Identity Theft

About 9 million people have their identities stolen every year, according to the Federal Trade Commission. This type of white collar crime is often prosecuted aggressively, with the harshest penalties as the sought after outcome. In Miami and surrounding areas, the defense lawyers at the Cochran Firm South Florida will be on your side to fight against these punishments.

Why You Need a Defense Attorney

If you have been charged with identity theft, you need an experienced defense attorney to protect your rights and to resolve your case in the best way possible. Whether this is your first criminal offense or you have a criminal record, our attorneys have the resources, knowledge, experience and aggressive approach to handle your case.

If you are convicted of identity theft, you can face serious punishments, including:

• Prison time
• Fines
• Repayment to the victim
• Forfeiture of property used or intended to be used for a crime

In addition to these criminal consequences, you may face professional and social ramifications as well. Your professional reputation can be damaged and it may be difficult to find employment in the future. You may be scrutinized by friends and family members.

What is Identity Theft?

In Florida, if you take someone's identifying information without permission and use it, or intend to use it, for your own personal gain, you may be charged with identity theft, a 3rd degree felony in the state.

In identity theft crimes, the stolen identity may be used to:

• Make credit card purchases
• Buy cars, houses and other big purchases
• Pay utility bills
• Obtain employment
• Obtain a passport

Social security numbers, credit card numbers, bank account numbers and other personal information may be used in identity theft crimes.

Resolving Your Case

Identity theft is both a state and federal crime. Your defense attorney must have the experience to represent cases in the state and federal courts.

In Florida, the severity of your punishment may depend on a number of factors, including:

• If public records were used to commit a crime
• The amount of money involved
• Scope of the crime
• Past criminal convictions

The defense lawyers at the Cochran Firm South Florida will make sure your rights are protected throughout the duration of your case. We will investigate the details of your case to develop a legal strategy to resolve it. Depending on your case, we may be able to fight for dropped charges or reduced criminal consequences.

If you are looking for a defense lawyer in Miami, Fort Myers, Ft Lauderdale, or nearby areas of Florida, please contact the Cochran Firm South Florida to schedule a consultation.