New Hampshire Credit Card Fraud Lawyer
Identity theft is rampant in America. In response, the government has enacted harsher penalties for credit card fraud. If you find yourself facing these charges, you should consult with a New Hampshire credit card fraud lawyer, who understands the complex issues raised by these cases.
The rise of Internet merchants like Amazon and eBay has increased the number of at-home purchases. All too often, these purchases are made using stolen credit card information. If you have been charged with credit card fraud, get in touch with a skilled fraud attorney that can build a solid defense for you.
What Is Credit Card Fraud?
Credit card fraud is a form of theft. Depending on the value of the allegedly stolen merchandise, fraud can be classified as a misdemeanor or felony. A conviction for credit card theft can deeply affect a person’s future.
Dealing with criminal charges can be devastating. Individuals can lose their freedom for an extended time, or pay monetary damages, which could impact their career and family. Students facing credit card fraud may lose job opportunities, face expulsion, or be denied loans due to effected credit history.
Depending on the circumstances surrounding the case, credit card fraud can be prosecuted by federal or state authorities. Fraud involving Internet purchases that crossed state lines will likely be federal jurisdiction. Federal penalties for credit card fraud convictions can result in up to 20 years in prison. Sentences vary depending on a number of factors, most notably the number of fraud allegations.
Types of Fraud
Credit card application fraud is a type of identity theft in which a criminal uses stolen or forged documents such as bank statements, utility bills, or government documents to open a credit card account under someone else’s name.
Another form of identity fraud is known as account takeover. This involves gathering information about an intended victim and then changing the victim’s address in order to control a fraudulent credit account.
In addition to possible prison time, those facing credit card fraud convictions may have to pay restitution, including any fees for fixing the victim’s credit record, as well as damages assessed to the defrauded financial institutions or insurance carriers.
Elements a Prosecutor Must Prove
The state must carry a heavy burden of proof in a criminal case regarding fraud. Prosecutors have to prove the defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The specific elements the government must prove are:
- The defendant illegally took a credit card or credit card number from another person
- This “misappropriation” was done with intent to use, sell or transfer it to a person other than the issuer or cardholder
- The defendant used the credit card to buy something of value
- The defendant intended to defraud the victim.
Misidentifications – where the police arrested the wrong person –are particularly frequent in theft cases. A New Hampshire credit card fraud lawyer can know the most effective ways of cross-examining identification witnesses and ensuring your rights.
Speaking with a New Hampshire Credit Card Fraud Attorney
New Hampshire credit card fraud lawyers will review your situation with care and understanding. They know that anyone can make a mistake, and that every criminal defendant is entitled to the most vigorous representation.
They will bring their intelligence, diligence and experience to bear in order to vindicate your rights. If you have been charged with credit card fraud in New Hampshire, contact skilled attorneys right away.