Michigan VIN Tampering | Vehicle Identification Number Tampering Defense Attorneys
Expert Michigan Criminal Defense
Do you need help with a Michigan VIN tampering charge?  The team of trial lawyers at The Kronzek Firm PLC, has about 100 years of combined criminal defense experience. We have handled many VIN tampering and vehicle related crimes.  We have a wide range of  criminal defense experience and legal knowledge. You owe it to yourself to consult with one of our criminal defense team members.  All of our attorneys are seasoned and accomplished trial lawyers.
What is a VIN?
The automotive industry uses a vehicle identification numberâusually abbreviated as VINâto identify different types of motor vehicles. This number is a unique code including a serial number which identifies an specific automobile.
What is concealing or misrepresenting the identity of a motor vehicle?
Misdemeanor VIN Tampering
If a person conceals, misrepresents, or removes a manufacturerâs serial number without the intent to mislead others about the identity of a vehicle, then he or she may be charged with a misdemeanor.
Felony VIN Tampering
When a person intends to mislead another about the identity of a vehicle or a part of it and removes or defaces the manufacturer serial number or replaces the part as result, this is classified as a felony.  A conviction carries a maximum penalty of 4 years in prison, a fine up to $10,000.00, or both. For licensed dealers or repair facility, its licensed would be revoked.  If the individual committing the act is a licensed dealer, then the dealerâs license will be revoked.
Regarding any prosecution for this crime, possession of a vehicle or mechanical device where the manufacturerâs serial number or engine number is defaced, removed, replaced, or altered is considered evidence of proof of a violation.
In such cases where the identifying information has been removed and the identity of the car or device cannot be determined, the item is subject to confiscation by the state to be sold at public auction, put to government use, or turned into scrap. If the goods are taken from a licensed vehicle dealer, that dealerâs license will be subject to revocation.
In addition, it is prohibited to buy, possess, deliver, or to offer to buy, sell, or exchange any vehicle identification number (VIN) plate, antitheft label, federal safety certification label, secretary of state (SOS) vehicle identification label, posident die stamps, rosette rivets, or any copies of such. However, this does not apply to vehicle manufacturers, vehicle part suppliers to manufacturers, or law enforcement officers as part of their official duties.
A person cannot receive, buy, or obtain a motor vehicle or related parts with intent to buy, sell, or dispose of the items knowing that the identification numbers have been removed, tampered with, or altered. Yet, this does not apply if the vehicle is obtained from or at the direction of a police agency. Individuals in violation may be charged with a felony with a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, a fine up to $20,000.00, or both.
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Instead of just picking the first name in the telephone directory, or settling for an attorney with an unknown track record, consider hiring a premium law firm with a strong reputation that is ready to fight for you. We strive for excellence in everything we do. For immediate help, contact us today at  (866) 766-5245.