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What to Expect If You’ve Been Accused of Identity Theft

Posted on March 20, 2024 in

Identity theft is a growing problem in the US, and as such, identity theft charges are increasing as more methods are developed to monitor such activity. If you are accused of identity theft, that often means there is some type of cyber or other tangible information that indicates that you have engaged in an activity that could be a violation of another person’s rights. There are several factors to consider in these situations so talk to a Lakewood criminal defense lawyer from the Law Offices of James L. Finegan, P.C., today.

Take the First Steps if You Have Been Accused

If you are being accused of any crime, your first step is to protect yourself by hiring a criminal defense attorney. Even if you believe the charges are false and will not happen, the sooner you obtain legal guidance, the more likely you are to protect yourself from the onset of substantial charges.

Know the Laws in Your State

When you are accused of identity theft, you may not even realize you did something wrong. That is because these are some of the fastest-moving laws today, changing as rapidly as the methods of such instances occur. You should know what you are accused of and if you did so. Some of the most common areas of confusion occur when you use another person’s credit card information or bank account information. If you suspect there is some level of miscommunication, that is going to be critical to understand and document.

Expect the Police to Investigate

A full criminal investigation is likely in a case like this. No matter how small or insignificant the incident appears to be, there will likely be full investigations completed in the case to determine what occurred and how. You can expect the court to issue evidence requests and for you to be questioned about what occurred and why. You will likely have evidence presented to you and you will need to provide insight into the details of what occurred.

Expect Your Attorney to Remain By Your Side

As you are questioned about what occurred or you work to navigate the legal rights you have in situations like this, know that your defense attorney will remain by your side. They will help you with all aspects of this investigation, including:

  • Answering questions from police at all levels
  • Working to prove the evidence is inaccurate
  • Gathering statements from witnesses
  • Working to understand the charges against you
  • Working to find a plea agreement, if necessary and possible
  • Defending you in a court of law at any appointment
  • Working to negotiate the best possible outcome in your case

Identity theft cases are challenging. When you are facing any questions about what you did or did not do, be sure you have an attorney by your side to guide you. Small mistakes or statements that are misunderstood can be used against you, and that can lead to ongoing struggles to prove your innocence in a case like this.

Work with a criminal defense attorney who can help protect your rights in these cases throughout the process.