CVC 42000 Felony Vehicle Code Violations Explained | What to Do Next
General penalty provision for felony violations of Vehicle Code
Written by
Violation category
Registration & Tags
Base fine
$35
Estimated total cost
Includes court fees and assessments
DMV points
2 points
What is California Vehicle Code CVC 42000?
General penalty provision for felony violations of Vehicle Code
Common scenarios
- You were accused of a felony for driving with a suspended license, but you had a valid license and the officer confused your vehicle with another.
- You were charged with a felony for evading police, but the video shows you stopped safely and complied.
- You were ticketed under CVC 42000 after your car was involved in a hit-and-run, but you were not the driver at the time.
Key facts
- Felony vs. Misdemeanor: CVC 42000 covers felony offenses, which are more serious than misdemeanors. Felonies can lead to prison time, while misdemeanors usually involve smaller penalties.
- Not a Specific Crime: This code is a general penalty rule. It doesn’t describe one specific crime but applies to many serious vehicle-related offenses.
- Legal Help is Important: Because felony charges are serious, it’s smart to get a lawyer who knows traffic and criminal law to help you understand and fight the charge.
Fine breakdown for CVC 42000
| Category | Estimated amount |
|---|---|
| Base fine | $35 |
| Court & county surcharges (estimate) | $133 |
| Total estimated out-of-pocket | $168 |
County fees can multiply the base fine by 3–5x. ClerkHero confirms exact totals using your ticket details.
Understanding CVC 42000: Felony Vehicle Code Violations
Getting a ticket for CVC 42000 can feel scary because it involves felony-level vehicle violations. This code is a general rule that covers serious crimes related to driving. It means the offense is more than just a traffic ticket—it could lead to jail time or big fines.
What does this really mean?
- Felony means a serious crime, not just a small mistake.
- This code is a "catch-all" for big violations that break California’s vehicle laws.
- It’s often used when someone breaks rules that put others in danger or involve criminal behavior with a vehicle.
Why should you care?
- Felony charges can affect your freedom and your future.
- You might need a lawyer to help defend you.
- Understanding the charge helps you know your options and next steps.
Don’t panic. Many people face this and find ways to fight or reduce the charges. Keep reading to learn how you might defend yourself and what to expect.
Defense ideas you can use in your TR-205 packet
Every ticket is different, but these arguments often surface in successful Trial-by-Declaration defenses. ClerkHero tailors the narrative to match your facts and any evidence you upload.
Defense 1
You did not actually commit the felony violation—there may be mistaken identity or wrong vehicle involved.
Defense 2
The officer did not have enough evidence to prove the felony beyond a reasonable doubt.
Defense 3
The stop or search that led to the charge was illegal, so the evidence should be thrown out.
Defense 4
You were not driving the vehicle at the time of the offense.
Defense 5
The felony charge was applied incorrectly for what was actually a minor traffic violation.
We can help fight your ticket CVC 42000 online
ClerkHero builds your entire TR-205 defense packet automatically. No lawyer. No court visit. No confusing forms. Just upload your ticket and we handle the rest.
Step 1
Upload your ticket
We extract all violation details using hybrid OCR and AI. Works for handwritten, camera, and printed citations.
Step 2
We generate your defense
You answer a few questions. We craft a TR-205 defense letter tailored to this exact violation code.
Step 3
Sign, mail, and track
You receive a complete filing packet with step-by-step instructions. Never miss a deadline again.
Frequently asked questions about CVC 42000
What should I do if I get a ticket for CVC 42000?
Stay calm and read the ticket carefully. Consider talking to a traffic or criminal defense lawyer right away. Don’t ignore it—felony charges can get worse if you don’t respond.
Can I fight a felony vehicle code violation on my own?
You can try, but felony cases are complicated. A lawyer can help you understand the evidence, court process, and possible defenses.
Will this felony stay on my record forever?
Felony convictions usually stay on your criminal record. Sometimes you can clear or reduce it later, but it depends on the case and outcome.
Can a felony vehicle violation lead to jail time?
Yes. Felony charges can lead to jail or prison, fines, probation, or other serious penalties.
Is CVC 42000 the same as a DUI or reckless driving charge?
No. CVC 42000 is a general felony penalty code. DUI or reckless driving have their own specific codes, but they can sometimes be charged as felonies under this rule.