Minneapolis Auto Theft Attorney

Facing Vehicle Theft Charges & Unsure What Comes Next?

Being arrested or charged with auto theft in Minnesota can turn your life upside down in a matter of hours. You may be worried about jail, a permanent felony record, and how this will affect your job and family. You do not have to face these fears alone.

At Tamburino Law Group, we defend people accused of auto and vehicle theft in the Minneapolis area. Since 1983, our criminal defense team has represented thousands of clients in Minnesota courts. With more than 100 years of combined legal experience, we are ready to step in quickly and guide you through every stage of your case.

Our attorneys are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, because we know an arrest does not wait for business hours. When you call, you can speak with us about what happened, what you are facing, and how we can help protect your future.

Contact us today at (612) 444-5020 to schedule a free consultation.

What Is Considered Auto Theft?

Under Minnesota law, auto theft is generally charged as motor vehicle theft, but the scope of the offense is broader than many people realize. Auto theft does not always require permanently stealing a car. In many cases, individuals are charged even when there was no intent to keep the vehicle.

Auto theft in Minnesota may include:

• Stealing a motor vehicle outright
• Taking or driving a vehicle without the owner’s consent
• Possessing a stolen vehicle
• Aiding or abetting another person in stealing a vehicle
• Altering or removing vehicle identification numbers (VINs)
• Using fraud or deception to obtain a vehicle

Even “borrowing” a vehicle without permission can result in criminal charges. Because the law is broad and the penalties are severe, speaking with our Minneapolis auto theft lawyer as early as possible can make a significant difference in your case.

Penalties for Auto Theft in Minnesota

Auto theft charges in Minnesota can be classified as misdemeanors, gross misdemeanors, or felonies, depending on the circumstances of the case. Prosecutors consider factors such as the value of the vehicle, prior criminal history, and whether force or damage was involved.

Potential penalties may include:

Misdemeanor auto theft:

• Up to 90 days in jail
• Fines up to $1,000

Gross misdemeanor auto theft:

• Up to 1 year in jail
• Fines up to $3,000

Felony auto theft:

• Up to 5 years in prison
• Fines up to $10,000

In addition to criminal penalties, a conviction may result in restitution to the vehicle owner, loss of driving privileges, higher insurance premiums, and a permanent criminal record.

Legal Defense to Auto Theft

Every auto theft case is unique, and a strong defense depends on the specific facts involved. At Tamburino Law Group, we carefully analyze the prosecution’s evidence and identify weaknesses that can be used to your advantage.

Common auto theft defenses include:

• Lack of intent: The prosecution must prove intent to steal. Misunderstandings, permission disputes, or temporary use may undermine this element.
• Mistaken identity: Auto theft cases often rely on surveillance footage or witness statements, which can be unreliable.
• Insufficient evidence: If the state cannot prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt, charges may be reduced or dismissed.
• Illegal search or seizure: Evidence obtained in violation of your constitutional rights may be suppressed.
• False accusations: Disputes between acquaintances or family members can lead to exaggerated or unfounded claims.

Our Minneapolis auto theft attorney will tailor a defense strategy designed to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future.

Auto Theft FAQs

Is auto theft always a felony in Minnesota?

No. Auto theft can be charged as a misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, or felony depending on the facts of the case, the value of the vehicle, and prior convictions.

Can I be charged if I didn’t steal the car myself?

Yes. Possessing a stolen vehicle or helping someone else commit auto theft can lead to criminal charges.

What if I had permission to use the vehicle?

Permission is a critical issue. If the owner consented—or if consent was reasonably believed—you may have a strong defense. Our Minneapolis auto theft attorney can help present this effectively.

Will an auto theft conviction stay on my record?

A conviction can remain on your criminal record permanently, though expungement may be possible in some cases. Avoiding a conviction in the first place is often the best option.

Should I talk to police if I’m accused of auto theft?

It is usually best to speak with an attorney before making any statements. Anything you say can be used against you later.

Why Choose Our Auto Theft Team

If you are searching for an auto theft lawyer in Minneapolis, you likely feel a mix of fear and urgency. The stakes are high, and you want to know that the people standing beside you in court have handled serious criminal cases before. That is where our depth of experience becomes critical.

Founding partner Joseph Tamburino is Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Minnesota State Bar. Only a small percentage of attorneys in the state hold this credential, and it reflects years of focused work in criminal defense. Our firm includes attorneys who have served as prosecutors and public defenders, which means we understand how both sides think and how charging and plea decisions are often made.

Collectively, our attorneys have tried hundreds of jury cases, and Mr. Tamburino alone has handled more than 100 jury trials. We have represented thousands of clients facing serious felony charges, including theft and property crimes. This level of trial and courtroom experience gives us the confidence to challenge the prosecution’s case and to prepare for trial when that serves a client’s interests.

Our work has been recognized across the Minnesota legal community. Members of our team have been selected for Super Lawyers and Rising Stars, have earned AV Preeminent ratings from Martindale Hubbell, and have been included in The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Trial Lawyers. Mr. Tamburino has also been honored with the Minnesota Icon Award for lifetime achievement and is frequently sought by local media for legal analysis. For you, these recognitions mean you are working with a firm that other lawyers and legal organizations respect.

Clients also choose us because of how we treat them throughout the process. We are known for straightforward communication, realistic advice, and a non-judgmental approach. From the first call, our goal is to listen carefully, explain your options in plain language, and work with you to build a strategy that fits your situation.

Call (612) 444-5020 now to speak with our team about your case.