New York City Identity Theft Attorney
Aggressive White-Collar Crime Lawyer
Identity theft is a type of white-collar crime that can result in severe penalties. Mr. Bederow can help you fight the charges against you. He has over 20 years of experience in defending individuals charged with serious crimes. He is a former prosecutor, bringing valuable knowledge and allowing the opportunity to see how the other side thinks.
Identity theft can be executed in varying degrees. Identity theft in the third degree is when a person "assumes the identity of another with the intent to commit fraud." In such cases, the offender represents himself or herself as another person and behaves as if he or she is, in fact, the person.
Offenders use the personal identification information of the victim to perform the crime and complete one of the following actions:
- Receives property
- Acquires money
- Purchases goods
- Uses services
- Uses the victim's credit
- Causes financial loss
- Commits fraud (that is at least a Class A misdemeanor)
- This offense is charged as a Class A misdemeanor.
First-Degree Identity Theft
First-degree identity theft is chargeable if a person commits the forms above of identity theft; yet, this crime involves financial defrauding in amounts over two grand. The offense is also applicable when the offender commits, attempts to execute or serves as an accessory to a Class D felony or more. Moreover, if a person commits second-degree identity theft and has a previous conviction for a similar crime or larceny, he or she could be liable for a charge in the first degree. This charge in the first degree is deemed a Class D charge.
Illegal use of a credit card or debit card: A white-collar crime can also involve the illegal use a credit or debit card. A suspect can be convicted of this crime if he or she uses another's credit or debit card. This can also occur when one knowingly uses a card, which has been canceled or revoked, to obtain items or services. This crime, which is quite common, is punishable as a Class A misdemeanor.
Identity theft charges can stem from situations involving someone else's:
- Credit card
- Social Security card
- Identification
- Address
- Phone number
- Other personal information
NYC Criminal Defense Lawyer - Hard-Hitting, Aggressive Representation
We realize that every criminal charge starts with a set of facts that the state has decided the definition of a given offense. Mr. Bederow's experience provides us with an understanding of the prosecution's priorities and strategies. We can use this information to develop a defense that best fits the facts of your situation.
Any strategy we employ is aimed at getting the charges against you dismissed if possible. However, if conviction appears unavoidable, we will attempt to negotiate a reduction of charges or penalties. When necessary, we can consult with computer experts, forensic accountants, handwriting analysts, and other professionals.
To discuss how we can assist you with your identity theft charge or other white-collar crime charge, contact Mr. Bederow at (212) 256-9491 to schedule a confidential case evaluation.