California Vehicle Code Section 4463: Vehicle Registration Fraud addresses fraudulent activities related to vehicle registration, such as forging or counterfeiting license plates, registration certificates, or stickers.
These offenses undermine the integrity of the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) system and can lead to severe legal penalties, including jail time and hefty fines. Understanding the specifics of this law is crucial for anyone accused of vehicle registration fraud.
A conviction under VC 4463 can lead to years of jail time and thousands of dollars in fines. A Los Angeles DUI lawyer can tell you more about California Vehicle Codes and review potential defenses that can help you face these accusations.
What Actions Lead to VC 4463 Charges?
California Vehicle Code Section 4463 outlines several actions that can lead to charges of vehicle registration fraud. Below are the key behaviors that may result in a violation, along with examples to help clarify the law.
Forging or Falsifying Documents
The law applies to individuals accused of creating counterfeit vehicle registration materials. It includes counterfeiting, forging, or falsifying any of the following:
- License plates
- Vehicle registration certificates
- Smog test certificates
- Registration stickers
Examples include forging a registration sticker to avoid paying renewal fees on a vehicle or falsifying a smog certification to meet California’s strict emissions standards and register a non-compliant car.
Possessing or Displaying Forged Documents
Drivers can also face VC 4463 charges if they are accused of possessing, displaying, or causing someone else to display forged or counterfeit documents. This includes situations where the individual knowingly uses or allows others to use:
- Counterfeit or forged items
- Altered documents, including a certificate of ownership
- Documents that have been suspended, canceled, or revoked
- Blank or incomplete documents
Examples include displaying a counterfeit license plate to evade tolls or registration fees, or lending a vehicle with a fraudulent registration card to another person, knowing it is counterfeit.
Publishing or Passing Off Fraudulent Documents
VC 4463 also applies to individuals accused of publishing or attempting to sell, distribute, or use counterfeit documents while presenting them as genuine.
An example includes selling counterfeit registration cards online and claiming they are valid DMV-issued documents.
The Role of Intent to Defraud
A key element of a VC 4463 charge is intent to defraud. This means the prosecution must prove that the accused knowingly committed the fraudulent act with the purpose of deceiving another party, such as the DMV, law enforcement, or a private individual.
Examples include knowingly using forged smog certificates to register vehicles that do not meet environmental standards or selling counterfeit registration stickers online while fully aware of their invalidity.
Does California Vehicle Code 4463 Cover License Fraud?
California drivers do not face charges under VC 4463 if accused of fraud involving their driver’s license. However, other criminal charges can apply in this situation, including CA Penal Code §148.9 – Providing False ID to a Police Officer.
An attorney can explain these charges and immediately get to work on defense strategies.
Are California Vehicle Code 4463 Charges Serious?
California Vehicle Code Section 4463: Vehicle Registration Fraud accusations can result in misdemeanor or felony charges, making this a serious offense in California.
Drivers charged with a misdemeanor could face a year in county jail and fines of up to $1,000. A felony conviction could result in up to three years in prison and fines of up to $10,000. Additionally, an individual may have to go through a period of probation.
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can also revoke or refuse to renew a driver’s license if it believes an individual committed fraud during the application process.
What Are the Long-Term Consequences of a VC 4463 Conviction?
A conviction under California Vehicle Code Section 4463 can have lasting effects that go beyond immediate penalties like fines, probation, or jail time. In addition to these legal consequences, individuals may experience significant personal, professional, and financial challenges.
One of the most immediate long-term effects is a criminal record. A felony or misdemeanor conviction for vehicle registration fraud will appear in background checks, potentially impacting your ability to secure employment, housing, or professional licenses.
Employers and landlords may view a fraud-related conviction as a red flag, making it harder to move forward after serving your sentence.
Can You Drive Without a License?
Driving without a valid license can lead to additional charges under CA Vehicle Code VC 14601.1 (a) – Driving With a Suspended License. Individuals in California should only operate a vehicle if they have an approved license from the DMV.
Can a Lawyer Beat a VC 4463 Charge?
A criminal defense lawyer may help clients beat California Vehicle Code Section 4463: Vehicle Registration Fraud charges. Several defenses may allow you to handle these charges and avoid the penalties associated with a conviction.
A California criminal defense attorney may show that you had no intent to defraud anyone. If the prosecution cannot prove intent to defraud, the court may dismiss your charges.
Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers can also defend you by showing that the prosecution has insufficient evidence to prove that you committed vehicle registration fraud. In some cases, lawyers can file motions to block evidence to strengthen your defense.
Do You Need to Go to Court After a VC 4463 Arrest?
A lawyer may need to defend you in court after the police accuse you of vehicle registration fraud. However, in some cases, law firms can resolve these charges before you go in front of a judge and jury.
For example, an attorney may help you negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecution, reducing the charges you face. However, a plea bargain requires you to admit fault for another criminal act and still comes with penalties.
In other situations, your lawyer may focus on getting the court to dismiss your charges of falsifying registration cards or other vehicle registration documents. You can discuss all your options with a criminal defense law firm.
VC 4463 Accusations Can Lead to Other Charges
The police sometimes stop drivers because they claim the driver has a questionable license plate, vehicle registration card, or smog certificate. After pulling a driver over, they may accuse a driver of breaking other laws, including those that prohibit drunk driving.
Once the police pull a driver over with reasonable cause, they may look for signs of a CA Vehicle Code 23152 (a) – Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol violation. They may order blood alcohol content (BAC) testing or a field sobriety test.
If the traffic stop results in a DUI arrest, it’s essential to get professional help from a DUI lawyer quickly. DUI charges can have severe repercussions, including fines, jail time, and driving restrictions.
Get Help if You Are Facing Charges Under California Vehicle Code Section 4463: Vehicle Registration Fraud
A Los Angeles DUI lawyer can provide you with more information about California Vehicle Code Section 4463: Vehicle Registration Fraud charges and other criminal offenses. Hiring legal representation can help you address these charges and build your defense.
You can rely on Los Angeles DUI Lawyer to connect you with a local attorney who can help if you end up facing charges for drunk driving. Call today to be connected with a law firm for a free initial consultation.
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