How Much Time Can a Juvenile Get for Stealing a Car in Texas?

 Posted on October 03, 2024 in Criminal Defense

If a juvenile steals a car in Texas, the potential consequences depend on several factors, like the value of the car, the circumstances of the theft, and whether the juvenile has a criminal history. Stealing a car is considered auto theft, a form of robbery, which can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. 

In Texas, juveniles involved in car theft might face charges of "unauthorized use of a motor vehicle" or "theft of property," and the severity of the charge can vary. Depending on the situation, the juvenile could be placed in a juvenile detention center, given probation, or even ordered to pay restitution to the car owner. If your child is facing car theft charges, contact a Plano, TX carjacking defense attorney for help right away. Your child’s future is at stake.

What Charges Can a Juvenile Face for Stealing a Car in Texas?

In Texas, a juvenile who steals a car may be charged with "unauthorized use of a motor vehicle" (UUMV) or "theft of property." UUMV is usually used when someone takes a car without the owner's permission but does not plan to keep it. This is generally a state jail felony, punishable by 180 days to two years in a state jail, along with potential fines of up to $10,000. 

If the juvenile intended to keep the car or sell it, they could be charged with theft of property, and the severity of the punishment would depend on the car's value. If the vehicle is worth more than $30,000, this can lead to felony charges.

Can a Juvenile Be Charged as an Adult for Stealing a Car in Texas?

Yes, in certain circumstances, a juvenile can be charged as an adult for stealing a car in Texas. This generally happens if the juvenile is at least 14 years old and has committed a serious felony or has a previous criminal history. If the car theft involves aggravating factors, such as violence, or if the juvenile has been involved in other crimes before, the case could be moved to adult court. 

In adult court, the penalties are much more severe, and the juvenile could face years in state prison instead of time in a juvenile facility. The decision to transfer the case to adult court is made by a juvenile judge based on factors like the nature of the crime and the minor’s behavior.

What Aggravating Factors Could Increase the Charges for Car Theft?

Aggravating factors can make car theft charges more serious, even for juveniles. If any of the following actions occurred during the car theft, the penalties could become much harsher:

• Use of a Weapon: If a weapon is used to threaten or intimidate the car's owner, the charges could be elevated to a first-degree felony, leading to a possible prison sentence of five to 99 years.

• Reckless Driving or Injury: If reckless driving leads to an accident or injury, the juvenile could face additional charges, such as assault, which could increase the overall penalties.

• Gang Involvement: Participating in the theft as part of a gang can result in more severe charges since gang-related offenses are prosecuted more aggressively.

• Fleeing from Law Enforcement: If the juvenile tries to run or drive away from police during or after the theft, extra charges, such as evading arrest, can be added. This could result in added jail time or fines.

• Threats or Violence: Any use of threats or physical force can turn the crime into a violent offense, which carries stricter punishments.

These aggravating factors can lead to harsher sentences and increase the chances of being tried as an adult. It is crucial to have an attorney who understands how to handle these factors and reduce the severity of the penalties.

What Are the Consequences if a Juvenile Is Convicted of Car Theft?

If a juvenile is convicted of car theft in Texas, the consequences depend on whether they are tried in juvenile or adult court. In juvenile court, penalties often focus on rehabilitation and can include probation, community service, or time in a juvenile detention facility. The juvenile may also be ordered to pay restitution to the car owner.

If tried as an adult, however, the penalties are much more severe. Felony convictions for car theft can result in years of imprisonment, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record. This criminal record could impact the juvenile’s future opportunities for jobs, housing, and education. Having a felony record at a young age can make it difficult to move forward and succeed in life without facing major barriers.

Contact a Plano, TX Car Theft Defense Lawyer

If your child is facing charges for stealing a car in Texas, it is important to act quickly to protect their future. The legal system can be harsh, especially if aggravating factors are involved, and having a knowledgeable attorney is crucial to securing the best possible outcome. Contact a Plano, TX carjacking defense attorney at The Crowder Law Firm, P.C. today at 214-544-0061 to discuss your case and learn how we can help defend your child's rights and work toward minimizing the penalties they may face.