Things You'll Need:
- Connection to the Internet
- Computer
- Telephone
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Step 1
Reach out to an attorney if you are accused of auto theft. Many offer free consultations for the purpose of answering legal questions such as those regarding the penalty for auto theft in Texas. Find an attorney specializing in criminal law by contacting the American Bar Association for a referral (see Resources below).
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Step 2
Read the Texas Statutes. The Statutes comprise the entire legal code of Texas. Find the Statutes online and look under the section titled “Penal Code, Title 7, Chapter 31” for information on the penalty for auto theft in Texas (see Resources below).
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Step 3
Understand that in Texas, auto theft is classified as a state jail felony.
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Step 4
Know that in Texas, state jail felonies carry penalties of between 6 months and 2 years in a state jail. However, if a deadly weapon is used in committing the crime or if the crime is a repeat offense, the jail time could be longer.
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Step 5
Consult a victim's advocate group. As a victim of a crime, you have rights and resources available to help you through this difficult time. After you get the legal information you want, take some time to contact the National Center for Victims of Crime to find out what help is available to you (see Resources below).







