Pennsylvania Identity Theft Lawyer
The information age and the Internet have made identity theft an easier crime to commit. It is one of the fastest growing crimes in the U.S. And because it is so common, law enforcement agencies at the federal, state and local level collaborate to investigate suspects using specialized tracking techniques.
If you were charged with identity theft in PA, the evidence gathered by law enforcement agencies, such as the Financial Crimes Task Force of Southwestern Pennsylvania, may be lengthy and very precise. It will require a skilled defense team of attorneys experienced with both Pennsylvania and U.S. Federal courts to fight against your charges.
Penalties for identity theft, although it may have seemed like a harmless, non-violent crime to commit, are very severe. You could face indictment in U.S. Federal courts, the punishments of which could result in a lengthy prison sentence and large fines, not to mention a criminal record.
If you are facing criminal charges for identity theft, you will need to speak to an experienced and aggressive criminal fraud attorney who can explain your rights and how to fight for them.
Pittsburgh Attorney David J. Shrager personally answers his cell phone and will give you a free legal consultation.
Even if the evidence is stacked against you, it may be possible to have your charges and sentencing significantly reduced.
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BEING CHARGED WITH IDENTITY THEFT
DOES NOT HAVE TO MEAN THAT YOU ARE GUILTY
OR THAT YOU WILL BE CONVICTED.
CALL OR TEXT DAVID J. SHRAGER TODAY
FOR A FREE LEGAL CONSULTATION: 412-969-2540.
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What Is Considered Identity Theft?
Identity theft means using someone else’s personal identity information without their consent in order to gain something of value, benefit financially, or to commit anther crime. Personal identity information can include social security numbers, credit cards, insurance information, bank account information and cell phone service, as well as other private information, such as a date of birth.
You could be charged separately for each transaction that was committed using someone else’s identity, which could lead to very harsh sentences, if you are convicted. Oftentimes people accused of identity theft are also charged with credit card fraud or forgery.
Identity fraud can include many types of criminal activity. Some examples include:
- Using a stolen credit card for making purchases;
- Using someone else’s personal checks or business checks;
- Stealing a driver’s license to commit a fraudulent act;
- Hacking into another person’s bank account and stealing their money;
- Filing false tax returns and collecting the refund;
- Using another individual’s identity to obtain government benefits;
- Using another individual’s identity to obtain health care or prescription medication;
- Applying for a loan or mortgage using another person’s identity information;
- Applying for a credit card with someone else’s personal information;
- Obtaining a replacement credit card in someone else’s name or falsifying information to receive someone else’s credit card.
_________________________________________________________
BEING CHARGED WITH IDENTITY THEFT
DOES NOT HAVE TO MEAN THAT YOU ARE GUILTY
OR THAT YOU WILL BE CONVICTED.
CALL OR TEXT DAVID J. SHRAGER TODAY
FOR A FREE LEGAL CONSULTATION: 412-969-2540.
____________________________________________________________
Penalties for Identity Theft in Pennsylvania
If you are charged with identity fraud or identity theft in Pennsylvania, the penalties depend on the amount of money or value of merchandise allegedly stolen. The Pennsylvania Criminal Code Title 18 Chapter 4120 lists the complete definitions for identity theft and grading of the sentencing if convicted.
The grading is as follows:
Less than $2,000: A first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
$2,000 or more: A third-degree felony, punishable by up to seven years in prison and a $15,000 fine.
If you have similar offenses already on your record, you may face tougher penalties. A third conviction for identity theft is a second-degree felony.
If the victim of identity fraud is over 60 years old or is physically challenged, the grade is one degree higher.
If identity fraud was committed to further another type of crime or conspiracy, it a third-degree felony.
In addition to jail time and fines, you will most likely be ordered to pay restitution to each of the victims.
In addition, you can be charged with each violation or transaction committed.
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PENNSYLVANIA IDENTITY THEFT LAWYER
I FIGHT FOR YOUR RIGHTS.
CALL OR TEXT DAVID J. SHRAGER TODAY
FOR A FREE LEGAL CONSULTATION: 412-969-2540.
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Defense Against Identity Theft Charges – Fight For Your Rights
In order to try to have you convicted, the prosecution will need to evidence to prove that you committed the crime. It is up to your defense team to prove that you never committed the crime to begin with or to negotiate with the prosecution to have the charges reduced.
There are many possible defenses to fight identity theft charges. These can include a lack of proof, misidentification of the accused, or an alibi. If permission was granted to use the identity information, and this can be proven, then the defendant cannot be convicted.
An aggressive defense lawyer will make attempts to prove your innocence or push to have the charges reduced. It is important to have the best criminal defense attorney possible in order to build a strong case and fight for your rights.
If you think you are being investigated for identity fraud, you should contact a Pennsylvania Fraud Lawyer right away. You do not have to answer any questions from police without an attorney by your side.
At Shrager Defense Attorneys we carefully review all evidence and gather all details surrounding your case in order to prove your innocence and have your charges dismissed or reduced.
Our federal crime attorneys have adept experience in the federal court system as well as in Pennsylvania. We have years of experience in successful litigation and winning cases for people accused of serious crimes. We are aggressive in our approach and take the time to provide the best possible legal counsel to all of our clients.
If you have been charged with identity theft, speaking with a compassionate attorney who listens closely and will help you understand your rights is the first step in defending your freedom.
Call Attorney David Shrager today at 412-969-2540 for a free consultation.
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FREE Legal Consultation
Call or Text 412-969-2540 right now for a FREE initial legal consultation.
Speak directly with David J. Shrager 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Shrager Defense Attorneys in Pittsburgh, PA will attack your criminal charges in order to protect your good name. Have a sound and solid case prepared by David J. Shrager and his legal team so they can fight for your rights.
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