Identity theft is a white collar crime that may be prosecuted under federal or state criminal statutes. Even though it is a non-violent crime, it is a serious criminal charge that could result in severe criminal penalties. If you are charged with identity theft, you need the advice of an experienced criminal defense lawyer.
Our attorneys at Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys have successfully defended clients in thousands of cases. With over 30 years of combined legal experience, our lawyers have the skills and resources to handle the most complex criminal cases.
Call (650) 299-0500 or contact Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys to schedule a free consultation with our Redwood City identity theft lawyers. We have represented the accused in California since 2005 and are ready to help you with your legal case.
How Our Criminal Defense Lawyers at Ahmed & Sukaram Help You With Identity Theft Charges in California
California aggressively pursues and prosecutes cases of identity theft. The United States Attorney’s Office also pursues these cases, which could result in harsh sentences under federal sentencing guidelines. The penalties could include decades in prison.
If you have been charged with identity theft, we can help. When you hire our Redwood City criminal defense attorneys, you can expect us to:
- Conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to your identity theft charges
- Gather evidence and analyze possible defenses to dismiss charges or mitigate the terms of a plea deal
- Discuss your legal options and the likelihood of success if we go to trial
- Aggressively represent you during all phases of your case, including negotiating plea deals and appearing in court
- Demand the prosecution turn over evidence they intend to use against you in court, including exculpatory evidence they may have that could prove your innocence
Numerous organizations have awarded our attorneys top ratings and recognition for their outstanding legal services. We are highly rated with Avvo and Super Lawyers. Our attorneys also appear on the Top 100 list by The National Trial Lawyers and the Top 40 Under 40 list. Our legal team includes a California State Bar Certified Specialist in criminal law.
Call Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys today to schedule a free case evaluation with an experienced Redwood City identity theft lawyer. We are available 24/7 to take your call.
Overview of Identity Theft Laws in California
Identity theft involves stealing someone’s personal identity and using their personal identifying information to commit fraud and other crimes. California Penal Code §530.5 defines the crime of identity theft as willfully obtaining personal identifying information of another person and using the information for unlawful purposes.
Examples of unlawful purposes include, but are not limited to, obtaining or attempting to obtain:
- Real estate
- Credit
- Services
- Goods
- Medical information
Identifying information is defined as a person’s name, address, and telephone number. It also includes their taxpayer identification number (i.e., Social Security number), mother’s maiden name, school identification number, health insurance information, driver’s license number, birth date, and other personal information used to identify that person.
Examples of Identity Theft in Redwood City, CA
Numerous actions can result in a charge of identity theft. Examples of things someone may do that fall under this category of criminal charges include:
- Using someone’s information to open credit card accounts or make credit card purchases
- Forging someone’s name on checks or other documents
- Filing tax returns using another person’s identification number to obtain their tax refunds
- Collecting insurance benefits and government benefits using someone else’s information
- Obtaining a driver’s license to impersonate someone
- Opening financial accounts using someone’s Social Security number and name
- Using someone’s information to collect unemployment benefits
- Forging documents to transfer assets and property
Identity theft is often used to steal money or assets. It can result in a victim losing thousands of dollars in assets or owing thousands of dollars in debt they did not obtain. Therefore, the penalties for identity theft can be severe because the courts do not view identity theft as a victimless crime.
What Are the Penalties for Identity Theft in Redwood City, CA?
Identity theft is a wobbler. It can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the circumstances. The factors that determine the charges and penalties include:
- The extent of the defendant’s illegal conduct
- The total value of the property that was illegally received
- The defendant’s criminal history and past identity theft convictions
- Whether someone suffered harm because of the identity theft
Each individual act of identity theft can be charged as a separate offense. Therefore, the criminal penalties for all offenses could be overwhelming.
The penalties for misdemeanor identity theft usually include up to one year in county jail, a fine of up to $1,000, and restitution to the victim. The court may also include community service and summary probation.
The punishment for a conviction of felony identity theft include 16 months to three years in a California prison and a maximum fine of $10,000. The court may also require the defendant to pay restitution and serve formal probation after prison.
Learn More During a Free Consultation With a Redwood City Identity Theft Attorney
You should not face criminal charges alone. There could be several defenses to identity theft charges, including lack of intent to commit the crime.
Call Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys to speak with an attorney about your case. Our Redwood City identity theft lawyers offer personalized representation as you navigate this challenging situation. You can also visit our office in Redwood City, CA.
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Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys
600 Allerton Street, Suite 201G,
Redwood City, CA 94063
Phone: (650) 299-0500
