Identity Theft

White-collar crimes such as identity theft can have severe and far-reaching effects on its victims. It happens when someone steals someone’s credit card number, identity, or social security number and uses it to perpetrate fraud or other unlawful acts.

What Charges are Related to Identity Theft?

Charges for identity theft can vary from misdemeanors to felonies, contingent upon the severity of the act and the relevant jurisdiction. Typical accusations for identity theft include the following:

• Unauthorized Use of Personal Identifying Information (P.I.I.):

  This charge occurs when someone uses another person’s personal identifying information, such as their name, address, or Social Security number, without their consent.

• Identity Fraud:

  This charge occurs when someone uses another person’s identity to commit fraud, such as opening credit accounts or applying for loans.

• Credit Card Fraud:

  This charge occurs when someone uses a credit card or credit card information without the cardholder’s consent.

• Forgery:

  This charge occurs when someone creates or alters identification documents, such as driver’s licenses or passports, without authorization.

• Possession of Forged or Altered Identification Documents:

  This charge occurs when someone possesses identification documents that are known to be forged or altered.

The Consequences of Identity Theft Charges for Individuals

Here is a list of potential legal consequences for individuals charged with identity theft:

• Fines and penalties:

  Ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the jurisdiction and severity of the offense

• Criminal charges:

  Conviction can lead to criminal records, fines, and even imprisonment for up to 10-20 years or more

• Civil lawsuits:

  Victims of identity theft can sue for damages and seek compensation for losses, including legal fees

• Restitution:

  Courts may order the defendant to pay back stolen funds or compensate victims for losses

• Probation or community service:

  As an alternative to incarceration, individuals may be sentenced to probation or community service

• Driver’s license suspension or revocation:

  In some cases, a suspended or revoked driver’s license may be a consequence of identity theft charges

• Immigration consequences:

  For non-citizens, identity theft charges can lead to deportation or detention

• Stripped citizenship or residency:

  In extreme cases, identity theft charges can result in loss of citizenship or residency status.

How Do Identity Theft Charges Affect your Business?

Here is a list of potential legal consequences for business owners related to identity theft charges:

• Criminal charges, including felony or misdemeanor counts of identity theft, fraud, or forgery
• Fines and penalties, potentially up to thousands of dollars
• Jail time, ranging from a few days to several years
• Civil lawsuits from individuals whose identities were stolen, seeking damages and injunctive relief
• Loss of business reputation and credibility
• Potential revocation of business licenses or permits
• Increased insurance premiums or difficulty obtaining coverage
• Regulatory action, including fines and penalties from government agencies such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or state Attorney General’s office.

Bukh Law P.A. Identity Theft Charges Defense services:

1. Initial Consultation:

   A comprehensive review of your case, including a thorough understanding of the allegations and a discussion of your legal options.

2. Case Analysis:

   A detailed analysis of the evidence against you, including a review of any evidence seized or collected during the investigation.

3. Pre-Charging Negotiations:

   Our attorneys will work with the prosecutor’s office to negotiate a resolution to the case, potentially reducing or dismissing charges.

4. Trial Preparation:

   We will prepare you for trial, including preparing witnesses, exhibits, and presenting your case in court.

5. Criminal Defense Strategy:

   We will develop a customized defense strategy tailored to your specific case, including identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence.

6. Credit Report Monitoring:

   We will monitor your credit reports to identify any potential identity theft-related issues and take steps to rectify them.