Don’t think that a simple act of keying a car is just a minor mischief. A single scratch to a car costs hundreds or even thousands of dollars to fix. And this act could even lead to criminal charges. Keying a car is considered an act of vandalism because you are damaging someone else’s property using a key or any other sharp object. Whether it is your first offense or not, you are subject to a sentence of being sent to jail.
So how long can you go to jail for keying a car ?
Learn what the law says about keying a car and how you can stay out of trouble.
Understanding Vandalism Laws
Inquire about what the law says about damage. Vandalism means purposely damaging someone else’s property, like when you key someone’s car.
If you know the laws about vandalism, you’ll know that keying a car is wrong. It is theft to take someone else’s car keys, but it is vandalism when the intent is to damage their property.
Most cases are done by minors and this can be quite stressful not just for the defendant, but more so for their guardians. Juvenile delinquency attorney Brad Phillips says juvenile cases are tried differently from adults because they are typically not considered completely responsible for their actions.
In other places, this illegal behavior may get fined a lot. While others consider it a criminal case.
If you are charged with vandalism, it is recommended that you hire a lawyer.
Factors Influencing Penalties
A lot of factors govern the kinds of penalties that might come your way, and knowledge of these can help you go through the legal landscape.
The extent of the damage is relevant; a car needing expensive repairs will be met with harsher penalties. The record would matter; if you have a prior history of vandalism, it could weigh against you.
The setting of the event may also affect the case if it was during a fight. They almost entirely depend on state law; while in some cities, these acts might be misdemeanors, elsewhere, they might be considered felonies.
Knowing these can prepare you for the repercussions and help you decide on what to do from now on.
Potential Legal Consequences
Keying a car can result in serious legal consequences you probably have never thought about.
In some states, this could be considered criminal damage or vandalism. If the damage is more than the minimum required by law, you may be charged with a crime and go to jail.
Misdemeanors alone are subject to cash fines, community service, or short jail terms; criminal records may even prevent you from getting future employment or housing.
You can be required to pay for its repair, and any filing of claims only complicates matters. Before trying to key someone’s car, consider those long-term repercussions. It’s just not worth it.
The Role of Restitution
Keying a car may be considered petty vandalism by most, but it will be costly to a victim. If apprehended, you might be ordered to pay restitution to the car owner, effectively making you pay for the repairs and for the car’s diminished value.
Depending on the damage, you can easily pay thousands of dollars. You need to know that this payment is to set the victim back on their feet, driving home just how serious your wrongdoings were.
Big money aside, big threats of jail time could end up confronting you.
Seeking Legal Advice
Protecting yourself adequately while risking jail time for keying a car is the greatest first step to take when getting legal advice. Your attorney will explain to you your rights and the consequences you are facing.
They’ll assess your case, considering factors like intent and prior record. With their expertise, you can traverse the legal system more effectively.
Your attorney can represent you in negotiations in the hopes of reducing charges or penalties. They will explain how restitution and other considerations may impact your case.
Never underappreciate how important it is to acquire legal support. By getting a proper lawyer, you might prevent a stiffer sentence.
