Fraud Attorney Melbourne, FL
A Fraud Attorney Melbourne, FL Clients Recommend Explains the Basics of Identity Theft
Each state has their own specific legal definition of fraud. In general, however, fraud pertains to intentional misrepresentation of information as a means of gaining something in return; in many cases, the motive is financial gain. Identity theft is one of the more well-known forms of fraud.
In identity theft cases, victims have their personal and identification information stolen. This may apply to social security numbers, PIN’s, or credit card history. The fraud attorneys at Arcadier, Biggie & Wood, PLLC have extensive legal experience defending identity theft cases. Our Melbourne FL legal team continues to provide excellent service and knowledge to individuals who have been accused of identity theft. Common Elements of Fraud.
Identity theft is more common today than in the past. This is because so much of our lives now reside online. We conduct business online. We shop online. We bank online.
Because there is so much financial activity taking place online, both state and federal authorities are spending more time and energy to track down on identity theft. If you’ve been accused of identity theft, you need a fraud attorney Melbourne, FL trusts.
Types of identity theft
Arcadier, Biggie & Wood defends all types of identity theft. This includes:
- Using stolen credit cards
- Mail fraud
- Money laundering
- Using stolen passwords
- Using a stolen social security number
- Forgery
Fraud is serious and if you’re accused of any of these types of crimes, you should not delay in getting the legal counsel you need to defend and protect your rights. If you’re found guilty, you could face many years in prison. This is no joke.
Federal Identity Theft Act
Although specific laws impacting identity theft can vary depending on the state, the federal government does provide insight into what may constitute identity theft. Prior to 1998, the unauthorized use of another’s personal identification information was considered to be a form of false personation. However, growing concerns with identity theft led Congress to take action and pass the Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act.
The Act essentially made it a federal crime to knowingly use or transfer, without legal authority, a means of identification for another person with the intent to aid, abet, or commit any illegal activity that constitutes a felony under any applicable state or local law or violate federal law.
The Act accomplished multiple things:
- Identity theft penalties are now substantially greater than before. An individual convicted of identity theft could face up to 15 years in prison, as well as large fines.
- The Act eliminated various loopholes. Such loopholes allowed a person to steal another’s identity information as long as they did not possess fake identity documents. Today, you face serious penalties for stealing another individual’s identity.
- Before the Act, victim emphasis was often placed on financial institutions as opposed to the actual individual whose identity was stolen. Now, it is a separate crime against the victim whose credit was destroyed and identity stolen.
- The Act effectively established the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC is the headquarters for reporting identity theft cases.
Criminal Defense
The federal government is cracking down on cases of identity theft. If you have been accused of identity theft, speak with an attorney from the law office of Arcadier, Biggie & Wood, PLLC. Our attorneys have more than 75 years of combined legal experience defending identity theft cases. The penalties for identity theft can be severe; it is important to place your case in the hands of a trusted fraud attorney Melbourne, FL trusts from the office of Arcadier, Biggie & Wood, PLLC. Call us to schedule a free consultation.
When you work with a skilled and experienced fraud attorney Melbourne, FL, you give yourself the best chance of avoiding the worst punishment. There are many defenses we have the option to use. These include:
- Legal intent
- You legally had the person’s information
- False accusation
Because financial crimes can lead to money laundering, espionage, and terrorism, federal agencies get involved quickly. That’s why you can’t delay in getting an experienced fraud attorney Melbourne, FL on your side. Getting early help is one of the keys to success in fraud defense.
The police may tell you that getting an attorney shows you’re guilty. Don’t listen to them. That’s a tactic they use to convict you. As your Melbourne, FL fraud attorney, we can speak with investigators on your behalf and stand beside you at all hearings and trials. If we get involved early enough, we may even be able to resolve your issue before it gets to trial.
All fraud charges must be taken seriously. Whether you’ve been charged by the State of Florida or by the federal government, you need an aggressive defense team to fight for you.
Do I really need a lawyer?
Yes. Fraud is a serious crime with serious consequences. You do not want to take this lightly.
Even if you’re charged with a misdemeanor, you can face fines, jail time, and a record that will follow you around for the rest of your life. Felony charges are even more serious. They can come with prison time up to 30 years, depending on the type of felony you face.
Do not take this lightly. You need to speak with a fraud attorney Melbourne, FL right away.
Using the services of Arcadier, Biggie & Wood give you the peace of mind that you deserve. We’ve helped many clients just like who face state and federal fraud charges. You can lean on us to help guide you through this complex and challenging legal battle you face.
Selecting a fraud attorney Melbourne, FL is a personal choice. Contact us today and let us show you why your choice should be Arcadier, Biggie & Wood.
