Criminal Defense Lawyers

Carjacking is a Strike Offense in California

First, it’s important to understand that carjacking is a “strike” offense under California’s Three Strikes sentencing law. This means:

• A first conviction counts as a “strike” on your record
• A second strike conviction leads to a doubled sentence
• A third strike can result in a mandatory 25-years-to-life prison term

So right off the bat, carjacking convictions put you in a precarious position for future offenses. The stakes are extremely high.

Sentencing for Carjacking in California

Even for a first offense, carjacking penalties are severe in California. Without any enhancements, a carjacking conviction carries:

• 3, 5, or 9 years in California state prison
• A fine of up to $10,000
• Restitution to the victim(s)

The exact prison sentence within that range depends on the specifics of the case and the defendant’s prior criminal record. But those “base” penalties are just the starting point.

Sentencing Enhancements That Add Prison Time

In many carjacking cases, additional sentencing enhancements can significantly increase the prison term. Common factors that trigger extra time include:

• Using a gun: 10 years for using a gun, 20 years for firing it, and 25-to-life for causing great bodily injury or death with it
• Causing great bodily injury: 3 to 6 additional years
• Carjacking for the benefit of a gang: 15 years to life in prison
• Prior felony convictions: Varies based on Three Strikes law

As you can see, it doesn’t take much for a carjacking sentence to escalate to decades behind bars, or even life in prison. And remember, any prison sentence is in addition to hefty fines and restitution.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

Average Carjacking Sentences

While the theoretical maximum sentences for carjacking are terrifying, what matters most is the realistic penalties in actual cases. So what do the numbers show?According to the D.C. Sentencing Commission, between 2016-2020:

• 97% of carjacking convictions resulted in a prison sentence
• The average prison sentence for armed carjacking was 180 months (15 years)
• The average prison sentence for unarmed carjacking was 87 months (7.25 years)

As these stats reveal, multi-year prison terms are the norm—not the exception—for carjacking. Even unarmed carjacking typically leads to 7+ years behind bars. With a gun involved, 15 years is the average.

How Our Carjacking Defense Lawyers Can Help

Facing the possibility of a decade or more in prison is terrifying. But with an aggressive defense strategy, it may be possible to avoid a carjacking conviction or minimize the sentence. That’s where our battle-tested carjacking defense attorneys can make all the difference.We have a track record of success fighting carjacking charges in California and beyond. Our proven defense strategies include:

• Challenging unlawful searches and seizures to get evidence thrown out
• Asserting mistaken identity and presenting alibi evidence
• Negotiating for reduced charges, such as grand theft auto
• Fighting for alternative sentences, like probation or house arrest
• Arguing for the low-end of the sentencing range

No two cases are quite the same, so we’ll craft a tailored defense based on the unique facts of your case. Our goal is always to pursue the most favorable outcome possible, whether that’s an acquittal, dismissal, favorable plea deal, or mitigated sentence.

Get a Free Consultation with Our Carjacking Defense Lawyers Today

If you’ve been accused of carjacking, every day counts when your freedom is on the line. Don’t wait to start building your defense. Contact the Spodek Law Group today for a free and confidential consultation.With our battle-tested carjacking defense lawyers in your corner, you’ll be in the best position to fight the charges and protect your future. We’re here 24/7 to take your call and start mapping out your defense strategy. Call us now at 212-300-5196 or visit us online at https://www.federallawyers.com to schedule your free consultation.Remember – carjacking charges are serious, but you don’t have to face them alone. Let our experienced criminal defense attorneys even the odds and fight for your rights. Contact us today to get started.