Erie Identity Theft Lawyer

Erie Identity Theft Attorney

Dealing with identity theft charges can be an overwhelming event. If you are accused of stealing somebody’s identity to discredit or steal from someone, you may not know what to do next. Your next move should be to contact an Erie identity theft lawyer who can help you build up a substantial case and defend yourself.

The legal team at The Levenson Law Firm understands how difficult it can be to be accused of identity theft. Many times, you may not even know who is accusing you or why. You may only know that you need to start defending yourself, or your situation can get exponentially worse. You will want to recruit an experienced lawyer who can help you craft a solid defense against these serious allegations.

What Is Identity Theft?

Identity theft occurs when somebody uses another person’s personal identification information without their permission. This is generally done to commit fraud in their name or to steal from them without their knowledge. They might use their name, social security number, credit card number, or even their date of birth to commit this fraud. Seeking accountability for such actions is quite common.

According to a 2024 report by the Federal Trade Commission, cases of identity theft are not rare in this country. In Pennsylvania alone, there were over 184,000 reported cases of fraud, including identity theft, in 2023. Dealing with charges of identity theft can put a serious strain on your mental and emotional health.

Statute of Limitations

Before someone can move forward with legal action in an identity theft case, it is vital that they make sure their case adheres to the state of Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations on identity theft cases. The statute of limitations is different depending on whether criminal or civil charges are being pursued against you. For a criminal case, the statute of limitations for identity theft is six years. That means the state has six years to bring charges and initiate criminal prosecution.

However, if someone is pursuing civil charges against you, the statute of limitations for identity theft is four years from the date of the offense or four years from the date that the offense was discovered. That means they will have four years to establish grounds for their claim, put together a strong enough case against you, gather the evidence they need, consult with an identity theft lawyer, and file a claim for compensatory damages.

If they are not able to file their claim before four years have passed, they may have to accept the fact that their case will not proceed. It will likely be dismissed entirely, and their chance to pursue damages for what happened will pass by without any legal action taken whatsoever. Building a strong identity theft case can take time, as identity theft can often be difficult to prove. Meanwhile, you can use that time to start developing a strong defense with a lawyer’s help.

What to Do if You Are Arrested

If you are arrested for identity theft in Erie, Pennsylvania, you will most likely be transported to the Erie County Prison at 1618 Ash Street in Erie for processing. It is important to exercise your right to remain silent at this time to avoid incriminating yourself. Comply with law enforcement and remain calm, but request your lawyer as soon as you can and allow them to communicate on your behalf.

FAQs

Q: How Much Does a Lawyer Cost for Identity Theft?

A: How much it may cost you to hire a lawyer for an identity theft case can vary widely. Every identity theft case is different, with each case having its own specific contributing factors that make every case a unique experience. Your lawyer’s fee will largely be influenced by the complexity of the case, whether your lawyer charges a flat rate or an hourly fee, and the lawyer’s own education, experience, and resources.

Q: What Type of Lawyer Do I Need for Identity Theft?

A: If you are being charged with identity theft, you will want to hire an Erie criminal defense lawyer. Preferably, you will want to hire one who has a track record of success with identity theft defense cases. Depending on whether you are facing criminal or civil charges, a skilled defense lawyer can be the most effective advocate to champion your case and protect your future.

Q: How Do You Beat an Identity Theft Case?

A: There are many different ways you may be able to beat an identity theft case. First and foremost, you need to hire an exceptional defense lawyer who understands all that is at stake for you and is skilled at crafting strong defense tactics for this type of charge. Part of your defense may be proving a lack of intent, mistaken identity, a strong alibi, or an unlawful search and seizure. It depends entirely on the details of your case and what can be done to fight the charges.

Q: Do I Really Need a Defense Lawyer?

A: Yes, you will really need a defense lawyer. Identity theft charges can be significant, and you could face severe legal repercussions if you are convicted. Without the help of a lawyer, you might face the maximum penalties available for this type of crime. If you are convicted, you will have a criminal record that will follow you forever. A good lawyer can help you avoid the severe consequences that can occur from an identity theft conviction.

Contact an Identity Theft Lawyer Today

Facing an identity theft charge can be quite serious. It can cause severe damage to your reputation, and a criminal conviction could cause even more. The last thing you want is to serve prison time or pay a hefty fine. An effective and dedicated criminal defense lawyer, well-versed in Pennsylvania’s identity theft law, can help you mount a solid defense.

The legal team at The Levenson Law Firm can provide you with the resources you need to fight these charges and protect your rights and future. Contact us to speak to a valued member of our legal team to see what we can do for your case.