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© 2023 by Thornton Criminal Defense, PLLC. 

Atascosa County Criminal Defense Attorney

San Antonio Office:

111 Soledad, Suite 401

San Antonio, Texas 78205

Tel: 210-439-5627

Atascosa Office:

216 N Bryant St

Pleasanton, Texas 78064

FORMER CHIEF PROSECUTOR

PERSONALIZED ATTENTION TO YOUR CASE

NO HOURLY RATES, ALWAYS A FLAT FEE

CLIENT CENTERED APPROACH TO YOUR CASE

BOARD CERTIFIED IN CRIMINAL LAW 

OVER A DECADE OF EXPERIENCE IN CRIMINAL LAW

WHY HIRE THORNTON CRIMINAL DEFENSE?

Attorney Brad Thornton is a highly experienced and Board-Certified criminal defense lawyer. With his background as a former Chief Prosecutor, he has a unique understanding of the criminal justice system and is able to provide comprehensive and effective representation to his clients. He is also deeply committed to ensuring that all individuals receive fair treatment in court, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Brad Thornton is dedicated to helping his clients achieve the best possible outcome for their case, whether it is in San Antonio or elsewhere in South Texas. He recognizes the stress and anxiety that can come with being accused of a crime, and approaches his clients with compassion while keeping them informed at every step of the process. His knowledge and experience make him a strong advocate for his clients.

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Arrested for UUMV in San Antonio, Texas

Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle (UUMV)

Texas Penal Code § 31.07 - UNAUTH USE VEH

Less than .008% of lawyers are Board Certified in Criminal Law. Click below to find out what that means and why hiring a Board Certified attorney is the only was to make sure you are getting a lawyer with the experience to handle your case.

UUMV Attorney in San Antonio, Texas


In Texas, the criminal offense of Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle (UUMV) is defined in Section 31.07 of the Texas Penal Code. This offense occurs when an individual intentionally or knowingly operates a motor vehicle without the consent of the owner.


UUMV is a serious crime in Texas and is considered a state jail felony. If convicted, an individual could face up to two years in state jail and a fine of up to $10,000.


There are several factors that can contribute to the severity of the charges and potential penalties for UUMV. For example, if the individual used the vehicle in the commission of another crime (such as robbery or burglary), the charges and penalties may be more severe. Additionally, if the individual has previously been convicted of UUMV or a similar offense, the penalties for a subsequent offense may be more severe.


If you have been charged with UUMV in Texas, it is important to seek the guidance of an experienced criminal defense attorney. An attorney can help you understand the charges against you and the potential defenses available to you and can represent you in court to ensure that your rights are protected.

What is the Difference Between UUMV and Theft in Texas


The state legislature created the offense of Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle (UUMV) in order to criminalize the act of taking and operating a motor vehicle without the owner's consent. This offense was created to protect the property rights of vehicle owners and to deter individuals from taking vehicles without permission.


UUMV is distinct from the crime of theft in Texas. Under Texas law, theft occurs when an individual unlawfully appropriates property with the intent to deprive the owner of the property. In contrast, UUMV does not require an intent to permanently deprive the owner of the vehicle. Instead, it only requires that the individual intentionally or knowingly operated the vehicle without the owner's consent.


In other words, UUMV is a specific type of theft that involves the unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, while theft can involve the unlawful appropriation of any type of property. The specific charges and penalties that an individual may face will depend on the specific circumstances of the case and the value of the property involved.

Punishment Ranges

Level of Offense

Potential Incarceration

Potential Fine

First-degree Felony

Second-degree Felony

Third-degree Felony

State Jail Felony

Class A Misdemeanor

Class B Misdemeanor

2 - 10 years in prison

180 days - 2 years in jail

Up to 1 year in jail

Up to 180 days in jail

2 - 20 years in prison

5 - 99 years in prison

Up to $10,000

Up to $10,000

Up to $10,000

Up to $10,000

Up to $4,000

Up to $2,000