Auto Theft Attorney in Lubbock

Former Federal Defender Experience for Your Auto Theft Defense

We defend people accused of taking, keeping, or operating vehicles without the owner’s permission. These cases often turn on details that aren’t clear from an arrest report: how the accused obtained the keys, who controlled the vehicle, what permission was given, and what the parties said to each other.

Auto theft is a common name for the allegation, but Texas may prosecute the conduct as theft of a motor vehicle or unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. Each charge requires proof of different elements. Before answering investigators’ questions or providing access to your phone, get legal advice about how your statements and digital records could affect the case.

Call (806) 370-7800 for a free case review with our auto theft attorney in Lubbock. We can examine the accusation, explain the immediate next steps, and identify facts that may shape your defense.

Texas Theft & Unauthorized Use Are Different Charges

Texas Penal Code Section 31.03 defines theft as unlawfully appropriating property with intent to deprive the owner of it. Intent to deprive generally involves withholding property permanently or long enough that the owner loses a significant part of its value or use. In a vehicle case, prosecutors must prove more than possession or operation.

Texas Penal Code Section 31.07 applies when a person intentionally or knowingly operates another person’s motor-propelled vehicle without effective consent. Effective consent means valid permission from the owner or someone legally authorized to provide it. The statute classifies unauthorized use of a motor vehicle as a state jail felony.

A theft charge and an unauthorized use charge aren’t interchangeable. The filed offense, its classification, and the potential penalties depend on the alleged conduct, the vehicle’s value, the available evidence, prior history, and other circumstances recognized by Texas law.

How Evidence Can Shape an Auto Theft Defense

We begin with the prosecution’s theory: who owned or controlled the vehicle, how the accused gained access, and what evidence supports the required mental state. When the parties had a prior relationship, their history and past agreements may be particularly important. Possession alone doesn’t resolve every question about consent or intent.

Evidence we may evaluate includes:

• Messages and call records: Communications may show permission, limits on use, requests to return the vehicle, or disagreements about what the parties understood.
• Ownership documents: Vehicle ownership and title records, registration documents, rental agreements, loan papers, and purchase records may clarify who had authority over the vehicle.
• Location and access data: Surveillance footage, GPS information, key records, and vehicle access logs may establish who used the vehicle and when.
• Investigative materials: Police reports, body-camera footage, witness accounts, statements, and digital evidence may reveal identification problems or gaps in the alleged timeline.

Defense issues may include effective consent, a mistaken belief that permission existed, lack of intent to deprive, mistaken identity, or insufficient evidence. We also examine how officers connected the accused to the vehicle, obtained statements, collected electronic information, and conducted the investigation.

Criminal Defense Led by Michael King

Attorney Michael King is an experienced defense attorney and former federal defender. He leads our representation of clients facing criminal accusations in Texas state and federal courts, applying his understanding of criminal procedure to each case evaluation.

At King Law, P.C., we develop a strategy based on the filed charge, the evidence, and the client’s circumstances rather than treating every vehicle allegation alike. Our professional conduct and experience have received top ratings on Avvo. During a free case review, you can discuss the accusation and potential defense strategies before deciding how to proceed.

What to Expect During Your Free Case Review

We identify the charge, the current procedural stage, upcoming court obligations, and the evidence available for review. Useful materials may include a complaint or indictment, bond paperwork, police reports, vehicle records, photographs, messages, and documents addressing ownership or permission. If some records aren’t yet available, we can explain what may require further investigation.

Depending on the charge and procedural posture, the next steps may include arraignment, pretrial settings, negotiations, motions, or trial preparation. The path and timing depend on the assigned court, evidence, and legal issues. We can explain the options that apply to your circumstances and build the defense plan around the facts.

Where Auto Theft Cases Proceed in Lubbock County

Criminal cases arising in Lubbock County may proceed in a district court or county court at law, depending on the charge and level of the alleged offense. District courts handle felony criminal matters, while county courts at law hear misdemeanor cases within their jurisdiction. The case assignment determines the judge, hearing schedule, filing requirements, and required court appearances. We prepare clients for these obligations at each stage of the proceedings.

Get Clarity About Your Auto Theft Charge

An arrest, investigation, or filed charge doesn’t reveal every defense that may be available. Our auto theft lawyer in Lubbock can explain what prosecutors must prove, identify records that may affect the case, and advise you about contact with law enforcement and the court. Led by Attorney Michael King, we represent clients in Lubbock and throughout Texas with strategies tailored to the charge and evidence.

Call (806) 370-7800 to schedule your free criminal defense consultation with King Law, P.C..