How to Find Information on the Penalty for Auto Theft in Nevada

Auto theft is big business, and Nevada is certainly not immune to it. Having progressed far beyond its humble beginnings of being perpetrated by thrill-seeking juvenile delinquents, auto theft is now often conducted by large theft rings. These rings strip the cars they steal and sell the parts for hefty sums of money. The newer and nicer the car, the better the price its parts will fetch. If you become the victim of auto theft in Nevada, help yourself get through the investigation and court processes by getting information on the penalty for auto theft in your state.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet access
• Computer
• Telephone

1. Arrange for a consultation with an attorney. Nevada-based attorneys are the most reliable source of accurate information on the penalty for auto theft in that state. You can get help finding a qualified attorney in your area by contacting the American Bar Association (see Resources below).
2. Read about the law and penalties for breaking it at the source. The entire text of the laws of Nevada are online at the Nevada Revised Statutes Web page (see Resources below). Look for Chapter 205, Section 0832, which addresses laws regarding theft in Nevada.
3. Know that whether an instance of auto theft in Nevada is classified as a misdemeanor or a felony depends on the value of the car that was stolen. Stealing a car worth more than $2,500 is the worst level of offense and can net the thief anywhere between 1 year and 10 years in prison.
4. Ask for support. Being the victim of a crime like auto theft is never easy. Help and understanding is available at the National Center for Victims of Crime (see Resources below). Once you have your penalty information in hand, getting personal support for your situation is a great idea.

Tips & Warnings

• Installing a security device on your car can dramatically reduce your chances of becoming the victim of auto theft. Consider a wheel lock, kill switch or electronic tracking tool.
• If you are the victim of auto theft in North Carolina and the person who stole your car is arrested and goes to court, the prosecutor must notify you in writing of the disposition of the case within 30 days of the end of the trial. This notification will be sent to your last known address.
• Only slightly more than half of the cars that are stolen in the United States each year are ever recovered. Be prepared for the eventuality of having to purchase a new car and accept that you may be using a rental or taxis to get around for the time being.