Carjacking is a type of robbery in which the criminal uses force or the threat of force to take possession and control of an automobile—usually when the victim is inside or near the automobile. Carjacking laws vary from state to state, and are usually located in a state’s penal code. Carjacking is also a federal crime when the stolen vehicle is transported, shipped, or received in interstate or foreign commerce (generally, transported across state lines).

In Arizona, carjacking is considered a serious criminal offense and is addressed under the state's robbery statutes. Specifically, Arizona law defines robbery as taking property from another person against their will by using or threatening to use force. When this type of robbery involves the taking of a vehicle, it is commonly referred to as carjacking. The crime can be charged as 'armed robbery' if a weapon is used or 'aggravated robbery' if an accomplice is present. The penalties for carjacking in Arizona are severe and can include lengthy prison sentences. Additionally, carjacking can be prosecuted as a federal crime if the stolen vehicle is transported across state lines, which falls under the jurisdiction of federal law enforcement agencies and is prosecuted by the United States Attorney's Office. The federal law against carjacking (18 U.S.C. § 2119) requires that the defendant had the intent to cause death or serious bodily harm, and the penalties can be up to life imprisonment or even the death penalty in cases resulting in the victim's death.