The courts have defined vehicle offenses as a "criminal industry" that has become a national scourge, and explicitly ruled that "severity in sentencing is undoubtedly one of the important and principal means that must be employed in order to fight this affliction" (CrimA 738/98).
Introduction: vehicle offenses as a "national scourge"
The courts have defined vehicle offenses as a "criminal industry" that has become a national scourge, and explicitly ruled that "severity in sentencing is undoubtedly one of the important and principal means that must be employed in order to fight this affliction" (CrimA 738/98). The methods of crime in this field have become more sophisticated over the years, and the courts respond accordingly, with stringent and tangible punishment.
Table of offenses and punishments
- The offense: use of a vehicle without permission and abandonment at the place where it was taken; maximum penalty: 3 years' imprisonment
- The offense: use of a vehicle without permission and abandonment elsewhere; maximum penalty: 5 years' imprisonment
The critical points
Vehicle theft versus unauthorized use, the essential legal difference is the intention to return it. A person who takes a vehicle and transfers it to another place under circumstances indicating an intention not to return it is deemed a thief in every respect, and the punishment is 7 years of imprisonment. A person who drove the vehicle without permission and returned it to the place from which it was taken faces a lesser punishment.
Why is early representation critical?
The fine distinctions between the different offenses, theft versus unauthorized use, mere breaking in versus breaking in with intent to commit a crime, receiving a stolen part versus commercial dealing in stolen parts, each one of them can change the sentencing framework by many years. The version given during the investigation, the circumstances presented to the prosecution, and the defense strategy at the hearing, are what determine which offense the defendant will ultimately be charged with.
Legal representation in vehicle offenses
Israel Arama, formerly of the Tel Aviv District Attorney's Office, represents suspects and defendants in vehicle offenses of all kinds. Familiarity with the prosecution's classification considerations and with the evidentiary weak points in these cases allows for focused and effective action. Contact us for an initial consultation without obligation before giving a statement.
Introduction: Vehicle offenses as a "national scourge" — what is important to know?
The courts have defined vehicle offenses as a "criminal industry" that has become a national scourge, and explicitly ruled that "severity in sentencing is undoubtedly one of the important and principal means that must be employed in order to fight this affliction" (CrimA 738/98). The methods of crime in this field have become more sophisticated over the years, and the courts respond accordingly, with stringent and tangible punishment.
Table of offenses and penalties — what is important to know?
The offense: use of a vehicle without permission and abandonment at the place where it was taken; maximum penalty: 3 years' imprisonment; the offense: use of a vehicle without permission and abandonment elsewhere; maximum penalty: 5 years' imprisonment
The critical points — what is important to know?
Vehicle theft versus unauthorized use, the essential legal difference is the intention to return it. A person who takes a vehicle and transfers it to another place under circumstances indicating an intention not to return it is deemed a thief in every respect, and the punishment is 7 years of imprisonment. A person who drove the vehicle without permission and returned it to the place from which it was taken faces a lesser punishment.
Why is early representation critical?
The fine distinctions between the different offenses, theft versus unauthorized use, mere breaking in versus breaking in with intent to commit a crime, receiving a stolen part versus commercial dealing in stolen parts, each one of them can change the sentencing framework by many years. The version given during the investigation, the circumstances presented to the prosecution, and the defense strategy at the hearing, are what determine which offense the defendant will ultimately be charged with.
This information is for initial orientation about the service and contact process. It is not individual legal advice.
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