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Penalties for Identity Theft in NJ

Penalties for Identity Theft in NJ

New Jersey takes identity theft seriously. This means that if you are convicted, you could receive required jail time and expensive fines.

What is Identity Theft?

Identity theft is when a person steals the identity of another person. This may include stealing information like:

  • Legal name
  • Driver’s license ID number
  • Credit card number
  • Visa number

Stealing this information is usually done with the goal of taking out credit in someone else’s personal name. They may do this to get a credit card or obtain a bank account.

Potential Consequences of Identity Theft in New Jersey

The potential consequences of identity theft in New Jersey can be life-changing and lead to jail time or expensive fines. The legal implications of identity theft in New Jersey are categorized into the following types:

  • Fourth-degree: A fourth-degree charge includes theft with a value of less than $500 or one victim, and it is the offender’s first offense. This can lead to up to 18 months in prison and fines up to $10,000.
  • Third-degree: A third-degree charge includes theft with a value of up to $500, but less than $75,000 that includes between two – four victims. This can lead to up to five years in prison and fines up to $15,000.
  • Second-degree: A second-degree charge includes theft with a value of up to $75,000 or between three – five victims. This can lead to up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $150,000.

Additionally, some cases of identity theft that include falsifying information to obtain government documents may automatically be considered second-degree. One of the biggest variations in consequences you receive is based on the theft value. This can include both tangible and intangible theft.

What is Credit Card Theft?

Credit card theft may also receive consequences similar to that of identity theft. It can also include anything from a misdemeanor to felony charges. Most cases of credit card theft are considered a fourth-degree charge, which means you will receive up to 18 months in prison and fines up to $10,000.

Credit card theft may include using false statements to get a credit card, altering the strip of a credit card, using someone else’s card without permission, or using the internet in any way to steal credit card numbers or other personal information.

Dealing With Identity Theft Charges?

If you are dealing with identity theft charges, it is important that you reach out to a lawyer as soon as possible. Not only is it important to consider the potential implications that you may receive, including jail time, it is also necessary to consider the financial costs involved. In addition to the expensive fines you may be subject to, you may also be required to pay restitution or cover any financial losses that you cause.

Having a criminal record can also affect your future. You may find that your employment options are limited with identity theft charges. For this reason, you need to consider your options as soon as possible.

Contact an Experienced Union County Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Identity Theft Charges in New Jersey

Were you arrested or charged with identity theft in New Jersey? The consequences of a conviction could be severe, leaving you with a permanent criminal record and possibly even sending you to jail. That is why you need to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible about your case. The attorneys at Zegas Law have successfully represented clients in Essex County, Union County, Morris County, Middlesex County, and throughout New Jersey. Call (973) 379-1999 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We have an office conveniently located at 60 Morris Turnpike, Summit, NJ 07901.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.

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