If you or a family member has been accused of identity theft, it is crucial to have the best legal representation possible. State and federal authorities are devoting more and more resources to prosecuting identity theft cases, and expert counsel is required to protect your rights. Criminal charges are a threat to your reputation, finances, and most importantly, your freedom. Contact the Law Offices of Geoffrey G. Nathan today.
What is Identity Theft?
Identity theft refers to any crime in which someone obtains and uses the personal information of another person in a fraudulent or deceptive manner for economic gain. It will typically consist of stealing a social security number, credit card information, or bank account numbers. Methods of identity theft can include stealing mail, finding information left unprotected in the trash, or using the internet to solicit financial or personal information.
Penalties for Conviction of Identity Theft
The Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act of 1998 established identity theft as a federal offense. Convictions carry a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, with fines and the forfeiture of any property used or intended to be used in commission of the alleged offense. Federal agencies including the FBI, Secret Service, and Postal Service inspectors will typically investigate organized identity theft rings, while smaller cases are handled on the state level.
In most cases involving identity theft the prosecution will attempt to tack on additional charges. Examples can include adding charges of credit card fraud, computer fraud, wire fraud, or financial institution fraud. These charges can carry penalties that will often be as high as 30 years in prison.
Contact the Law Offices of Geoffrey G. Nathan
If you have been accused of identity theft or any other serious crime, contact the Law Offices of Geoffrey G. Nathan. You have likely seen Attorney Nathan as a legal commentator on cable television, or heard of some of his more high profile cases. He has the experience and legal skills needed to handle serious criminal matters. To arrange an office consultation, contact a Boston identity theft lawyer today.