Clearwater Criminal Defense Law Firms Fighting Identity Theft Allegations
Identity theft is a serious crime that can wreak havoc on a victim’s life. If you have been accused of identity theft in Clearwater, Florida, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. The consequences of an identity theft conviction can be severe, including hefty fines and years in prison. Don’t go it alone against the power of the government – get legal help immediately.
In this article, we’ll provide an overview of identity theft allegations and charges in Clearwater, and how a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer can defend you. We’ll also highlight some of the top-rated Clearwater law firms that handle these types of cases.
Understanding Identity Theft Charges in Clearwater, FL
Identity theft essentially involves using someone else’s personal information without their consent to commit fraud or other crimes. Under Florida law, there are two main identity theft offenses:
- Fraudulent use of personal identification information. This covers obtaining and using someone’s information like their name, date of birth, social security number, or driver’s license to get money, credit, goods, or services.
- Fraudulent use of personal identification information of a deceased individual. This applies when someone uses the information of someone who has passed away to try to get something of value.
Penalties vary based on the number of victims and the value of what was obtained, but identity theft is generally charged as a felony. Even first-time offenses can potentially lead to years in state prison.
How Criminal Defense Lawyers Fight These Allegations
The key starting point is thoroughly analyzing the prosecution’s evidence and identifying any weaknesses. For example, if the identity theft allegation stems from a fraudulent credit card application, the defense will look closely at:
- How the defendant’s identity was supposedly verified – Were identifiers like social security number, birthdate, etc. actually used or just basic info like name and address? This raises doubt about whether the applicant was really the defendant.
- Where the application allegedly occurred – If the application was made online or over the phone, it’s harder to prove who actually filled it out. This differs from in-person applications where video surveillance or eyewitnesses could potentially identify the applicant.
- How accounts were accessed – Was the account only accessed remotely, or did the perpetrator visit bank branches or make in-person purchases? Remote access makes it easier for someone else to be responsible.
Skilled Clearwater criminal defense attorneys also diligently investigate the backstory of identity theft accusations. There are often mitigating circumstances, such as:
- Mistaken identity – The victim may have incorrectly identified the perpetrator, or the police apprehended the wrong suspect. Thoroughly vetting identification evidence like photo lineups is crucial.
- Unauthorized use by a family member – Oftentimes spouses, children, or other family members have access to identification documents and use them without permission. This can show the defendant never actually intended to commit identity theft.
- Previous data breaches – If a victim’s information was compromised in a prior data breach, that provides an alternative explanation for how others could have accessed it without the defendant’s involvement.
Top-Rated Clearwater Criminal Defense Firms for Identity Theft Cases
If you are facing identity theft charges in Clearwater, these experienced local criminal defense law firms can help protect your rights:
Hanlon Law
With a perfect 5-star rating across two dozen Google reviews, Hanlon Law has a strong reputation in the Clearwater area for defending clients against identity theft and other theft charges. Founding attorney Will Hanlon is a former state prosecutor with extensive trial experience on both sides. Contact them for a free case review.
Blake & Dorsten, P.A.
This Clearwater criminal defense firm is highly experienced with identity theft cases, as well as related charges like fraud and forgery. Founding partners Richard Blake and R. John Dorsten have over six decades of combined legal experience. They offer 24/7 availability to protect clients’ rights.
Tragos, Sartes & Tragos, PLLC
Led by acclaimed Clearwater defense lawyer Peter Tragos, this firm handles federal fraud charges including complex identity theft cases. Tragos has over four decades of experience and teaches identity theft criminal defense strategies to other lawyers. He’s repeatedly been named among Florida’s top 100 lawyers.
The Law Place
This Clearwater firm provides aggressive defense representation for clients facing allegations of identity theft, credit card fraud, and related charges. Their attorneys have over 75 years of combined criminal defense experience. Founding partner Michael Walker is a Board Certified Expert in Criminal Trial Law.
Don’t Go Through This Alone – Consult a Clearwater Identity Theft Lawyer
Facing identity theft charges can be an extremely stressful and frightening experience. The risk of serious penalties is real, and you need strong legal guidance to avoid missteps when accused. The Clearwater criminal defense law firms profiled above have the skills and experience to protect your rights and seek the most favorable case resolution possible.
Don’t leave your fate in the hands of the justice system without experienced representation on your side. The consequences are too high. Take action and contact one of these firms for a free case evaluation as soon as possible after being charged. An identity theft conviction can follow you for life – you need to fight the allegations aggressively from the start. With the right legal support, you can move forward and put these allegations behind you.