Chicago Vehicular Hijacking Lawyers

If you have been charged with vehicular hijacking, you should not wait to retain a reliable attorney like ours at Weinberg & Miceli. Led by Attorney Steven J. Weinberg, our team leverages 40+ years of experience to fight for clients’ rights and futures in high-stakes criminal cases. We have successfully handled cases in state and federal courts, often achieving favorable outcomes. Our efforts have allowed us to earn the confidence of numerous clients, as evidenced by Attorney Weinberg’s 9.6 Superb Avvo Rating. Request a consultation to discuss your situation, the charges against you, and how our Chicago vehicular hijacking lawyers can come to your defense. 

Start with Weinberg & Miceli by calling (312) 436-0711 or contacting us online. From Chicago, our firm represents clients across Cook County and the surrounding areas.

What Is Vehicular Hijacking Under Illinois Law?

Illinois law defines vehicular hijacking as the act of knowingly taking another person’s motor vehicle by use or threat of force. The law governing vehicular hijacking is codified in 720 ILCS 5/18-3 of the Illinois Criminal Code. This offense becomes aggravated vehicular hijacking when specific criteria are met, such as the use of a firearm, causing physical harm, or targeting victims who are minors or senior citizens.

Vehicular hijacking is a felony and considered a violent crime. As such, Illinois courts prosecute them aggressively. Even individuals with no prior criminal record can face significant legal penalties if convicted.

The Penalties for Vehicular Hijacking

The penalties for vehicular hijacking in Illinois are severe and can leave lasting effects on a person’s life.

The penalties for vehicular hijacking (a Class 1 felony) include:

• Prison terms ranging from 4 to 15 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections
• Fines of $25,000 or more

For aggravated vehicular hijacking (a Class X felony), the penalties increase. Using or possessing a weapon while committing this offense can add years and even decades to a court’s prison sentence. The same applies to committing this offense against someone under 16 or over 60. 

Beyond prison sentences and fines, those convicted of any type of vehicular hijacking may face collateral consequences, including loss of employment opportunities, damaged personal relationships, and a permanent criminal record. 

Defenses Against Vehicular Hijacking Charges

Our Chicago vehicular hijacking attorneys can employ several defense strategies to challenge evidence, highlight law enforcement missteps, and assert a client’s innocence. 

These include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Mistaken identity - Eyewitness misidentification is a common issue in vehicular hijacking cases. Our attorneys can challenge the accuracy and reliability of witness accounts.
• Lack of force or threat - For a hijacking claim to stand, prosecutors must prove that force or a threat was used. If this element is missing, we can argue for dismissal or reduction of charges.
• Coercion or duress - If the accused was forced to participate in the crime against their will, this defense may apply.
• Insufficient evidence - We will thoroughly review all evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, such as lack of physical evidence or unreliable testimony.
• Violation of constitutional rights - If law enforcement violated the defendant’s rights during investigation or arrest, motions can be filed to suppress improperly obtained evidence.