Tampa Credit Card Fraud Defense Lawyer
Our Tampa Credit Card Fraud Defense Lawyer Defends Your Freedom
For many people charged with credit card fraud, the charges come as a surprise. A simple mistake could end up costing you thousands of dollars, land you in jail, and even affect your career prospects. Being convicted of credit card fraud may make it harder to get loans or any finance-related job. You deserve the best defense to clear your name and mitigate any penalties. Our Tampa credit card fraud defense lawyer protects you during the criminal process and seeks the best possible outcome in your case.
The attorneys at Stechschulte Nell work hard to defend people accused of credit card fraud. We investigate the situation to find possible defenses and evidence in your favor. We use our extensive knowledge of Florida and federal laws to help achieve the best possible outcome in your case. Contact us today for a consultation.
Legal Defense For Credit Card Fraud
Credit card fraud is a serious offense. You could face both state and federal charges. Florida defines credit card fraud as a form of identity theft involving using a credit or debit card or similar credit information for financial gain with the intention of avoiding payment. Credit card fraud can take many forms, and it’s not unusual for many of our clients to make a genuine mistake and end up in deep legal trouble. However, even if your charges weren’t because of a mistake, we still want to protect your rights and defend you in court. Our firm believes that everyone is entitled to the best possible defense if they have been charged with a crime.
Common types of charges we can defend you against include:
- Account takeover: One person obtains the personal information of another, then calls their credit card company to report a lost or stolen card and request a new one. The card is then shipped to a fake address and used for illegal charges.
- Fraudulent applications: Unlawfully obtained personal information, including names, addresses, places of employment, and social security numbers, to apply for new credit cards.
- Physical credit card theft: Using a stolen credit card for purchases before the owner reports it missing.
- Skimming: Lifting data from the credit card’s magnetic strip (such as installing a card reader on a merchant point-of-sale system or from a detection device) to make purchases online, by mail, or over the phone, or to create counterfeit physical cards to make fraudulent purchases.
- Theft of a card in transit: Thieves intercept a new credit card on its way to the rightful owner and use it for fraudulent purchases.
Other charges could include using a credit card to defraud a merchant or opening a line of credit with the intention of not paying it back.
Let Our Legal Team Help You Defend Against Fraud Charges
Penalties for credit card fraud often depend on the value of the amount stolen. Our Tampa credit card fraud defense lawyer can help defend you against misdemeanor and felony credit card fraud charges, mitigating the penalties you face and helping you avoid jail time. At Stechschulte Nell, we investigate the charges against you, building a strong case for your innocence. We represent you in court, protect you during police questioning, and strive to mitigate the penalties of credit card fraud charges. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
Credit Card Fraud Penalties In Florida
Credit card fraud is a serious criminal offense in Florida, carrying severe penalties that can impact your future. Under Florida Statute 817.61, using a stolen, forged, altered, or unauthorized credit or debit card to obtain goods, services, or money is illegal. The penalties depend on the number of fraudulent transactions and the amount of money involved.
The consequences can be serious even if you’re “only” charged with a misdemeanor offense. The advice and protection of our Tampa credit card fraud defense lawyer can help mitigate or avoid these penalties for credit card fraud:
- Misdemeanor Credit Card Fraud: If an individual commits fewer than two fraudulent transactions within six months or obtains less than $100, it is a first-degree misdemeanor. Penalties include up to one year in jail, one year of probation, and a $1,000 fine.
- Felony Credit Card Fraud: If there are two or more fraudulent transactions within six months or the amount is $100 or more, it becomes a third-degree felony. Convictions can result in up to five years in prison, five years of probation, and a $5,000 fine.
A conviction for credit card fraud can also lead to long-term consequences, including a criminal record, loss of employment opportunities, and financial hardship. If you face charges, contact Stechschulte Nell to protect your rights and fight for your future.
Collateral Consequences Of A Credit Card Fraud Conviction In Florida
A credit card fraud conviction in Florida carries more than just criminal penalties—it can have lasting consequences that impact every aspect of your life. Even after serving jail time or paying fines, you may face significant challenges that make it difficult to move forward.
One of the biggest consequences is a permanent criminal record, which can affect employment opportunities. Many employers conduct background checks, and a fraud conviction can make it difficult to secure a job, especially in positions involving finance, customer service, or handling sensitive information.
Your financial future may also be affected. A conviction can make obtaining loans, credit cards, or housing harder, as landlords and financial institutions often review criminal histories before approving applications.
Additionally, you could face professional licensing issues. If you hold a license in fields such as healthcare, law, real estate, or finance, a fraud conviction may result in suspension or revocation, ending your career.
Non-citizens may face immigration consequences, including possible deportation or denial of citizenship.
In some of these situations, our Tampa credit card fraud defense lawyer can help minimize the repercussions, although it depends on your situation and charges.
If you have been charged with credit card fraud, it is crucial to work with the skilled attorneys at Stechschulte Nell, who can fight to minimize these consequences and protect your future. Please contact our firm today for a consultation.
