Recently, a 14-year-old Northumberland youth engaged in a chase with local police in an unauthorized vehicle, leading to juvenile charges. Some people may view "joyriding," or the temporary taking of a vehicle owned by someone else without permission, as a rite of passage. But it is, in fact, a dangerous and illegal activity that can leave a youth with a criminal record or, worse, injured in a car accident.

If you or your child has been charged with Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle or Auto Theft, call the LLF Law Firm at 888-535-3686, or submit your details online and we will contact you. The LLF Law Firm Team will vigorously defend your child's rights and work for their future.

PA Law of Joyriding

There is no specific crime of joyriding under PA law, but the conduct is covered under the statute of Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle. Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle involves the operation of a motor vehicle without the owner's consent. It is a second-degree misdemeanor under 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 3928. Second-degree misdemeanors may involve a fine of up to $5,000 and a prison term of up to 2 years.

The Difference Between Auto Theft and Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle

In PA, motor vehicle theft is a third-degree felony, punishable by up to seven years in prison and a $15,000 fine, regardless of the worth of the car. While both Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle and Auto Theft involve taking a vehicle without permission, the difference between the two crimes lies in the intent of the person taking the vehicle. If the intent is to briefly drive the vehicle and abandon or return it, this is Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle. If the driver intends to keep or sell the vehicle, the action of taking the vehicle is Auto Theft.

The LLF Law Firm Has Experience in the Juvenile System

If a driver significantly under 18 decides to go joyriding, they are likely to be charged in the juvenile system. The goal of Pennsylvania's juvenile justice system is "Balanced and Restorative Justice," as opposed to a punishment-focused type of justice. With the help of the LLF Law Firm, your child will navigate this system and have the best outcome possible. Do not trust your child's future to counsel without significant experience in the juvenile system. The LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team has represented children accused of a wide range of crimes.

LLF Law Firm Can Help

At the LLF Law Firm, we understand the immense impact that juvenile charges can have on youth and their family. We can build an effective defense strategy in order to protect your child's life and future. If you or a loved one is facing charges, contact the LLF Law Firm at 888-535-3686, or submit your details online, and we will contact you.