Identity theft is when someone commits a crime by obtaining the personal or financial information (or both) of someone else to assume their identity to make purchases or transactions. At the Law Offices of John D. Kirby, we represent those that are facing identity theft charges in the State of California. During a consultation, we can explain the charges and listen to the details of your case.

Types of Identity Theft

Some types of identity theft include:

• Medical: This occurs when someone uses someone else’s personally identifiable information to obtain medical service, prescription drugs or medical insurance coverage fraudulently.
• Criminal: Criminal identity theft occurs when someone gives false information to police when they are arrested. If this fraud works, the criminal charges could be filed against the identity theft victim.
• Financial: Financial identity theft is the most common type of identity theft. This is when someone tries to get a credit card, loan, or just buys things by claiming to be someone else. This can be damaging to a victim’s credit score.
• Child: This identity theft type happens when someone steals or misuses a minor’s personal information. They will use a child’s Social Security number to open lines of credit, get driver’s licenses, or even buy a house. a

Penalties associated with identity theft

Identity theft in California is charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor depending on your criminal history and the facts of your case. Someone convicted of misdemeanor identity theft will face up to one year in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both. A person convicted of felony faces up to three years in California state prison, a fine of up to $10,000, or both.

Call to Schedule a Free Consultation With a Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has been charged with identity theft, call to schedule a free consultation with a criminal defense lawyer. The experienced legal professionals at the Law Offices of John D. Kirby will investigate the facts of your case and give you an effective and strong defense that will help you get your charges dismissed or reduced. Call us at 619-557-0100 to speak with our friendly staff to schedule a consultation.