Identity Theft in PA is a serious felony offense. It just sounds nasty on your criminal record. Who is going to hire someone with that type of charge on their record? A conviction for the crime is like a diamond, it lasts forever. You have to be extremely careful with who you pick to handle this case because picking wrong can ruin your life. When people ask “Who is the best Identity Theft defense attorney near me?” The people have spoken, it’s The McShane Firm
Charges Dismissed
With any guilty verdict on any charge I would have been given 20 months of back time in a PA DOC Facility. Your firm gave me another chance. I will recommend you to anyone who wants their own second chance.
BS
Without a doubt, the BEST Criminal law defense attorneys around! Choosing The McShane Firm for DUI defense was one of the best decisions of my life. Literally. They’re smart, look at case details in depth, and treat you like family.
R.M.
The McShane Firm is hands down the best criminal defense and DUI defense firm in Central PA. I have worked with them and have referred many others. They not only use the law but modern science and technology to resolve your case. Don’t fall for the goofy commercials with catchy jingles!! These men and women are the ture professionals you not only want, but NEED on your side. 5 stars aren’t enough!!
T.S.
Amazing team!
Corey and Cassandra did everything I could have ever hoped for! I had never been in any kind of trouble before and had tons and tons of questions. No matter how many times I contacted them, they were so quick to get me an answer and help me through so such a stressful time. I got exactly the outcome I was looking for (probably even better to be honest) and it was a very quick resolution as well. I would 100% recommend them to anyone in need of an attorney. I cannot thank them enough!
Jazz
The Law
You can read the exact law here: Identity Theft 18 P.S. § 4120
When selecting which attorney to hire, please consider:
- Can you call anytime and talk to a live person?
- Do they offer payment plans with no credit checks?
- Will your attorney be attentive and explain what’s going on?
At The McShane Firm, we answer yes to all of these questions. We strive to provide you with a great customer service experience during this tough time.
What the government needs to prove:
Identity Theft is a very simple statute, but the devil is in the details. As we will see.
Remember at all times, if the government has charged you with any crime including Identity Theft, you are innocent in the eyes of the law. Before you start the eternal you are Not Guilty. You remain that way unless the government can present a mountain of evidence proving your guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. In order to convict you the government must prove the following:
- the accused
- possessed or used,
- through any means,
- identifying information of another person
- without the consent of that other person
- to further any unlawful purpose.
(b) Separate offenses.–Each time a person possesses or uses identifying information in violation of subsection (a) constitutes a separate offense under this section. However, the total values involved in offenses under this section committed pursuant to one scheme or course of conduct, whether from the same victim or several victims, may be aggregated in determining the grade of the offense.
What is The McShane Difference?
- We take time to understand your personal needs and goals. Then we cater our legal strategy to fit you.
- We care about you. We listen and return phone calls. We will take time to explain things so you are not left anxious in the dark.
- We will make this as easy as possible. We will try to minimize the number of times you have to be in court which means less disruption of your work and family life.
Does this sound like what you are looking for in an attorney? If yes, then take the next step and call (717) 657-3900.
Maximum Penalties
This is where your choice of defense attorney could save you years.
Due to cases both in the Supreme Court of the United States and also the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, the enhanced maximum for cases involving amount of the loss is very likely unconstitutional. The amount of loss is not an element of the crime and as such is never put or proven to a jury beyond a reasonable doubt.
On the books, the amount of the loss controls the maximum penalty, but as mentioned above, the government likely cannot enhance the penalty.
So here is what the law says:
- less than $2,000, the offense is a misdemeanor of the first degree;
- if the total value involved was $2,000 or more, the offense is a felony of the third degree;
- regardless of the total value involved, if the offense is committed in furtherance of a criminal conspiracy as defined in section 903 (relating to criminal conspiracy), the offense is a felony of the third degree; or
- regardless of the total value involved, if the offense is a third or subsequent offense under this section, the offense is a felony of the second degree.
- When a person commits an offense under subsection (a) and the victim of the offense is 60 years of age or older, a care-dependent person as defined in section 2713 (relating to neglect of care-dependent person) or an individual under 18 years of age, the grading of the offense shall be one grade higher than specified in paragraph (1).
Our Clients are entitled to a Bill of Rights which states:
- Our clients have the right to expect, we will be proactive in communication. You will hear it from us first. We will return all phone calls, texts and emails promptly.
- Our clients have the right to expect plain speaking, straight shooting. No B. S.
- Our clients have the right to expect us to do it right the first time, every time.
- Our clients have the right to expect us to be on time and professionally prepared for all court appearances, and all meetings.
- Our clients have the right to expect that they will be fully informed at all times.
This is our promise to you. Call today to get us on your side: (717) 657-3900.
But because of the rulings we talked about above, the crime most likely will never be properly graded above a misdemeanor of the first degree. So, the maximum is properly not more than 5 years and $10,000.00
Beyond the instant concerns you likely have about jail, probation, fines and costs, you need to be aware of Misdemeanor Conviction Consequences in Pennsylvania and Felony Conviction Consequences in Pennsylvania
