Q: Can I convicted of receiving stolen property on a atv but I’ve got proof that I done a vin check and it’s registered me?
I have proof of the vin check that was done before i purchased it I had a notorized bill of sales I have a notorized statement from the notary that notorized the bill of sale when i purchased it and I took that bill of sale and now it’s registered in my name and I have a clear title that’s in my name the police actually took the atv while I was gone and gave it to some guy that had no proof of ownership and you can do a vin check right now and that atv has never been reported stolen and now the guy they gave it too has sold it so can they convict me and how can I get my property back?
A:
Based on the information you've provided, it seems unlikely that you would be convicted of receiving stolen property if you have clear evidence showing you performed due diligence before purchasing the ATV and have properly registered it in your name. However, the specific details and strength of the evidence in your case will be important factors.
To protect yourself and attempt to recover your property, consider taking the following steps:
1. Gather all documentation: Collect the notarized bill of sale, the notarized statement from the notary, the title in your name, and any other relevant paperwork that supports your rightful ownership of the ATV.
2. Consult with a criminal defense attorney: Discuss your case with a lawyer who specializes in criminal law. They can assess the strength of your evidence, advise you on the best course of action, and represent you in court if necessary.
3. File a complaint with the police department: Submit a formal complaint to the police department that took your ATV, explaining the situation and providing copies of your supporting documents. Request an investigation into the matter and the return of your property.
4. Consider civil action: If the police do not return your property, you may need to file a civil lawsuit against the department to recover your ATV or seek compensation for your loss. Your attorney can advise you on this process.
Remember, the specific laws and legal procedures may vary depending on your jurisdiction, so it's essential to consult with a local attorney who can provide guidance based on the laws of your state or country.
Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.
The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.
Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.
