Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney

Information About Carjacking Crimes

California Penal Code 215 PC defines carjacking as taking a motor vehicle from another person by way of force or fear. In this case "force or fear" refers to actually inflicting physical force against the victim, or threatening to inflict physical harm. Carjacking is a very serious crime, and it is advised that you contact a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney as soon as possible if you have been arrested and charged with this offense.

Stephen G. Rodriguez and Associates is comprised of a team of attorneys with 70 years of collective experience. We have addressed criminal charges of all types, including those for carjacking, and we are well versed in the defenses that can be effectively employed in such cases. If you are facing carjacking charges, it may be possible to establish that you did not use force or fear when taking the vehicle, that you had obtained prior consent to take the vehicle, or that it is a case of mistaken identity and you had nothing to do with the crime. Our firm will fight aggressively in an effort to reach a case resolution that is beneficial to you.

Carjacking Penalties in Los Angeles

Carjacking is a felony offense that is punishable by probation, up to $10,000 in fines, and up to 9 years in state prison. It is important to note that these penalties apply to each victim present in the car. If there are multiple individuals inside the vehicle, the penalties increase. In addition to these penalties, there are sentencing enhancements for carjacking that involve great bodily injury, the use of a weapon, or the murdering of someone during the crime.

If you have been arrested for carjacking, contact a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer who will employ aggressive defense tactics in order to increase your chances of a favorable case outcome.