Federal Identity Theft Defense Lawyer in West Palm Beach
A generation ago, identity theft was a rare occurrence and therefore rarely charged. However, the internet and other types of sophisticated technology make it easier for people to access information for personal gain. Thus, the federal government now routinely investigates, charges, and prosecutes these crimes.
Unfortunately, federal agents can become overzealous in their investigation, overcharging some individuals and going after innocent people. If this has happened to you, you are likely terrified and unsure of where to turn.
Ronald S. Chapman has over 34 years of experience in federal court and has represented numerous clients facing these charges. Instead of waiting to see what happens, take a proactive approach by contacting our West Palm Beach federal identity theft lawyer today.
Examples of Data Used for Identity Theft
You can be charged with identity theft if you access someone’s data and use it for personal gain. Some examples of stolen data include:
- Birth or death certificates
- Banking information
- Credit card information
- Driver’s license or passport information
- Social security numbers
- Tax identification numbers
Contact a federal identity theft attorney in West Palm Beach today if you are under investigation or have been arrested.
What Is Identity Theft?
You can be charged with identity theft if the federal government has reason to believe that you used someone else’s personal or financial information without their permission and for fraudulent purposes. For instance, if you obtained credit cards in someone else’s name, you may be investigated for identity theft. The same is true if you use another person’s information to file fraudulent tax returns.
While State authorities sometimes prosecute identity theft cases, it is far more common for the federal government to do so. As more and more technological advancements occur, these cases have become increasingly complicated. That means you need an experienced lawyer like Ronald Chapman to represent you. So contact our West Palm Beach identity theft attorney today in order to discuss your case.
Penalties For Identity Theft
The federal government has severe penalties in place for identity theft. If convicted, you could spend time in federal prison and pay a large fine. Additionally, the government can force you to forfeit personal property related to the crime.
The penalties increase if you are also charged with another crime. Unfortunately, this is all too common with federal cases. It is not unusual for the government to group together computer fraud, credit card fraud, and other violations. With so much at stake, it is important to consult with a West Palm Beach federal identity theft lawyer today.
Aggravated Identity Theft
If the government believes you stole someone’s identity as a means to commit another felony, you can face an aggravated identity theft charge. For instance, if the prosecution alleges that you stole someone’s identity to obtain social security benefits, you may face this enhanced charge. Depending on the charge, the judge can add additional time to your sentence.So call now to discuss your case with an experienced identity theft defense lawyer in West Palm Beach.Paying Restitution
If you are convicted of identity theft, the court can also force you to pay restitution to cover the financial losses the victims experienced. While a prison sentence and fine are criminal penalties, this is a civil penalty. The prosecution has to prove the amount of financial loss, and your lawyer has to make sure that their loss amount is correct. So reach out to a West Palm Beach identity theft defense attorney to protect your rights.