While everyone has heard of grand theft auto, aka GTA, (no doubt partially due to the successful video game franchise), joyriding is a much more commonly filed criminal offense in California. Prosecutors prefer to file joyriding charges, legally known as the unlawful taking or driving of a vehicle under California Vehicle Code section 10851 (VC), […]
Can You Lose Your License for Life in California?
Many crimes can result in a temporary license suspension, including drunk driving, certain juvenile crimes, violating the implied consent law, reckless driving, joyriding, and more. Most people don’t know that some offenses can also result in a lifetime license revocation of your Class A, B, or C licenses, meaning you lose this type of driver’s license forever in California. If you […]
Grand Theft Auto Charges in Vista, California: Penal Code 487(d)(1) (PC)
If you steal a car in California, you could face a grand theft auto charge (GTA) under Penal Code 487(d)(1) (PC), but you will more likely be charged with unlawful driving or taking of a vehicle, commonly known as “joyriding.” These charges are easier for the prosecution to prove and carry the same penalties, so […]
If You Return Someone’s Property, Can You Avoid Criminal Charges?
As a child, everyone learns that borrowing without asking and borrowing without returning an item are both considered stealing the item from the owner. But from a legal perspective, things aren’t so clear cut. That’s because California’s theft laws require someone to intend to either permanently take an item or at least take it long […]
The Crimes of Ferris Bueller: Don’t Follow Ferris If You Want to Stay Out of Jail
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is a classic movie that reminds everyone that “life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” And while it’s important to take a break from your hectic life every now and again, you’re a lot better off not directly following […]
