Miami Carjacking Defense Lawyers

A Legal Team to Protect Your Rights in a Carjacking Case

Carjacking is a serious criminal offense under Florida law and is considered a type of robbery that involves taking a motor vehicle directly from another person, often through force, threats, or intimidation. Because this charge usually requires violence or the threat of violence, it is a first-degree felony in Florida, carrying the potential for decades behind bars or even life in prison if a firearm was involved. Additionally, a conviction can permanently affect your record, limit future job opportunities, and disrupt every aspect of your life.

If you or someone you love is facing carjacking charges in Miami, securing experienced legal counsel is crucial. At Hager & Schwartz, P.A., our attorneys are former state prosecutors with over 50 years of combined experience defending individuals accused of serious crimes. We understand how these cases are constructed, and more importantly, how to challenge them.

Contact us to schedule a free consultation.

What Is Considered Carjacking?

Under Florida Statute §812.133, carjacking means forcefully taking a vehicle from someone present, either inside or near the vehicle, using force, violence, assault, or threatening force. This personal confrontation element raises carjacking above ordinary vehicle theft and classifies it as a more serious violent crime under Florida law.

Understanding the difference between carjacking and auto theft (or grand theft auto) is crucial. In a typical auto theft case, the vehicle is taken while unattended, like from a driveway or parking lot. Carjacking, however, involves a direct confrontation with the victim, and that personal encounter, especially when force or intimidation is used, leads to much harsher penalties.

The law also outlines aggravating factors that can escalate the charge. If the alleged offender was armed with a firearm or other deadly weapon, the carjacking becomes an aggravated offense, punishable by life imprisonment in the most severe cases.

Understanding how Florida carjacking laws apply in your situation is key to building an effective defense. Whether you're facing allegations involving the use of force in vehicle theft or simply being investigated, speaking with an experienced attorney early on can make a difference.

Possible Penalties for Carjacking

If you're facing carjacking charges in Miami, it's crucial to understand the severity of these allegations under Florida law. Carjacking is categorized as a first-degree felony, which means it results in some of the strictest penalties in the state’s criminal justice system.

Even when no weapon is involved, a conviction can lead to up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

However, if the accused used or carried a firearm or other deadly weapon, the penalties become much more severe. In those cases, aggravated carjacking in Florida can be punishable by up to life in prison.

Florida’s 10-20-Life statute (Florida Statutes § 775.087) also imposes mandatory minimum sentences for crimes involving firearms:

• Possession of a firearm during the offense: Minimum 10 years in prison
• Discharge of the firearm: Minimum 20 years in prison
• Discharge causing death or serious injury: Minimum 25 years to life

Besides prison time, a conviction can lead to lengthy probation, hefty financial fines, and a permanent felony record, affecting your ability to find a job, get housing, or pursue education.

These penalties show how seriously the state treats violent crimes involving force and stolen vehicles. We know that a conviction's impact goes beyond the courtroom. As former prosecutors, we use our knowledge of how these cases are charged and prosecuted to build strong, targeted defenses that protect your freedom and future.

Common Defenses for Carjacking Charges

When facing felony carjacking charges, the prosecution must prove more than just the theft of a vehicle. They must also show that force, threats, or intimidation were used during the crime. This obligation opens up various defense strategies, depending on the specific details of your case. We take the time to understand every aspect to build a strong defense.

Possible defense strategies for carjacking include:

• Misidentification: Eyewitness testimony can be unreliable, especially in high-stress situations. We challenge any flawed identification procedures used by law enforcement.
• Lack of intent to use force: If there was no threat, violence, or intimidation used during the alleged act, the charge may not meet the legal definition of carjacking.
• No credible evidence or unreliable witnesses: Inconsistencies in witness accounts or a lack of supporting evidence can seriously undermine the prosecution’s case.
• Constitutional violations: If your rights were violated—through an illegal stop, search, or seizure—we may be able to have key evidence suppressed or the case dismissed entirely.

Early action is essential in these situations. The sooner our team can start investigating, the more chances we have to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. As former state prosecutors, we understand how the other side builds their argument, and we use that knowledge to develop targeted, proactive defense strategies aimed at dismantling it before trial.

If you're seeking experienced criminal defense for carjacking in Miami, rely on a legal team that knows the system inside and out. Your future is worth fighting for, and we’re prepared to help.

Get a Free Case Review with a Miami Carjacking Attorney

If you or someone you care about is facing carjacking charges in Miami, time is limited. The earlier you consult a knowledgeable defense attorney, the better your chances of building a strong case and protecting your rights. Acting quickly allows us to start our investigation, challenge the evidence, and seek opportunities to reduce or dismiss charges before the case moves forward.

At Hager & Schwartz, P.A., we know how daunting it can be to face a serious felony charge. But you’re not alone. We’re ready to support you. Backed by more than fifty years of combined experience and a team of former prosecutors, you can trust that your defense is in capable and dedicated hands.

Contact our office to schedule a free, confidential case review with a trusted Miami carjacking attorney.