SEATTLE IDENTITY THEFT ATTORNEYS – FREE CONSULTATIONS
IDENTITY THEFT UNDER WASHINGTON LAW
RCW 9.35.020 is the Washington statute that defines identity theft. Under this statute, a defendant can be convicted of the crime if a prosecutor proves two elements. These are:
- The accused knowingly obtained, possessed, used or transferred a means of identification or financial information of another person (either living or dead); and,
- He did so with the intent to commit, or to aid or assist in, any crime.
Some items of “identification or financial information” that are used in identity theft offenses include:
- Names;
- Addresses;
- Driver’s license information;
- Social Security numbers; and,
- Credit card numbers.
AGGRESSIVE DEFENSE AGAINST IDENTITY THEFT CHARGES IN WASHINGTON
An identity theft charge can put your freedom, finances, and future at risk. Washington prosecutors take these allegations seriously, and a conviction can lead to significant prison time, steep fines, restitution, and a permanent criminal record. If you have been accused of identity theft, it is important to speak with an experienced Seattle criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
At Black & Askerov, our criminal defense lawyers have decades of combined experience defending clients against felony and misdemeanor charges throughout Washington. We understand how identity theft investigations are built, and we know how to challenge the prosecution’s evidence. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FIRST- AND SECOND-DEGREE IDENTITY THEFT?
There are two types of identity theft offenses charged in Washington. These are:
- Identity theft in the first degree; and,
- Identity theft in the second degree.
The difference between the two is related to the amount of financial loss or harm that takes place.
Identity theft in the first degree is charged if a person commits the offense and obtains money, goods, or something else of value that is in excess of $1,500. This crime is a class B felony. It is punishable by:
- Up to 10 years in prison; and/or,
- A maximum fine of $20,000.
Identity theft in the second degree is charged if a person commits the crime and obtains money, goods, or something else of value that is equal to or less than $1,500. This offense is a class C felony. It is punishable by:
- Up to five years in prison; and/or,
- A maximum fine of $10,000.
LEGAL DEFENSES TO CHARGES OF IDENTITY THEFT
Luckily, there are legal defenses that a defendant can raise to try to beat accusations of identity theft. A successful defense can work to reduce or even dismiss a charge. One common, and effective, defense is for a defendant to show that while he may have obtained someone’s identification information, he did so by accident and not with the intent to commit a crime.
Please note, however, that it will take an experienced criminal defense attorney to raise the best defenses. The attorneys at Black Law, PLLC, have over 20 years of combined experience defending clients on identity theft charges. These same Washington theft lawyers are dedicated to their clients and passionate in their representation. Please contact them now to get the legal defense that you deserve.
WHY YOU NEED AN EXPERIENCED CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY
Identity theft investigations often involve extensive financial records, electronic evidence, computer data, surveillance footage, and witness testimony. Prosecutors frequently rely on digital evidence that may be incomplete, inaccurate, or obtained unlawfully.
An experienced criminal defense attorney can:
- Examine the prosecution’s evidence
- Challenge unlawful searches and seizures
- Review electronic and forensic evidence
- Negotiate with prosecutors
- Seek reduced or dismissed charges
- Represent you at trial if necessary
The earlier an attorney becomes involved, the greater the opportunity to protect your rights and develop a strong defense strategy.