Identity Theft Lawyer in Fort Myers
Have you been charged with identity theft?
Under the umbrella category of fraud, identity theft is one of the most commonly committed white collar crimes. Also known as identity fraud, identity theft is the act of stealing another person's identity in order to access their credit and other resources available under their name. This type of theft could include stealing any sort of personal identifying information such as their social security number, credit card number or their name, for personal financial gain or to commit fraud. In some cases, the victim of identity theft can suffer adversarial consequences as a result of the perpetrator's wrongdoings.
Identity theft is considered to be a federal offense that shockingly occurs more frequently that you would think. In fact, Florida is at high risk for fraud because it ranks #1 for identity theft complaints. Across the U.S., 1 in every 23 Americans fall victim to identity theft and then spends approximately 600 hours trying to recover their money. Crimes of this nature tend to attract ample media attraction and the local and federal governments are buckling down on these offenders by doing thorough investigations. In some cases, individuals commit identity theft in conjunction with evading law enforcement, by telling officials a false name at the time of arrest.
There are many different ways the personal information can be stole. The most common cases of identity theft are committed by:
- Pick pocketing
- Stealing a wallet or purse
- Rummaging through a person's trash
- Posing as a professional representative who would need this information
- Stealing information from unsecured sites on the internet
- Stealing personal mail
- Hacking into personal files
- Stealing cred card numbers with a card reader
- Taking advantage of personal company information
- Eavesdropping on personal financial transactions
What are the penalties for identity theft?
The law has very severe criminal penalties for convicted identity theft offenders. Under Florida code ยง 817.568, identity theft is a felony offense that is punishable for a minimum of ten years imprisonment and a fine up to $15,000. The offender may also be responsible for additional charges in accordance with any crimes they committed, while using the stolen identity. You may also be liable to pay restitution to the identity theft victim. If you have been charged with identity theft, you must act quickly and consult with a Fort Myers criminal defense attorney at Brian L. Edwards, Esq.
Here at the firm, we understand the severity of your situation. Mistakes happen and we are here to help. We have successfully defended countless individuals in the past who are facing the same severe circumstances as you. Attorney Edwards has former prosecution experience, which means that he is uniquely qualified to defend you. He has also litigated in hundreds of jury trials and we have a track record of success.
We defend against a multitude of criminal charges including white collar crimes and we will work tirelessly to have your charges reduced or discharged completely. Hire a trustworthy attorney who won't let you down! As a former assistant state attorney, Mr. Edwards has gained unique insight and knowledge and he knows how to build a tough defense against your charges. We will work tirelessly to obtain a favorable outcome in your case. Our firm offers a free case evaluation to all potential clients, so call today to discuss your case.
For tried and true defense, contact a Fort Myers criminal defense attorney from our firm today!
Hear It From Our Clients
Read How We Have Successfully Defended Our Clients in Past Cases
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"Great Lawyer!"Great Lawyer! Did a great job and would recommend him to anyone! He really has a passion for helping !- J. Sparks
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"He will go above and beyond for you!"He will go above and beyond for you!- Kimberly B.
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"Passionate, honest, and truthful in everything he did."Passionate, honest, and truthful in everything he did.- Cristina S.
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"If you need an attorney, call Brian!"If you need an attorney, call Brian!- Cynthia
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"He has saved my career due to his relentless commitment."He has saved my career due to his relentless commitment.- Past ClientQ
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"Getting the deal we wanted was just the icing on the cake . You answered all my questions and made me feel like you were really fighting for ME!!!"Brian i want to personally thank you AGAIN for all your hard work on such a VERY short notice . You did your thing and you did it fast ! The jugde was tough but in the end you got me the one thing i really wanted and needed ! I am forever thankful for you not treating me as just another piece of paper-- I felt as if You actually Do care about your clients. you're not fake, greedy or just rushing along. Not only were you PATIENT but you were PASSIONATE, HONEST and TRUTHFUL in everything you did for ME!! Those are the qualities you have that make a difference!!!! Getting the deal we wanted was just the icing on the cake . You answered all my questions and made me feel like you were really fighting for ME!!! I dont plan on ever needing an attorney again but anyone who gets in trouble in florida should definately look into you for their defense. With all your years of experience in florida law & being a former prosecutor YOU definately have the upper hand !!!! Thank you again !- Christina S
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"Brian Edwards is by far the most effective lawyer I have seen."GET THIS LAWYER!! Brian Edwards is by far the most effective lawyer I have seen. He has gone above and beyond for my case. He genuinely cares about his clients and will do whatever it takes to get the best possible outcome! As he has done for me. I could not have asked or dreamed of a better outcome for my case. If it wasn't for Brian I would still be in the system. I was on probation for controlled substance for the past 4 years, and Brian through his hardwork and determination got my probation completed and time served. I am a free man today because of his excellent help! Thank you so much Brian!- James B.
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"Brian is one of the area's best DUI attorneys."Brian is one of the area's best DUI attorneys.- Max B.
Recent Case Results
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Charge Reduced 2nd DUI
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Charges Dismissed Aggravated Assault
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No Jail Time Aggravated Battery
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Case Dismissed Aggravated Battery
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Probation Aggravated Battery
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Charge Reduced Aggravated Battery