South Florida Federal Identity Theft Lawyer

While identity theft accusations are always serious, they are usually prosecuted as state-level criminal offenses. However, under certain circumstances, the federal government may make arrests and even become involved in investigating and prosecuting identity theft charges. When federal agencies handle your identity theft case, you may face life-altering consequences.

You do not have to handle these charges alone. Seek support from an expert federal defense attorney with experience handling cases like yours and a track record of success. A South Florida federal identity theft lawyer at Rossen Law Firm can work tirelessly to enforce your rights and build a strong defense on your behalf. We believe that everyone’s rights deserve protection, no matter the charge. Reach out to our dedicated team to get started right away.

When is Identity Theft a Federal Offense?

While there are some exceptions, most federal identity theft charges stem from situations where someone has allegedly engaged in a widespread scheme with multiple identity thefts or transactions. These cases may also become federal offenses when someone allegedly steals a substantial amount of money through identity theft. An act of identity theft that involves crossing state lines at any point may also become the interest of federal courts.

18 U.S. Code § 1028 criminalizes knowingly obtaining someone’s identifying information without their permission and then misusing it in a way that causes financial or personal harm. Identifying information in this context can include a name, address, Social Security number, and driver’s license number. Stealing someone’s bank account and credit card information and using or taking from their finances can also be identity theft.

This law also states that anyone who commits identity theft during or in relation to any other felony offense may be charged with aggravated identity theft and face mandatory prison time. Support from a board-certified attorney can be key to effectively handling federal identity theft charges in Fort Lauderdale.

Possible Consequences of a Federal Identity Theft Conviction

Federal identity theft can carry a maximum prison sentence of five to 15 years, depending on the type of identifying information involved in an offense. However, aggravating factors, such as prior felony convictions, may push the court to impose harsher sanctions. A case of identity theft involving a large number of targets who experienced significant emotional distress or financial losses may also be subject to more severe consequences.

Aggravated identity theft charges carry a mandatory minimum sentence of two to five years in prison. In these cases, the nature of the crime associated with identity theft affects what penalties the defendant may face. The harshest penalties are reserved for cases of identity theft related to terroristic activity. An expert lawyer’s assistance is crucial in mitigating the severity of federal identity theft charges in South Florida.

Seek Help from a Knowledgeable Fort Lauderdale Federal Identity Theft Attorney

Identity theft prosecution at the federal level can be a demanding process, even if you are able to avoid conviction. If you are found guilty, you could face years behind bars for even a first offense and increasingly more severe sanctions if there are other aggravating factors.

Don’t try to face charges like these alone. The dedicated legal team at Rossen Law Firm is here for you. A South Florida federal identity theft lawyer can stand by your side through every step of the legal process and fight to defend your rights. Your initial strategy session is free, so contact our office today to get started.