Utah § 76-6-522 - Equity skimming of a vehicle.

Full text of Utah Utah Code § 76-6-522 — Equity skimming of a vehicle., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 76-6-522. Equity skimming of a vehicle.

Effective 5/3/2023
76-6-522.  Equity skimming of a vehicle.
(1)
(a) As used in this section:
(i) "Actor" means a broker, dealer, or a person in collusion with a dealer or broker.
(ii) "Broker" means any person who, for compensation of any kind, arranges for the sale, lease, sublease, or transfer of a vehicle.
(iii) "Dealer" means any person engaged in the business of selling, leasing, or exchanging vehicles for compensation of any kind.
(iv) "Lease" means any grant of use or possession of a vehicle for consideration, with or without an option to buy.
(v) "Security interest" means an interest in a vehicle that secures payment or performance of an obligation.
(vi) "Transfer" means any delivery or conveyance of a vehicle to another from one person to another.
(vii) "Vehicle" means every device in, upon, or by which any person or property is or may be transported or drawn upon a highway, or through the air or water, or over land and includes a manufactured home or mobile home as defined in Section 41-1a-102.
(b) Terms defined in Section 76-1-101.5 apply to this section.
(2) An actor commits equity skimming of a vehicle if the actor:
(a)
(i) transfers or arranges the transfer of a vehicle for consideration or profit; and
(ii) has not first obtained written authorization of the lessor or holder of the security interest; and
(b) knows or should have known the vehicle is subject to a lease or security interest.
(3) A violation of Subsection (2) is a third degree felony.
(4) It is a defense to a violation of Subsection (2) if the defendant proves by a preponderance of the evidence that the lease obligation or security interest has been satisfied within 30 days following the transfer of the vehicle.
(5) This section may not be construed to impose criminal or civil liability on any law enforcement officer acting within the scope of a criminal investigation.
(6) The forfeiture of property under this section, including any seizure and disposition of the property and any related judicial or administrative proceeding, shall be conducted in accordance with Title 77, Chapter 11a, Seizure of Property and Contraband, through Chapter 11c, Retention of Evidence.


Amended by Chapter 111, 2023 General Session

Source: official Utah text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Utah § 76-6-522

What does Utah Code § 76-6-522 cover?

Section 76-6-522 ("Equity skimming of a vehicle.") is part of the Utah Code, the codified statutory law of Utah. 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 Utah § 76-6-522?

A common citation format is "Utah Code § 76-6-522" (Utah). 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 Utah law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Utah official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Utah attorney.

How does Utah § 76-6-522 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Utah 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 Utah.