Spartanburg Identity Theft Lawyer

Identity theft involves using another individual’s personal identifying information in a fraudulent way. This could involve using someone else’s name to take out a loan or using a stolen social security number to register with government benefits. When you have been accused of this kind of fraud, the support of a Spartanburg identity theft lawyer is critical.

Criminal charges are a serious matter, but you have the right to fight back. A strong defense could help you avoid a conviction or a mark on your permanent record. Consider talking with a dedicated fraud defense attorney before you plead guilty or represent yourself in court. Call Ellis Hinton, LLC, today to speak with our experienced and highly skilled team.

What is Identity Theft?

Under state law, three different scenarios can qualify as identity theft. In each of these cases, a crime only occurs when personal identifying information is used without the consent of another person. Identity theft involves using these details to accomplish the following:

  • Misappropriate financial resources belonging to someone else,
  • Use as part of a scheme to defraud someone
  • Obtain or attempt to obtain information used to access financial records

The information involved in these cases can vary, but some examples include the following:

  • Social security number
  • Driver’s license
  • Credit card
  • Electronic identification numbers
  • Checking account information
  • Passports
  • Birth certificates

These cases are often complex, and the state frequently relies on a wide range of digital evidence to prove its case. You deserve defense counsel who understands how to protect your rights. Let a Spartanburg identity theft attorney evaluate the allegations against you today.

Defending Against These Allegations

There is never a guarantee that an identity theft arrest will result in a conviction. You have an opportunity to mount a defense with the help of skilled legal counsel. One of the most common ways to fight these charges is to highlight the lack of evidence the government offers.

You might also make the case that the state has it wrong, whether that means someone else committed the offense or you had permission to use the information in the way you did.

The Impact of a Conviction

Consequences come with being convicted of identity theft. Under state law, you could spend as much as ten years in prison following a guilty verdict. There is also the risk of steep monetary fines and restitution to consider.

While these are the penalties handed down by the court, you could also face collateral damage, such as losing your job or having employment opportunities taken away. A conviction could even jeopardize your status in this country if you are not a U.S. citizen. Additionally, child custody battles can be complicated by having a criminal record.

The adverse effects of an identity theft conviction are steep, but a Spartanburg lawyer could help. You have the right to defend yourself in court, and the support of strong legal counsel could secure a fair outcome.

Contact a Spartanburg Identity Theft Attorney Today

While identity theft charges are serious, assuming a conviction is guaranteed is never a good idea. You can avoid a conviction or negotiate a reasonable plea, especially when you have strong legal counsel by your side.

Before you plead guilty or represent yourself in your case, reach out to a Spartanburg identity theft lawyer for a private consultation. Our determined and well-versed legal team of defense attorneys has federal and state prosecutor experience and could handle your case for you.