Identity Theft Defense Lawyer in Salt Lake City

Experienced Defense Against Identity Theft Charges in Utah

As more of life’s activities become digital allowing more people to make purchases on the Internet, personal information has also become more vulnerable. Incidents of identity theft have become more common, and as a result, have started to become aggressively prosecuted by law enforcement in Utah. If you are facing an identity theft charge, it is important to speak with Catherine Cleveland Attorney at Law immediately.

Identity theft accusations should not be treated lightly. Many people believe that there is a simple way out of this non-violent crime, but that is not the case. Identity theft is a felony that comes with lengthy prison sentences and heavy fines. Further, you could lose your job, struggle with securing housing, and ultimately lose trust among your friends and family.
Speak to me about your case as soon as possible. Call 801-936-0870 or fill out my online request form to schedule your free phone consultation!

What Is Identity Theft?

A person is guilty of identity theft, or identity fraud, when that person knowingly or intentionally uses or attempts to use, the personal identifying information of another person, whether that person is alive or deceased, with fraudulent intent, including to obtain, or attempt to obtain, credit, goods, services, employment, any other thing of value, or medical information. Multiple identity fraud violations may be combined into a single offense, and the degree of the offense is determined by the total value of all credit, goods, services, or any other thing of value used, or attempted to be used, through the multiple violations.

Identity fraud is a third-degree felony if the value of the credit, goods, services, employment, or any other thing of value is less than $5000. It is a second-degree felony if the value of the credit, goods, services, employment, or any other thing of value is or exceeds $5000, or the use of personal identifying information results, directly or indirectly, in bodily injury to another person.

What are the Penalties for Identity Theft in Utah?

If convicted of identity fraud, you may be required to pay restitution to any victim of the offense, which may include:

• Payment for any costs incurred, including attorney fees, lost wages, and replacement of checks
• The value of the victim’s lost time due to the offense:
  • Clearing their credit history or credit rating
  • Enduring administrative proceedings to resolve their debt
  • Remediating any other harm they suffered as a result of your alleged offense

In addition to restitution, you may face prison time and fines:

• Third-degree felony: Up to 5 years in prison and a maximum $5,000 penalty
• Second-degree felony: Up to 20 years in prison and a maximum $10,000 penalty

Needless to say, identity theft is a serious crime that requires my assertive, compelling defense. As such, count on Catherine Cleveland Attorney at Law to best prevent you from suffering the wrath of Utah law.

I served as a former judge pro tem, meaning I know how the other side of the table operates and analyzes court cases. I can leverage this experience to benefit your identity theft charge by devising high-caliber defense strategies that resonate with the judge and jury. As a result, you may have a higher chance of walking away free from your identity theft accusation.

Defenses Against Identity Theft Accusations

After analyzing the facts and details of your case, I will proceed to frame a hard-hitting defense strategy on your behalf. Each of the following defenses serves as a foundation that can be enhanced with compelling tactics:

• Lack of fraudulent intent
• The victim permitted you to use their identity
• Insufficient evidence
• You didn’t commit the crime

As a skilled identity theft defense attorney, I understand the impact identity theft charges can have on your rights, family and reputation. I have successfully represented Salt Law City clients for more than 20 years, resulting in a track record for noteworthy achievements and a myriad of satisfied clients. To me, your case is more than just a number, and I will fight to protect your rights throughout the entire course of your white collar criminal case.