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Grand Theft Auto Protecting Your Rights & Defending Your Future

Grand Theft Auto Defense Attorneys in St. Louis

Providing Representation to Individuals Facing Criminal Offenses

The state of Missouri takes theft seriously. However, if you are facing a criminal charge for grand theft auto, you have options to strengthen your case and protect your rights.

Our attorneys at The Hammer Law Firm, LLC are committed to giving St. Louis residents facing charges a fair fighting chance in court. We understand that this is your future on the line and will advocate for you against the prosecution as we have done for myriad clients facing similar charges. With skill seasoned by more than 60 years of experience, we will help shield you from the ramifications of a criminal conviction.

Don’t wait any longer. Call the renowned team of lawyers at The Hammer Law Firm, LLC at (314) 334-3807.

What Is Grand Theft Auto?

In Missouri, grand theft auto (or vehicle tampering) is when one individual takes another individual’s vehicle without their consent. This may seem straightforward and easy to prove, but prosecutors often have a difficult time winning these claims because they must establish four different elements in a court of law:

  • Appropriation of a motor vehicle: In other words, it must be proved that the defendant did indeed take the car in the first place.
  • Another owned the vehicle: It must be established that the vehicle did not belong to the defendant in a major capacity when they took it.
  • Acted with the intent to deprive the owner of the vehicle: The prosecutor must prove that the defendant had no intention of returning the vehicle to the owner, which includes if they intended to sell the vehicle. Otherwise, the crime might be considered a joyride instead of grand theft auto.
  • Did not have consent to take the vehicle: As mentioned, there must be evidence that the defendant acted without the consent of the vehicle owner. Just as with other circumstances, consent cannot truly be obtained through deceit and/or coercion.

Please note that if violence or the threat of violence was involved, then it will be considered carjacking, not grand theft auto.

What Are the Legal Consequences?

Missouri law classifies the theft of an automobile as a class C felony, which can carry a fine of up to $5,000, one year in jail, or both. It may also be punishable by up to seven years in prison.

If convicted, you will also be stripped of some of your constitutional rights. You will not be able to practice your right to vote until your sentence, including any time spent on probation or parole, is fully complete. Similarly, you will not be allowed to bear arms unless your conviction is expunged by the state.

Unfortunately, a conviction for grand theft auto can also have negative impacts on your personal relations and career path. After serving a sentence, formerly incarcerated individuals are often met with stigma and have a difficult time finding work due to their record. They may face judgment from family and friends, as well.

Protect Your Future. Hire a Lawyer.

The Hammer Law Firm, LLC is home to a team of dedicated defense attorneys who have advocated for those facing charges in over 100 criminal jury trials, contested hearings, and bench trials. As former prosecutors, we have in-depth knowledge of the techniques that the prosecution may try to use against you; we can help fight back against these tricks of the trade. Safeguard your future. Put a competent legal team in your corner.

Contact The Hammer Law Firm, LLC online to discuss a grand theft auto case with an acclaimed St. Louis attorney.

client testimonials

At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

    "Help and support through every step of the process..."

    Growing up often has painful mistakes, as my son can attest to! Mark and Nicole were both sympathetic and supportive as they ...

    - D.S.
    "Thank God for Mark Hammer"

    I cannot begin to explain in words how thankful I am that I contacted the Hammer Law Firm when I found myself facing criminal legal charges. I and my family will always be grateful beyond words for the role that Mark Hammer and The Hammer Law Firm played i

    - Former Client
    "Mark and Nicole are the best law firm partners ever."

    They are professional, courteous, and respectful to both the courts and their clients. This team of professionals is not in business just for the money, they are truly out to help their clients.

    - C.E.
    "He is a gentleman, exudes confidence and relieves stress with his truth."

    After a thorough review, Mark began to address every legal issue confronting our son, he had already done his homework, which began to bring sanity back into our family as we sat there.

    - Ken
    "Phenomenal Experience!!"

    We contacted Mark Hammer for help with our son. Mark was truly amazing! He worked hard for our son, was always a text or phone call away, and we could not have asked (or predicted) a better outcome! Absolutely in awe of him.

    - D.C.
    "You don't know how much of a blessing you are to us"

    Thank you so much, Nicole. I have faith and believe everything that's happening is for a reason. I know everything will be fine and I believe you are going to do everything you can and I'm very grateful for it.

    - C.G.
    "I could not have imagined getting through this difficult and uncertain time without the help of the Hammer Law Firm."

    I absolutely recommend Mark and Nicole to anyone who is needing more than a lawyer, but people who do genuinely care about you and who want to get the best possible outcome to get you through this difficult time.

    - E.M.
    "I have never met such dedicated attorneys that work so hard for the truth to come out at the trial."

    I just wanted to thank you again for your compassion, kindness, and support given to my family throughout this ordeal.  I thank the Hammer Law Firm for not only giving my son his life back but his family as well.

    - Former Client

WHY TRUST OUR ST. LOUIS CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAW FIRM?

What Makes Us Different
  • One-On-One Attention
    We work directly with you to determine the best possible outcome based on your goals and needs. We then create personalized legal strategies to set your case up for success.
  • Accessibility & Availability
    Our attorneys pride ourselves on always being available to address any questions you have regarding your case. With our team, you aren't just a number.
  • Unique Legal Insight
    As former prosecutors who know how the 'other side' operates, we have a unique insight that allows us to set our client's cases up for success.
  • Experienced Legal Counsel
    The Hammer Law Firm, LLC team has more than 60 years of combined criminal law experience. We have the tools, knowledge, and resources to effectively advocate on your behalf.
protecting You & Your Future Former Prosecutors With Over 60 Years of Combined Experience

When you want personal support and proven representation, you need to bring The Hammer Law Firm, LLC to the fight.