Fort Worth Fraudulent Transfer of Motor Vehicle Defense Attorney

Experienced Defense Lawyer for Fraudulent Motor Vehicle Transfer Charges in Fort Worth, Texas

Buying, selling, or transferring a car is a major transaction. When someone is accused of fraudulent dealing involving a motor vehicle, the possible penalties can be quite steep. Oftentimes, these cases center around ownership records and receipts, which means a close investigation is crucial. If you have been accused of this offense, be sure to contact a Fort Worth, TX fraudulent transfer of a motor vehicle defense lawyer.

At The Meza Law Firm, PLLC, we can help protect your rights in a case involving a motor vehicle transfer. Attorney Edwardo Meza has over 10 years of proven experience, and he provides trusted guidance in criminal defense cases.

What Is a Fraudulent Transfer of a Motor Vehicle?

A fraudulent transfer of a motor vehicle in Texas happens when someone takes control of another person's car under an agreement to give it to a new party, then handles the transfer in a dishonest or unauthorized way. These cases often involve informal deals where one person agrees to find a buyer, arrange a lease, or have someone take over the payments on a vehicle that still has a loan or lease attached to it.

A person may face this charge in several situations, such as transferring a car to another party without first getting permission in writing from the vehicle's creditor. Charges can also follow when the person transfers or gets rid of the vehicle with the goal of cheating or harming the owner. Refusing to tell the owner or lender where the vehicle is when they ask can also lead to charges.

Under Texas law, a person accused of this offense cannot use the owner's failure to follow the terms of a financing or lease agreement as a defense. Many of these cases begin as payment-takeover arrangements found through online ads or word of mouth that later fall apart.

How Serious Is a Fraudulent Motor Vehicle Transfer Charge in Texas?

A fraudulent motor vehicle transfer charge is a felony in Texas. The level of the charge depends on how much the car is worth. A vehicle worth less than $30,000 can lead to a state jail felony, which carries 180 days to two years in a state jail facility. A vehicle worth $30,000 to less than $150,000 can lead to a third-degree felony, punishable by two to 10 years in prison. Higher-value vehicles can result in second-degree or first-degree felony charges, with possible sentences of up to 20 years or even life in prison. Each felony level also carries a fine of up to $10,000.

A judge can also order restitution with a conviction, requiring repayment of the vehicle's value or the amount owed to the lender. A fraud-related felony on your record can affect your ability to find work, rent a home, or obtain loans in the future.

How We Can Help You Fight Allegations of a Fraudulent Car Transfer

Fighting allegations of a fraudulent car transfer requires a close look at the agreement between the parties and what each person understood. Many of these deals are made informally, with little paperwork and unclear terms. Our attorney can review text messages, emails, online listings, payment records, and title documents to show what was actually agreed upon.

The state must prove the required knowledge or intent behind the transfer. You may not have known the vehicle had a lien, or you may have believed the owner had approval from the lender. In other cases, the transfer may have been a legitimate sale that later ran into problems outside your control. The value of the vehicle can also come into question in your defense, since an inflated value can lead to a more serious charge.

Contact Our Fort Worth Fraudulent Transfer of a Motor Vehicle Defense Lawyer Today

A fraudulent vehicle transfer accusation can bring felony charges over what began as a simple deal. At The Meza Law Firm, PLLC, we work to uncover the full story and protect your future. Call 817-732-6392 or contact our Fort Worth, TX fraudulent transfer of a motor vehicle defense attorney to set up a free consultation.