AGGRESSIVELY PROTECTING YOUR RIGHTS
IDENTITY THEFT IS SERIOUS
Identity theft has been on the rise for some years, despite laws being introduced to crack down on the crime. Because of this increase, it is prosecuted very aggressively and at the federal level.
So your rights are protected and you can receive a good outcome in your case, your Minneapolis criminal defense lawyer will represent you every step of the way.
VICTIMS OF IDENTITY THEFT
Just as those accused of identity theft need representation, those that are victims need it as well. If you have noticed any of the following signs, then you need to speak with an attorney as soon as possible:
- Suspicious changes on your credit card statement
- New open accounts on your credit report or credit inquiries that you did not do
- Phone calls or emails thanking you for a purchase you never made
- Money withdrawn from your checking account
Your Minnesota identity theft lawyer can help you address these issues and can also assist you in the process of restoring your credit. Unfortunately, it can take a while to restore your credit after being the victim of an identity thief.
IDENTITY THEFT PENALITIES
The penalties range from a misdemeanor to a felony and can carry up to a 20-year prison sentence.
Any time the victim incurs losses, those losses will determine the penalty that must be paid. The number of victims in the crime also determines the penalty.
As for how the courts define loss, the court looks at the expenses the victim incurred as a result of the crime. For instance, $250 lost as a result of the identity thief’s actions will result in a misdemeanor, while damage of $35,000 or more is a felony and can result in 20 years in prison.
If you have been charged with or are being investigated for identity theft or you have been a victim of identity theft, you do need an attorney to help you every step of the way.
Call the Rivers Law Firm, P.A., today at 612-915-0355 or use our online form to find out what we can do to help.