If you’re reading this, you may be facing one of the most challenging situations of your life – an accusation of identity theft in Cerritos. The clock is ticking, and every decision you make from this point forward can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
Identity theft charges in California are serious, but you have the right to a legal defense. Our team of skilled Cerritos identity theft lawyers is ready to stand by your side and fight for your future.
Don’t let confusion or fear paralyze you – the sooner you act, the more we can do to help. Let’s explore how our Cerritos criminal defense lawyers can protect your freedom. Our firm has prevailed in over 100 jury trials, and we’ll take any case in California or federal court.
What Is the Law Against Identity Theft in California?
Identity theft, defined under California Penal Code 530.5, occurs when someone willfully obtains another person’s personal identifying information and uses it for any unlawful purpose. Even if no harm happened to the victim, you can still be convicted if the prosecution proves you intended to.
It is a grave crime that needs a lawyer with experience in these cases, like the team at Simmrin Law Group.
For a free legal consultation with an identity theft lawyer serving Cerritos, call (310) 896-2723
Types of Identity Theft
Financial Identity Theft
This is the most common form of identity theft. It involves using someone else’s personal information for financial gain. Examples include:
- Opening credit card accounts in another person’s name
- Making unauthorized purchases with stolen credit card information
- Taking out loans using someone else’s identity
Medical Identity Theft
Medical identity theft occurs when someone uses another person’s identity to obtain medical services, prescription drugs, or insurance benefits. This type of identity theft can have severe consequences, including:
- Incorrect information being added to the victim’s medical records
- Exhaustion of the victim’s insurance benefits
- Potential life-threatening situations if medical records are mixed up
Criminal Identity Theft
This form of identity theft happens when a person is cited or arrested for a crime and provides someone else’s identifying information to law enforcement. Victims of this crime can face:
- Getting a false criminal record
- Warrants issued in the victim’s name
- Potential arrest of the innocent victim
These cases often require careful examination of arrest records and collaboration with law enforcement to clear up misidentifications.
Synthetic Identity Theft
Synthetic identity theft is a more sophisticated form of crime. It involves combining real and fake information to create a new identity. Perpetrators might:
- Use a real Social Security number with a fake name
- Create entirely fictional identities using a combination of real and fake data
Due to the intricate nature of the fabricated identities, these cases can be particularly complex to prosecute and defend against.
Child Identity Theft
In this type of identity theft, a child’s personal information is used to commit fraud. This can go undetected for years, as children typically only use their credit once they reach the age of majority. Perpetrators might:
- Open credit card accounts
- Apply for government benefits
- Obtain driver’s licenses
Cerritos Identity Theft Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
What Are the Penalties for Identity Theft in Cerritos?
Identity theft is a “wobbler” offense in California, meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances of the case and your prior criminal history. Our identity theft lawyers in Cerritos can explain which version you may face.
If charged as a misdemeanor, potential penalties include:
- Up to one year in county jail
- Fines of up to $1,000
- Probation
For felony charges, you could face:
- 16 months, two years, or three years in state prison
- Fines of up to $10,000
- Formal probation
In addition to these criminal penalties, a conviction can have long-lasting effects on your life, including:
- Difficulty finding employment
- Challenges in securing housing
- Loss of professional licenses
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
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What Are Common Defenses Against Identity Theft Charges?
There are several defenses against identity theft charges. Our Cerritos identity theft attorneys will listen to your story and decide on the best approach for your case. Some common defenses include:
Lack of Intent
To be convicted of identity theft, the prosecution must prove that you intended to defraud or cause harm. If we demonstrate that you had no such intent, it could lead to reduced charges or dismissal.
Mistaken Identity
In some cases, you may have been wrongly identified as the perpetrator. We’ll thoroughly investigate to ensure you’re not being falsely accused.
Consent
If you had permission to use the personal information in question, it’s not identity theft. We’ll work to prove that you had legitimate authorization.
Insufficient Evidence
The prosecution must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is insufficient evidence to do so, we will push for the dismissal of the charges.
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Why Choose Simmrin Law Group for Your Identity Theft Defense?
When facing identity theft charges in Cerritos, you need a law firm with the experience, knowledge, and dedication to fight for your rights. At Simmrin Law Group, we offer:
- Extensive Experience: Our attorneys have handled numerous identity theft cases and know how to defend you from these charges.
- Personalized Attention: We treat each case with the individual care it deserves, tailoring our defense strategy to your unique situation.
- Aggressive Advocacy: We’re unafraid to stand up to prosecutors and fight vigorously for your rights.
- Comprehensive Support: From the moment you hire us, we’ll guide you through every step of the legal process.
Contact a Cerritos Identity Theft Lawyer Today
Don’t let identity theft charges jeopardize your future. Our identity theft attorneys in Cerritos are ready to fight for you. Contact Simmrin Law Group today for a confidential consultation. Let us put our knowledge and experience to work for you to protect you against your charges.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form