Cherokee County Identity Theft Lawyer

We help people in their teens and twenties navigate identity theft charges in the criminal justice system. If you or a loved one has been charged with identity fraud in Cherokee County, GA, or any of the surrounding areas, contact our office immediately to get help.

Were You Charged with Identity Theft in Georgia?

In Georgia, identity theft is formally called “identity fraud” and carries serious penalties. The state defines identity fraud as willfully and fraudulently:

• Using or possessing someone else’s identifying information without authorization
• Using identifying information of a minor under your custodial authority
• Using or possessing identifying information of a deceased person
• Creating or using counterfeit/fictitious identifying information
• Accepting identification information you know to be fraudulent

Identity theft cases often involve allegations of using someone’s personal information for financial gain, opening credit accounts, making purchases, obtaining loans, or even interacting with law enforcement using another person’s identity.

Consequences of Identity Theft Charges

Identity fraud in Georgia is typically charged as a felony. Penalties can include:

• 1-10 years in prison
• Substantial fines
• Restitution to victims
• Probation and community service
• A permanent felony record

Beyond the legal penalties, a conviction for identity theft can severely limit your future opportunities. Many employers, educational institutions, and housing applications screen for fraud-related convictions making this charge particularly damaging for young adults just starting their careers.

Common Scenarios Leading to Identity Theft Charges

Young adults are often charged with identity theft in situations like:

• Using a parent’s credit card without permission
• Sharing login credentials that lead to unauthorized purchases
• Creating fake IDs for purchasing alcohol
• Accessing another person’s accounts or information online
• Using someone else’s information on applications or documents

It’s important to note that Georgia law does provide a limited exception for those under 21 who use false identification only to enter establishments or purchase age-restricted items. However, this exception doesn’t protect against other forms of identity fraud.

How Our Cherokee County Defense Team Addresses Identity Theft Cases

Identity theft allegations often involve complex digital evidence, financial records, and questions of intent. Our legal team has experience navigating these complicated cases to build strong defenses for our clients.

Some common defense strategies in identity theft cases include:

• Challenging the evidence of fraudulent intent
• Examining whether there was authorization to use the information
• Investigating how the alleged victim’s information was obtained
• Addressing technical issues with digital evidence
• Exploring possible mistaken identity scenarios

Facing identity theft charges in Cherokee County or one of the neighboring areas? Time is not on your side. It’s time to act now. Contact us today.

Our Team’s Approach to Identity Theft Defense

Our approach to defending your identity theft charges entirely depends on your goals.

While some law firms will tell you they have a particular way of handling every case, we won’t do that. The strategy that is developed for your case must be in alignment with your short-term and long-term goals. If we determine that it makes sense for you and our team to work together, then we will spend time getting to know and understand your goals.

When you work with our team, we start by learning:

• Where you are in life right now
• What your plans are for your future
• Your specific goals for this case
• How this situation could impact your life in both the short and long term

With identity theft charges, we recognize that many of our young adult clients may have made mistakes without fully understanding the legal consequences. We focus on developing solutions that protect your future rather than defining you by a single error in judgment.

In some identity theft cases, we explore:

• Diversion programs that may lead to dismissed charges
• First offender programs to avoid a permanent conviction
• Negotiated plea agreements that minimize long-term consequences
• Restitution arrangements that demonstrate accountability

Each case is unique, and we’ll work with you to develop a personalized approach that aligns with your specific goals and circumstances.

Take the Next Step — Learn How We Can Help With Your Identity Theft Case

If you or someone you care about is facing identity theft or identity fraud charges, contact our legal team to see if we can help. Meet with a member of our team to learn what your best next steps are.

Take the next step to protect your future. Call our office now to get started.