Individuals commit identity theft in Long Beach when they steal another person’s personal information. You can face harsh penalties in both state and federal court if you are convicted of any form of identity theft, including fines and incarceration.
Trying to beat an identity theft charge on your own can make your situation worse. You will have the best chance for securing your freedom if you get professional help from an identity theft lawyer in Long Beach as soon as possible.
The Simmrin Law Group can begin building your defense with just a phone call. We understand the legal codes surrounding identity theft and the most effective defenses to protect our clients. Contact us now to find out more about your legal options after an identity theft accusation.
Different Forms of Identity Theft
Many different acts are considered identity theft in Long Beach. Some examples of identity theft can include:
- Stealing Credit Card Information
- Fraudulently Using Someone’s Email Account
- Forging a Signature
- Using Someone Else’s ID
You may also be charged with identity theft if you use someone’s social security number (SSN) in order to:
- Collect Welfare Payments
- Collect Social Security Payments
Any act of identity theft must be taken seriously. You can face serious penalties if you are convicted of stealing another person’s identity. Make sure you’re ready to defend yourself in and out of court by contacting our identity theft lawyers for help today.
Identity Theft Penalties in Long Beach
You may be charged with identity theft in state courts or federal courts. These court systems use different punishments for identity theft convictions. Individuals charged in a state court may be sentenced to a misdemeanor or a felony. A conviction could lead to:
- Fines. A misdemeanor can be punished with fines of up to $1,000. A felony could cost you $10,000.
- Jail Time. You could be sent to jail for 1 year for a misdemeanor. Felony charges can result in 3 years of incarceration.
Federal courts generally hand down harsher sentences for identity theft. You may end up spending 30 years in a federal prison if convicted in a federal court.
Charges Associated with Identity Theft
You can quickly become overwhelmed by additional criminal charges if you are accused of identity theft. Depending on your situation, you could be charged with a form of fraud. You might be accused of forgery, theft, or another criminal act.
These charges will come with penalties of their own, which can increase your fines or the time you spend incarcerated. Getting professional help on your side right away will give you the best odds of beating any criminal charges you are facing.
Handle an Identity Theft Charge the Right Way
Some people are told that they will look guilty if they get help from an experienced lawyer after being accused of a criminal act. In fact, you should always utilize your right to legal representation. Individuals are falsely accused of crimes all the time. Getting help from a criminal defense lawyer in Long Beach shows that you are dedicated to protecting your future.
We may be able to prove that you:
- Did Not Mean to Commit a Crime
- Acted with Another Person’s Consent
An identity theft lawyer can even help you if you plan to plead guilty. Our team can work to get evidence against you thrown out, especially if police officers violated your rights during their investigation. We may be able to negotiate with prosecutors to secure a plea bargain that lowers the penalties you will face.
Our goal will always be securing the best possible outcome for our clients. Let us handle any identity theft charges you are facing so you can move on with your life.
Get Free Advice from a Long Beach Identity Theft Lawyer
Figuring out your next step after being charged with identity theft can be incredibly stressful. The Simmrin Law Group knows that you need professional help on your side to have the best chance for beating the charges against you. Let our identity theft lawyers in Long Beach start working on your case today with a FREE consultation.
Let us provide you with the legal protection you need. Complete our online contact form or call (310) 997-4688 to get started today.