Theft of a Motor Vehicle Attorney in Port Orchard

Your Local Team for Auto Theft Defense

When you face an auto theft charge, having a knowledgeable theft of a motor vehicle lawyer in Port Orchard can make a difference. The Law Office of Stan Glisson brings over 20 years of criminal defense experience to clients across Kitsap County. 

We know the nuances of Washington courts and how local proceedings move, so you never have to navigate the process alone. You’ll receive regular updates, detailed guidance, and clear answers every step of the way. That personal commitment gives you clarity and reassurance.

Many clients choose us because we have longstanding relationships with Kitsap County’s legal community and understand how prosecutors approach these cases. We tailor our guidance and strategies to Port Orchard’s unique legal environment, so you feel equipped and supported from our first conversation through each court appearance.

Secure the strategic defense of a dedicated theft of a motor vehicle attorney in Port Orchard immediately. We offer affordable services and free consultations. Call Glisson Legal at (360) 526-8191 or reach out online now.

Understanding Theft of a Motor Vehicle Laws in Washington

In Washington, Theft of a Motor Vehicle, commonly referred to as Auto Theft, is prosecuted under the state’s general theft statutes, but specifically elevated due to the nature of the property.

Felony Classification 

Theft of a Motor Vehicle (RCW 9A.56.060) is classified as a Class B Felony in Washington State.

• Penalty: Punishable by up to 10 years in state prison and a fine of up to $20,000.

Related Charge: Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle

Prosecutors often charge defendants with both Theft of a Motor Vehicle and Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle (PSMV). The PSMV charge is a Class C Felony (up to 5 years in prison) and requires the State to prove only that you knowingly possessed the vehicle. A skilled Port Orchard theft of a motor vehicle lawyer often fights to prevent the State from proving the higher-level Theft charge.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of an Auto Theft Conviction in Port Orchard

The consequences of a felony theft in Washington State are severe, impacting your liberty and future opportunities.

Direct Criminal Penalties

• High Sentence Range: Sentencing is determined by the seriousness of the offense and your criminal history score, utilizing the Washington Sentencing Grid. A Class B Felony conviction often results in a significant period of incarceration.
• Mandatory Fines: The fines can reach up to $20,000.
• Restitution: You will be ordered to pay full restitution to the victim for any damage caused to the vehicle, regardless of whether you personally caused the damage.

Collateral Consequences

• Felony Record: A permanent felony record severely limits employment, professional licensing, and educational opportunities.
• Firearm Rights: A Class B felony conviction results in a permanent loss of the right to own or possess firearms.
• Insurance Rates: A conviction for theft of a motor vehicle in Port Orchard cases will drastically increase your vehicle insurance rates, if you can obtain coverage at all.

The Kitsap County Criminal Defense Process for Theft of a Motor Vehicle

The defense process for auto theft in Kitsap County requires immediate investigation into the circumstances of the vehicle's recovery. We guide you through the process in the Kitsap County Superior Court.

• Challenging the Initial Stop (Fourth Amendment): Many auto theft arrests originate from a traffic stop. We immediately scrutinize the stop to ensure the officer had reasonable suspicion to pull you over. If the stop was illegal, we file a Motion to Suppress, which can exclude all subsequently gathered evidence, including statements and fingerprints.
• Disproving Intent: Our firm gathers evidence—such as testimony from friends, GPS data, or text messages—to prove your intent was merely temporary use, not permanent deprivation. This is key to arguing for the reduced charge of Taking a Motor Vehicle Without Permission.
• Negotiation and Alternatives: We leverage the weaknesses we find to negotiate with the Kitsap County prosecutor, seeking a plea to the lesser charge (PSMV or Theft 3) or entry into Drug Court or other therapeutic court options if the underlying issue is addiction.
• Trial Strategy: If the State insists on the full Class B Felony, we are prepared to take your case to trial, asserting that the State cannot meet its burden of proving your intent to permanently deprive the owner of the vehicle.

How Our Approach Protects You

Theft of a motor vehicle defense requires careful attention to evidence, procedure, and local norms. We begin each case by reviewing every detail and listening to your perspective. Our team stays in close contact, so you always understand the status of your case and upcoming steps. We challenge questionable evidence and pay close attention to procedural details, always prioritizing your rights and future.

In many Washington auto theft cases, prosecutors rely on witness statements, digital records, or physical evidence. Our approach considers all possible factors, including how these elements play out in Kitsap County courts. We don’t just focus on the law—we look at how local judges and prosecuting attorneys interpret these cases. Our years of hands-on courtroom defense allow us to prepare you for real conversations and scenarios you may face along the way.

Here’s what you gain when working with our Port Orchard legal team:

• Personalized legal advice: We offer clear explanations for every step, so you are never caught off guard.
• Prompt, transparent updates: You stay informed and involved, with answers to your questions when you need them.
• Defense rooted in local courtroom experience: We advocate for you with a practical understanding of Kitsap County’s courts and community standards.