Auto Theft

Auto theft is the criminal act of stealing or using another person's vehicle without consent. Such theft charges can also be brought against a person who uses threats or deception to steal another person's car. When a person uses a weapon, force or violence to steal a vehicle it is referred to as the separate offense of carjacking, or as it is more formally known under Illinois law, vehicular hijacking.

At Fagan, Fagan & Davis, we are dedicated to helping our clients fight their auto theft charges. We have a great deal of experience defending clients against these types of charges, and are familiar with a number of defense strategies that have proven to be effective time and time again. When you retain our services, you can trust that an experienced and skilled attorney will defend your rights throughout every stage of your case. Our main priority is making sure you are provided with exceptional defense representation to help you protect your personal freedoms.

Potential Penalties

Because the value of most vehicles is over $10,000, auto theft typically warrants felony charges. People convicted of auto theft can expect to face a number of serious penalties, including up to 7 years in state prison and $25,000 in fines. Other penalties for auto theft, burglary to auto or possession of a stolen motor vehicle may include probation, community service, driver's license suspension or revocation, and a permanent criminal record. Furthermore, you may also be required to repay the victim for the value of the stolen vehicle, commonly called restitution under Illinois criminal law.

Contact a Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney

In addition to these legal penalties, you may also experience consequences in other areas of your life. With an auto theft conviction on your record, you may be denied a loan, have trouble obtaining credit, or have difficulty finding employment. In addition, you may also find yourself alienated from your community and your relationships with your friends and family may become strained. If you have been charged with auto theft, it's very important that you obtain the experienced counsel of an Chicago theft attorney as soon as possible to help you challenge these serious allegations!