The Crime of Identity Theft:
An 'Add-On Crime'
If you are charged with theft by lying, committing fraud, credit card theft, or bank account fraud — you could be charged with identity theft as well as the original theft or fraud charges.
Identity theft charges are often pursued vigorously by prosecutors, because the theft can be so costly to society and also because identity theft crimes often leave an electronic or paper trail that may make it relatively easy to track down a suspect.
Just as police and prosecutors energetically chase after identity theft criminals, as an experienced criminal defense lawyer, I zealously defend any of my clients who are accused of identity theft crimes.
I don't care what you're accused of doing. I care about keeping the cops and prosecutors in line and fighting for a not-guilty verdict or acceptable plea bargain.
What To Do if you Are Under Investigation for Identity Theft
If you are being investigated — or have already been arrested — for an identity theft or white collar crime like theft by trick or fraud, follow the advice of an experienced and savvy criminal defense lawyer:
- Don't say anything to the cops except your name, Social Security number if you have one, date of birth, address, and "I want to call a criminal defense lawyer."
- Other than keeping quiet, cooperate with the cops.
- Contact me immediately for help.
What Kinds of Crimes Are Identity Theft Crimes?
Many types of theft and fraud crimes may also carry charges of identity theft:
- Stealing credit cards or credit card numbers
- Internet fraud using a false identity
- False impersonation
- Stealing Social Security numbers
- Phishing
- Making or selling false identification
Talk to a Savvy Southside Chicago Criminal Defense Lawyer About Identity Theft
I have more than 25 years of legal experience, and I have practiced criminal law on both sides of the fight. I worked for three years as a prosecuting attorney before I opened my private criminal defense practice in 1994. If you have been arrested on a charge of any type of identity theft crime and want sound legal advice — get in touch with me immediately.
