Identity Theft Attorney in Philadelphia

Identity theft is undoubtedly one of the world’s fastest-growing crimes, affecting millions of Americans yearly. So it should be no surprise that judges, juries, and prosecutors have no sympathy for individuals convicted of this crime.

Philadelphia prosecutors have become highly aggressive in their efforts to charge individuals with identity theft crimes due to an increase in technological advancements to boost conviction rates. Without question, identity theft is a serious problem in our country. So, too, is receiving an unfair trial filled with overly aggressive prosecution.

Identity Theft is a serious crime and must be met with equally serious Criminal Defense in all cases.  However, how grave this offense is depends on multiple factors. The disparity between each type of Identity Theft grading is significant – you may be charged anywhere between a Misdemeanor and a Felony of the Second Degree.

In Pennsylvania, Identity Theft is usually a Felony of the Third Degree, punishable by up to 7 years in jail and a significant fine. In some cases, however, the grading of Identity Theft can increase to a Felony of the Second Degree, punishable by up to 10 years in jail. Finally, in a few rare cases, Identity Theft can be graded as a Misdemeanor of the First Degree, punishable by up to 5 years in jail. It is important to consult an attorney as soon as you learn you have been charged with Identity Theft.

What Is Identity Theft?

Identity Theft is the use or possession, through any means, of a person’s personal identifying information, without their permission, for any purpose.

Personal identifying information can include social security numbers, birth dates, addresses, and even your mother’s maiden name. In other words, anything that uniquely identifies you can be considered personally identifying information. Merely having a person’s identifying information in your possession could make you liable for a crime.

Identity Theft is graded as follows:

  • A misdemeanor of the first degree when the total value involved is less than $2,000.
  • A felony of the third degree when the total value involved is $2,000 or more;
  • A felony of the third degree if it is in furtherance of a criminal conspiracy, regardless of the amount; and
  • A felony of the second degree if it is your third or subsequent offense.

Enhancements for Identity Theft

The Identity Theft statute in Pennsylvania is unique. It provides for specific enhancements if you fall under a set of classifications or use the information in a particular way.

One possible enhancement to this crime is that a person can be charged for each separate time that person uses or possesses another person’s identifying information. This means that each time a person runs a fraudulent credit card transaction, that person can be charged with a separate count of Identity Theft.

In a worst-case scenario, if a perpetrator uses a person’s identity 10 times on transactions that are less than $2,000, they can be charged with 10 counts of misdemeanor Identity Theft, which means they are now facing a maximum penalty of up to 50 years instead of just 5 years. As you can see, this enhancement can add to hefty penalties.

The greatest enhancement, however, comes into play when one uses or possesses the identifying information of anyone 60 years old or older. Anyone with this identifying information will receive an enhancement of up to one grade.

This means that if you merely possess the information of a 60-year-old person, and the value involved is under $2,000 (usually a misdemeanor of the third degree), your crime is now graded as a felony of the third degree. In the worst-case scenario, a person charged with their third offense, usually a felony of the second degree, carrying up to 10 years, can be charged with a felony of the first degree, carrying up to 20 years in jail.

Why Do I Need A Philadelphia Identity Theft Lawyer?

The Identity Theft statute is complicated and includes several enhancements. Considering both the complex nature of the law and the seriousness of the penalties, retaining counsel is a must. You definitely should not go at it alone.

The attorneys at The Law Offices of Greg Prosmushkin can help you formulate defenses and determine your best course of action. Our Philadelphia Criminal attorneys have decades of experience handling these cases and specialized knowledge of crimes involving Identity Theft. Call us today for a Free Consultation.