Being arrested for an offense involving the forceful taking of a vehicle in Tucson, Arizona, is a frightening experience, and the stakes might be higher than you realize. Arizona does not have a separate criminal offense called carjacking, but this conduct can lead to serious felony charges carrying years in prison, substantial fines, and other consequences for defendants.
Getting experienced legal help early can give you a clearer picture of what comes next. Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys represents people facing serious criminal charges in Tucson. Contact us today at (520) 510-0439 to schedule a free case evaluation with a Tucson carjacking attorney.
Why Choose Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys for Help If You’re Arrested for Carjacking in Tucson?
Anyone facing theft crime allegations involving the forceful taking of a vehicle in Tucson, AZ, has a lot at stake. Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys can work with you to build a robust defense and ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.
Our Tucson theft crimes lawyers understand the severe penalties associated with carjacking, including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines.
When you work with us, you benefit from:
- Attorneys with 45 years of combined experience
- Proven results, with 170 five-star Google reviews
- Thousands of clients represented in criminal matters
- An exclusive focus on criminal defense
From your first call, we’ll walk you through what to expect, explain your options in plain language, and start examining the charges and evidence in your case. A Tucson criminal defense attorney can help you understand how Arizona law applies to the allegations against you. Reach out to us today to secure a free case evaluation to get started.
Overview of Carjacking in Arizona
Arizona doesn’t have a statute that explicitly uses the word carjacking. Instead, allegations involving taking a vehicle from another person by force may be prosecuted under the state’s robbery and vehicle theft laws.
Depending on what allegedly happened, charges could include:
- Armed robbery: A Class 2 felony that involves committing robbery while the defendant or an accomplice is armed with a deadly or simulated deadly weapon, uses or threatens to use a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument, or uses or threatens to use a simulated deadly weapon.
- Aggravated robbery: A Class 3 felony that applies when a robbery is committed with the aid of one or more accomplices who are actually present.
- Theft of means of transportation: This is a Class 3 felony that can apply to certain forms of knowingly controlling another person’s vehicle without lawful authority.
Which charge applies depends on details such as how the vehicle was allegedly taken, whether force or threats were involved, and whether a weapon or an accomplice was present. Our Tucson theft crimes attorneys can review the charges against you and help you understand how Arizona law may apply.
What Are the Penalties for Carjacking in Tucson, Arizona?
Because Arizona does not have a separate carjacking statute, the potential sentence depends on the specific offense charged, whether it is classified as dangerous, and your criminal history. Qualifying prior dangerous felony convictions can substantially increase the applicable sentencing range.
Potential consequences vary and may include:
- Dangerous Class 2 felony: For a first Class 2 felony sentenced as a dangerous offense, the prison range is seven to 21 years.
- Armed robbery sentenced as a dangerous offense: The presumptive sentence for a first dangerous Class 2 felony is 10.5 years in prison.
- Class 3 felony: The applicable sentencing range depends on whether the offense is classified as dangerous, the defendant’s prior convictions, and other sentencing provisions that apply to the case.
- Fines and restitution: A felony conviction may result in substantial fines, and restitution may be ordered when appropriate.
A felony conviction can also have consequences beyond the sentence itself, including problems with employment, housing, and certain civil rights. Because sentencing rules vary considerably based on the specific charge, whether the offense is dangerous, and a defendant’s criminal history, the potential penalties must be evaluated on an individual basis.
Our Tucson carjacking lawyers can help you understand the specific charges you face and the potential sentencing ranges.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested for Carjacking?
Every case is different, but several defenses may be available depending on the charge and evidence.
Several defense strategies may apply to your case depending on the evidence:
- Mistaken Identity: You may challenge the identification if witnesses only had a brief opportunity to see you.
- Lack of Intent: Evidence regarding misunderstandings about permission or ownership disputes can dispute the prosecution’s claims about intent.
- No Weapon or Threat of Force: Contradicting allegations about the presence or threat of a weapon can impact whether armed robbery charges are established.
- Alibi: Presenting evidence like security footage or witness testimony can demonstrate that you were elsewhere when the incident occurred.
The circumstances of the case will determine which defense strategies may apply. That assessment requires looking at the actual charge, the state’s evidence, and your account of what occurred. A Tucson criminal defense lawyer from our firm can assist you in assessing the viability of these defenses and crafting the strongest possible legal strategy for your unique situation.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation Today With Our Tucson Carjacking Attorneys
What people commonly call carjacking can result in several different felony charges in Arizona, and those distinctions matter. Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys has decades of combined experience representing people accused of crimes in Tucson and throughout Southern Arizona.
If an accusation involving a stolen vehicle has put you in unfamiliar legal territory, call us today to schedule a free consultation with a Tucson carjacking lawyer to get a clearer understanding of the road ahead.