In Arizona, identity theft is a serious crime that is increasing in frequency every year. This has a lot to do with technological advancements. The first is the Internet and how individuals can obtain personal information through it. The second is a device called a skimmer, which is something that identity thieves will use to swipe someone’s credit or debit card in order to retrieve the information. These skimmers can be used by hand or they can be placed on devices that accept credit and debit cards.
There are also instances where an accusation of identity theft can be a false one. In other words, the accusation holds no merit. Your Arizona criminal defense attorney can prove this fact so that the charges against you can be dismissed or so you can be acquitted if the case goes to trial.
Skillful Phoenix Criminal Defense Attorney Seeking Results
Identity theft is defined as the act of using the information of another person without permission in order to commit a crime. Millions of individuals around the United States experience this every year. The identity thieves obtain the information through birth certificates, social security numbers, debit and credit card PIN numbers, check or credit card numbers, driver’s license information, and Internet account login information.
Once information is obtained, it is used to create phony documents, accounts, and even credit and debit cards that allow the identity to be used. This can result in additional charges of financial fraud, which means a longer prison sentence.
Experience With The Federal & State Legal Systems
Identity theft can be prosecuted at both the state and federal levels and this means harsher penalties. It is important to work only with an Arizona identity theft who is experienced with both legal systems, as the laws are different and the case is prosecuted differently at each level.
Nonetheless, the goal is the same and that is to receive the best possible result by fighting the charges. Evidence in your case may show that the case needs to be dismissed or the charges reduced, which will reduced the penalties if convicted. A conviction can result in up to 3 1/2 years in prison for an act of aggravated identity theft, but other charges, such as trafficking in the identity of another can result in up to five years in prison. The actual identity theft charge warrants a prison sentence of up to 2 ½ years. When the charges cannot be dropped, having them reduced can greatly reduce the penalties that are paid.
Contact An Phoenix Criminal Defense Lawyer
Identity theft is a serious crime, as it is one that can be charged at both the state and federal levels and this means very severe penalties that can involve years in a federal prison. With the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney, you can receive the best possible result. The facts can be revealed in your case and your rights protected. To learn more, call Myles A. Schneider & Associates, LTD today at 602-928-7373 for a free consultation.