Identity Theft Lawyer In Los Angeles
Identity Theft Charges: State or Federal
Identity theft occurs when someone uses another person's name, Social Security number, date of birth, mother's maiden name, driver's license number, account numbers, passwords or other personal identification information, without authority, and falsely poses as another person to commit fraud and gain access to the other person's finances. This also includes selling or transferring personal information to another person to obtain money or goods.
Identity theft crime charges include:
- Internet identity theft: Internet or computer purchases using another person's credit card
- Credit card theft: Applying for a credit card (access card) or making purchases using another's identity
- Bank/credit card identity theft: Applying for a mortgage, other loan, or bank account
- Counterfeit or altered credit cards, driver's license, or official records (medical, marriage)
- Forgery of signature on documents such as a check or debit card purchase
- Publishing account numbers
Falsely posing as another person is a criminal act and carries serious penalties. If you have been accused of or charged with an identity theft crime, your case may be filed as either a misdemeanor or a felony and you will need a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney.
Los Angeles Identity Theft Attorney
A misdemeanor charge is punishable by up to one year in jail. A felony is punishable by 16 months or more of state prison time. The charge and sentence will depend on the following:
- Seriousness or degree of the victim's harm
- Amount of monetary damage
- The sophistication of the crime
- Defendant's past criminal record
- Internet theft: the Internet crosses state lines, so the theft can also be charged as a federal crime
If you have been arrested or accused of an identity theft crime, it is important to work with an attorney who has experience in identify theft cases for the best outcome of your case. A skilled attorney can develop a defense strategy early on in the case, and may be able to reduce or dismiss the charge before you even discuss settlement or go to trial. Alternative sentencing (no jail) is always an option with a professional attorney.
If you're charged with a theft crime, you must contact a Los Angeles forgery lawyer right away so your case can be properly evaluated.