Los Angeles Identity Theft Attorney

Los Angeles Identity Theft Lawyer

Call Our Skilled Los Angeles Internet Crime Attorney

Identity theft is a crime that is harshly prosecuted throughout the U.S., by both state and federal government agencies. The Los Angeles internet crime defense lawyer at Okabe & Haushalter understands the importance of protecting the rights of individuals who have been accused of identity theft, in order to prevent the innocent from being imprisoned and to prevent law enforcement from violating citizens’ constitutional rights in their pursuit of justice.

When you consult our firm, we will review your particular charges with you in order to determine what we can do to help. Our attorneys have experience as former prosecutors, giving them the advantage of understanding both sides of criminal proceedings involving identity theft. As a result, we are able to see the weaknesses in the State’s (the prosecution’s) case and work to prove innocence.

Identity Theft Charges In California

When we turn to California Penal Code § 530.5 PC, we can see that identity theft involves willfully obtaining someone else’s identifying information and using that information for an unlawful or fraudulent purpose. Typically, identity theft occurs when a person intentionally obtains or uses another person’s:

• Social Security number
• Birth certificate
• Telephone number
• Credit card number
• Bank account information
• Driver’s license number
• Pin number or password
• or any other personal identifying information

There are various types of identity theft that can occur in and around Los Angeles. At Okabe & Haushalter, our identity theft attorneys regularly help clients who have been charged with the following:

• Financial identity theft. This involves using another person’s identity to obtain goods, services, or credit.
• Criminal identity theft. This involves using another person’s identity after being arrested for committing a crime.
• Medical identity theft. This involves using another person’s identity to obtain medical care and/or prescription medication.
• Identity cloning. This involves using someone else’s identifying information and assuming their identity in everyday life.
• Business identity theft. This involves posing as an owner or employee of a business to obtain something of monetary value.
• Child identity theft. This involves using a child’s identity to obtain cash, credit, or loans.

Penalties To Identity Theft In California

A conviction of identity theft under California Penal Code § 530.5 PC could result in various consequences. In California, this offense is known as a “wobbler,” which means it could be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on a number of factors. This can include the total value of the property, the extent of the illegal behavior, whether your actions caused anyone to suffer from significant harm, and your previous criminal record.

Identity theft charges can result in either state or federal prosecution. A misdemeanor conviction of identity theft is punishable by up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $1,000. A felony conviction of identity theft in California is punishable by up to 16 months, two years, or three years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

A federal conviction of identity theft could result in penalties of up to 30 years in federal prison.

Call An Identity Theft Attorney in Los Angeles Today

If you or somebody you care about is facing identity theft charges at the state or federal level in the Los Angeles area, reach out to Okabe & Haushalter for help with your case today. Our qualified and experienced Los Angeles identity theft attorneys will get to work building a defense on your behalf immediately. You can contact us for a free consultation of your case today by clicking here or calling 310-543-7708.