Alabama § 13A-8-12 - Defenses to Prosecutions for Theft and Unauthorized Use of Vehicle.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 13A-8-12 — Defenses to Prosecutions for Theft and Unauthorized Use of Vehicle., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 13A-8-12. Defenses to Prosecutions for Theft and Unauthorized Use of Vehicle.
(a) It is a defense to a prosecution under Sections 13A-8-2 through 13A-8-11 (theft of property, theft of lost property, theft of services and unauthorized use of vehicle) that the actor honestly believed that he had a claim to the property or services involved which he was entitled to assert in the manner which forms the basis for the charge against him.
(b) The burden of injecting the issue of claim of right is on the defendant, but this does not shift the burden of proof.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 13A-8-12
What does Code of Alabama § 13A-8-12 cover?
Section 13A-8-12 ("Defenses to Prosecutions for Theft and Unauthorized Use of Vehicle.") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alabama § 13A-8-12?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 13A-8-12" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alabama law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.
How does Alabama § 13A-8-12 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.