New Jersey Auto Theft Defense Attorney: Protecting Your Rights

Being charged with auto theft in New Jersey can have severe consequences, including years in prison and hefty fines. That’s why it’s critical to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side if you’re facing these allegations. As a former prosecutor and public defender in New Jersey, I understand how these cases work from both sides, and I know how to build an effective defense.

Overview of Auto Theft Laws in New Jersey

New Jersey categorizes auto theft as a fourth-degree crime. If convicted, you could face up to 18 months in jail and fines up to $10,000. The law defines auto theft as taking, operating, or controlling a motor vehicle without the owner’s consent and with the purpose of withholding it temporarily.

Penalties increase for repeat offenses:

• First conviction: $500 additional fine, 1-year license suspension
• Second conviction: $750 additional fine, 2-year license suspension
• Third conviction: $1,000 additional fine, 10-year license suspension

Prosecutors take these cases very seriously—even for juveniles. Wrecking or damaging the stolen vehicle can also lead to more charges like risk of injury to persons or property.

How an Attorney Can Defend You Against Auto Theft Charges

As an auto theft defense attorney, my first priorities are getting you released from custody (if applicable) and preventing you from incriminating yourself. I advise all my clients to avoid answering questions or making statements until I can review the case. Even a simple mistake can hurt your defense down the road.

Next, I dig into the details. I’ll investigate whether proper procedures were followed, review the strength of the evidence, and identify any constitutional rights violations. My goal is to get charges reduced or dismissed through motions and negotiations.

If your case does go to trial, I’ll aggressively cross-examine witnesses and require the prosecution to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. I’ll also present evidence and testimony to contradict their version of events. My extensive trial experience provides a key advantage here.

Strategies for Fighting Auto Theft Charges

Some of the defense strategies I commonly employ in auto theft cases include:

• Lack of criminal intent – If you took a vehicle believing you had permission or the owner had given consent, you may not have possessed the intent required for a theft conviction.
• Misidentification – Eyewitness misidentification is a common cause of wrongful convictions. If the evidence against you is weak, I can challenge it.
• Unlawful search and seizure – If police violated your Fourth Amendment rights by searching you or the vehicle illegally, any evidence found may be inadmissible.
• Miranda violations – Failure to read you your Miranda rights or coercing a confession could make that confession invalid.
• Entrapment – If police improperly induced you to commit a crime you otherwise wouldn’t have, we may have an entrapment defense.
• Intoxication – Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol could negate the intent required for conviction in some cases.
• Alibi – An alibi showing you were somewhere else at the time can completely exonerate you.
• Necessity – In rare cases, temporarily taking a vehicle out of necessity (i.e. medical emergency) may provide a defense.

Why Choose Our Firm?

With decades of experience on both sides of criminal law in New Jersey, I know what it takes to build a strong auto theft defense. I have the skills to aggressively challenge the prosecution’s version of events and the resources to thoroughly investigate your case.

My firm also has a statewide presence with 9 convenient office locations, so I can easily meet with you if you’re facing charges anywhere in New Jersey. When your freedom and reputation are on the line, you need an attorney with proven experience. Let me put my expertise to work fighting for you.

Contact My Team for a Free Consultation

Don’t leave your fate in the hands of an overzealous prosecutor. The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall have an exceptional track record defending clients against auto theft and other theft-related charges. Call us today at (609) 989-7771 or request a free case evaluation online to discuss your situation. I’ll provide honest answers to your questions and help you understand all your options, so you can make informed decisions. With me as your advocate, you can feel confident your rights will be protected.