Navigating VC 4463 and Protecting Your Rights

In California, maintaining the integrity of vehicle registration is vital to road safety and lawful operation. However, recent incidents like the one reported in The Los Angeles Times shed light on the prevalence of registration sticker fraud. The law addressing this concern is California Vehicle Code 4463 (VC 4463), which deals with fictitious vehicle registration. At Inland Empire Criminal Defense, we are committed to helping you understand this law and exploring potential penalties if you are facing charges.

California Vehicle Code 4463: An In-Depth Examination

California Legal Definition: “Any person, who, with intent to prejudice, damage, or defraud, commits any of the following acts, is guilty of a misdemeanor.”

Vehicle Code 4463 addresses several actions related to vehicle registration, including:

1. Displaying or causing to be displayed any canceled, revoked, suspended, or fictitious registration card, license plate, or device.
2. Altering, forging, counterfeiting, or falsifying registration cards, license plates, or devices.
3. Using a canceled, revoked, suspended, or fictitious registration card, license plate, or device on a vehicle.
4. Using an altered, forged, counterfeit, or falsified registration card, license plate, or device on a vehicle.

Understanding this law is crucial to avoid potential legal issues and penalties.

Proving a Case Under Vehicle Code 4463

To secure a conviction under Vehicle Code 4463, the prosecution must establish that the defendant committed one or more of the prohibited acts mentioned above with the intent to prejudice, damage, or defraud. These acts pertain to manipulating or misrepresenting vehicle registration information.

Penalties for Violation

Violation of Vehicle Code 4463 is considered a misdemeanor offense in California. If convicted, potential penalties may include fines, probation, and even imprisonment. Additionally, a conviction can result in a criminal record, which may have long-lasting consequences.

Defenses Under Vehicle Code 4463

Defending against charges under Vehicle Code 4463 requires a strategic approach. Here are several examples of defenses tailored to this law:

1. Lack of Intent to Prejudice, Damage, or Defraud

A strong defense may involve demonstrating that the defendant did not have the requisite intent to prejudice, damage, or defraud. Proving a lack of malicious intent can be a key aspect of the defense.

2. Mistaken Identity

In some cases, individuals may be wrongly accused due to misunderstandings or misidentifications. Thoroughly investigating the circumstances can help uncover the truth.

3. Lack of Evidence

Challenging the evidence presented by the prosecution is a common defense strategy. If there is insufficient evidence to support the allegations, it may lead to a dismissal or acquittal.

While these are several examples of defenses, it’s important to note that there may be other potential defenses depending on the specifics of your case. Consulting with an experienced attorney is essential to building a robust defense tailored to your unique situation.

Inland Empire Criminal Defense: Your Trusted Legal Advocate

At Inland Empire Criminal Defense, we possess a deep understanding of California’s laws, including those related to fictitious vehicle registration. If you are facing charges under Vehicle Code 4463 (VC 4463), it’s crucial to have a legal advocate who will tirelessly defend your rights and future.

Don’t let accusations dictate your life’s trajectory. Act promptly and decisively. Call Inland Empire Criminal Defense—your trusted Rancho Cucamonga Criminal Defense Attorney—at 909-939-7126. Secure legal representation well-versed in California vehicle laws, dedicated to protecting your freedom. Our office is conveniently located in Ontario, ensuring accessibility when you need us most.