the car, the offense is less serious than car theft.

Mistaken identity – Sometimes, the wrong person is accused of taking property.

Duress – People are not guilty if they take a vehicle to prevent more significant harm (like driving a gravely injured person to the hospital).

Claim of right – A person with a right to possession of a vehicle cannot be guilty of stealing it from a co-owner.

False allegation – If the vehicle owner falsely alleges another person stole a vehicle, the defense would be that the crime never happened.

“Do I have to go to jail for car theft?”

Except for carjacking, jail is not mandatory for any car theft-related offense. Although prison is not mandatory, judges and prosecutors take a harsh approach to people charged with car theft. As a result of auto theft, everyone, including prosecutors and judges, pays higher insurance rates. Because of the widespread financial impact of these offenses, a sentencing judge might feel it is incumbent on them to use a jail sentence as an attempted deterrent for others in the community.

The good and affordable Defense Team with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. leaves no stone unturned in our fight to keep clients out of jail. In many cases, we can prevent a conviction altogether. Our mission as top defense lawyers in Michigan is to do whatever it takes to get charges dismissed, when possible. We will passionately and effectively advocate for reduced charges and a lenient sentence if a conviction is unavoidable. If a judge can be persuaded to focus on rehabilitation instead of punishment, a punitive sentence can likely be avoided.

“What should I do if I’m accused?”

If you have been charged with car theft, hiring counsel as soon as possible is essential. A savvy, experienced defense lawyer can convince the police or prosecutor to consider charging a less severe offense if you are not yet charged. Additionally, someone with retained, pre-charge defense counsel is likely to be allowed to avoid arrest through an agreement for self-surrender. Waiting to see if you are charged is the worst decision you can make.

Michigan’s Top Car Theft Defense Team

The lawyers with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. work as a team and collaborate on every client’s case. Using a team approach, we consistently achieve results that many other lawyers are incapable of obtaining. With our firm, you get experienced lawyers, a fearless defense, loyal and aggressive advocacy, experienced investigators, outstanding communication and client relations, and an unparalleled track record of success. Call us for a free consultation and confidential case evaluation. We will take the time to discuss your case, answer your questions, and address your concerns. We will find a way to help you!

Call us today at (248) 263-6800 for a free consultation or complete an online Request for Assistance Form. We will contact you promptly and find a way to help you.