WobblerCalifornia · Vehicle Code § 10851
Vehicle Theft / Joyriding
Taking or driving someone's car without permission.
Can be charged as a felony OR a misdemeanor.
What the prosecutor must prove
They must prove every one of these. If one is missing, you should not be found guilty.
- 1You took or drove a car
- 2Without the owner's permission
- 3You meant to keep it even for a short time
Possible punishment
Misdemeanor: up to 1 year jail. Felony: 16 months, 2, or 3 years.
