An identity theft conviction has long-lasting consequences. Instead of taking the blame for an identity theft crime, seek legal help. Work with a San Fernando identity theft lawyer who can dispute the charge against you.
Simmrin Law Group has handled more than 100 jury trials, including many identity theft cases. Our criminal defense lawyers in San Fernando are available to assist you. Contact us today to get started.
Identity Theft Examples
Using someone’s name, address, or other personally identifiable information (PII) for unlawful purposes and without this individual’s consent can result in an identity theft charge. In this situation, you can receive a misdemeanor or felony. Here are scenarios considered to be identity theft.
Getting Medical Care
An individual takes a person’s health insurance card and uses it to receive medical care in the cardholder’s name. The cardholder will incur bills for medical care administered to someone else. This represents medical identity theft.
Setting Up Credit Card Accounts
If an individual has someone else’s PII, they can sign up for credit cards in this person’s name. When this happens, the cardholder can make fraudulent purchases. This is financial identity theft, and those convicted of it can face serious consequences for their actions.
Establishing a Synthetic ID
A person can create a synthetic ID using real and fake information about a person. Then, this individual can use the ID to illegally apply for loans, access tax refunds, and receive other benefits. Synthetic identity theft is a major problem, and California and federal prosecutors will try to punish those who commit this crime to the fullest extent of the law.
If someone accuses you of any of these or other forms of identity theft, Simmrin Law Group can help. Our San Fernando identity theft attorneys can learn about your charge and prepare a legal strategy for you. Request a consultation with our federal crimes lawyers serving San Fernando.
For a free legal consultation with an identity theft lawyer serving San Fernando, call (310) 896-2723
San Fernando Identity Theft Penalties
Based on 530.5 PC, identity theft is a “wobbler” crime, with penalties that vary. If convicted of a misdemeanor, you face up to one year in jail, summary probation, and a fine of up to $1,000. For a felony conviction, penalties can include up to three years in jail, formal probation, and a fine of up to $10,000.
In addition to these, there are potential immigration and gun rights consequences associated with an identity theft conviction. An undocumented immigrant convicted of identity theft can be deported, or their access to the United States can be denied. Following a conviction, an individual may no longer be eligible to own or possess a firearm.
An identity theft lawyer serving San Fernando can explain what a wobbler is in detail. Along with this, your attorney considers the facts of your case carefully. In doing so, they can develop an argument to help you show the court that you do not deserve to be punished.
San Fernando Identity Theft Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
How to Contest an Identity Theft Charge
Expect a prosecutor to do everything within their power to pursue a conviction. If you have an experienced identity theft attorney serving San Fernando at your side, you can avoid this worst-case scenario. Your lawyer will evaluate many legal defenses, including:
You Did Not Have an Unlawful Purpose When You Took Someone Else’s PII
Someone asks you to use their personal information to prepare a report or submit documentation on their behalf. In this scenario and similar ones, you accessed this individual’s PII for a lawful purpose. You can explain this to the court and, as such, boost your chances of having the charge against you dropped.
You Did Not Willfully Access Someone Else’s Personal Information
There are times when people access personal information on purpose. In your identity theft case, if you never willfully accessed the defendant’s PII, tell your lawyer. From here, your attorney can gather witness statements and other evidence to prove there was no willful access.
You Were Falsely Accused
Unfortunately, someone can claim you committed identity theft in spite of the fact that you were not involved in the crime. You cannot prevent someone from making a false accusation against you. On the other hand, your lawyer can share communications between you and the defendant and other proof to raise doubts about the case against you.
If you have a strong body of evidence, the prosecution may struggle to compel the court to convict you of identity theft. In some instances, your proof may help you get a plea deal. By accepting a plea bargain, you could avoid jail time and other harsh penalties.
Click to contact our San Fernando Criminal Defense Lawyers today
Our San Fernando Identity Theft Lawyers Will Take Legal Action on Your Behalf
Going through the legal process alone can be overwhelming. It only takes one mistake during this process to get a conviction. Thankfully, San Fernando criminal defense attorneys will advocate for you and protect your legal rights at each stage of your legal proceedings.
With decades of legal experience, the team at Simmrin Law Group provides the legal services and support you need to deal with your identity theft charge. Let our lawyers assist you throughout your litigation. Schedule a consultation with our attorneys.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form