Weston Identity Theft Lawyer
If you are facing accusations of identity theft, it is wise to consult a Weston identity theft lawyer early on to learn how to protect your rights and avoid actions or statements that could be used against you later.
How Does Fairfield, CT Define Identity Theft?
Under Connecticut General Statutes (C.G.S.) §53a-129a, an alleged offender can be found guilty of identity theft if they used “personal identifying information” belonging to another person to obtain:
- Goods
- Money
- Services
- Credit
- Property
- Medical information
Attempting to obtain any of these items is considered identity theft just as if the attempt had succeeded. However, the action must be taken without consent in order to constitute identity theft under the definition.
Personal identifying information includes features such as driver’s license number, account numbers, mother’s maiden name, health insurance identification numbers, and taxpayer information. Biometric information such as fingerprints is also considered personal identifying information for purposes of identity theft.
What Are the Degrees of Identity Theft?
When someone commits identity theft as defined in C.G.S. §53a-129a with no aggravating factors present, the crime is treated as a Class D felony as identity theft in the third degree. This offense is punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
If the same person commits identity theft against a victim aged 60 or over, the crime becomes either first or second-degree identity theft. If the value of the property taken through identity theft involving a person aged 60 or more exceeds $5,000, then the offense is treated as identity theft in the first degree, a Class B felony. If the property is worth $5,000 or less, then the crime is second-degree identity theft, which is a Class C felony.
Identity theft from an individual under age 60 is a class C felony if the amount involved is $5,000 or more and a Class B felony when the amount is $10,000 or higher. The maximum sentence for a Class B felony includes 20 years in prison and a fine as high as $15,000. For a Class C felony, those convicted face up to ten years of imprisonment and a maximum fine of $10,000. An identity theft lawyer in Weston can seek alternative penalties or present mitigating factors to reduce potential penalties.
Work with a Skilled Weston Identity Theft Attorney
Working with an experienced Weston identity theft lawyer early in the process gives an attorney the most opportunities to use all available strategies to achieve a positive outcome in your case. To learn more about how an identity theft defense lawyer could help you, call the Mark Sherman Law offices today.