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American Institute Of Criminal Law Attorneys

Identity Theft

Identity Theft Thanks to all the vast technological advancements in recent years, identity theft is becoming one of the fastest growing crimes in Southern California, and in the United States in general. Because of this it has now become a highly prosecuted offence by law enforcement. If you’ve been accused of identity theft in Los Angeles County, contact a Los Angeles identity theft lawyer right away.

An identity theft conviction can result in a sentence in county jail or even a state prison, depending on the circumstances, the sophistication of the crime and the defendant’s criminal history. Identity theft is a very serious charge, and it’s critical that anyone facing an identity theft charge gets in touch with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help them.

If you’ve been charged with the crime of identity theft, it’s vital that you get an experienced attorney to fight on your behalf. Let us help, call the Law Offices of William Kroger for a free consultation today at 323-655-5700.

What is Identity Theft in California?

Identity theft is taking someone’s personal information without their knowledge and using it to commit some type of fraud. Under California Penal Code Section 530.5 PC identity theft is defined as any person that unlawfully and intentionally acquires and retains possession of personal identifying information of another person. Typically this means somebody gaining unlawful access to a person’s computer information, mail, social security number and using it to open a credit card account, or other accounts, in order to get money or other items which they are not entitled to. It can also mean applying for a bank account, mortgage, or any type of loan using someone else's information, or using someone’s information to get a job or a marriage license or other legal documents. In simple terms, it’s when a person steals someone’s identity in order to gain something.

The California Identity Theft Law prohibits the possession, transfer, sale, or use of someone else's personal identifying information for any unlawful purpose or fraud.

Here are some personal identifying information that are often used to commit identity theft:

  • Name
  • Address
  • Telephone number
  • Social security number
  • Driver’s license
  • Passport number
  • Date of birth
  • Health insurance number
  • Mother’s maiden name
  • Computer password
  • Credit card number or ATM pin number
  • Checking or savings account number

Penalties for Identity Theft in California

In the state of California the crime of identity theft if a wobbler, meaning it can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. How identity theft is charged and punished depends on several different factors such as what amount of money was involved, the degree of harm caused to the victim, the defendant’s criminal record as well as the complexity of the crime scheme.

But even the lesser charges can result in big consequences. A misdemeanor identity theft conviction can land someone in jail for up to one year, and result in probation and fines, while a felony conviction can end with up to 25 years in federal prison.

The penalties do depend on some other factors. For example, if a person simply buys one item, their punishment will usually not be as harsh as the person who spent thousands of dollars. If you are facing charges for identity theft in Los Angeles County, contact an identity theft attorney serving Los Angeles to discuss your legal options.

Contact the Law Offices of William Kroger for the Best Identity Theft Defense

Identity theft cases tend to be complicated and involve a lot of evidence that has to be examined with a seasoned eye. That’s why you need an experienced Los Angeles identity theft lawyer, who knows exactly what they’re doing, on your side. William Kroger has been a criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles for years, and has the necessary expertise to handle your case and get you the best possible results.

If you need an identity theft attorney serving Los Angeles because you or your loved one have been accused of identity theft, let us help. Call the Law Offices of William Kroger for a free consultation at 323-655-5700.

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