Dismantling Identity Theft Charges: Our Aggressive Approach

Illinois has strong consumer protection laws that work in conjunction with identity theft laws to safeguard residents. Under state law, identity theft is knowingly using another person’s personal information or identification document to fraudulently obtain credit, money, goods, services or other property. Additionally, identity theft includes using such information with intent to commit any felony.

If faced with identity theft charges, you need skilled identity theft defense attorneys on your side. At Pissetzky Law LLC, our lawyers bring over 20 years of criminal defense experience to your case. Our aggressive approach and passion for litigation make us formidable advocates in the courtroom.

Illinois’ Penalties And Enhanced Penalties For Identity Theft Charges

At both the state and federal level, identity theft is a serious crime. The penalties can vary significantly based on the circumstances of the case.

Here’s an overview of the potential consequences in Illinois:

• Class 4 felony: For identity theft not exceeding $300 in value (Up to three years in prison, fines up to $25,000)
• Class 3 felony: For identity theft exceeding $300 but not exceeding $2,000 in value (Two to five years in prison, fines up to $25,000)
• Class 2 felony: For identity theft exceeding $2,000 but not exceeding $10,000 in value (Three to seven years in prison, fines up to $25,000)
• Class 1 felony: For identity theft exceeding $10,000 but not exceeding $100,000 in value (Four to 15 years in prison, fines up to $25,000)
• Class X felony: For identity theft exceeding $100,000 in value (Six to 30 years in prison, fines up to $25,000)

Enhanced penalties may apply in cases involving active-duty armed service members, repeat offenses or when the crime involves multiple victims within a 12-month period.

If convicted at the federal level, a defendant faces:

• A maximum term of 15 years’ imprisonment
• Significant fines
• Criminal forfeiture of any personal property used or intended to be used to commit the offense

What Is Aggravated Identity Theft In Illinois?

Aggravated identity theft is a more severe form of fraud recognized under Illinois law. This charge applies when identity theft is committed:

• Against a person 60 years of age or older
• Against a person with a disability
• As part of gang-related activities

The penalties for aggravated identity theft are even more severe. They include:

• Class 3 felony for amounts not exceeding $300 (two to five years in prison)
• Class 2 felony for amounts exceeding $300 but not exceeding $10,000 (three to seven years in prison)
• Class 1 felony for amounts exceeding $10,000 but not exceeding $100,000 (four to 15 years in prison)
• Class X felony for amounts exceeding $100,000 (six to 30 years in prison)

Fines can be up to $25,000 for all classes of felony. In addition, restitution may be ordered by Illinois courts in identity theft cases. This could include compensating victims for their financial losses, paying for credit monitoring services and covering costs related to correcting credit reports.

A Complex Identity Theft Case Demands Aggressive Defense – Contact Pissetzky Law LLC, Today

Illinois prosecutes identity theft cases even when part of the crime occurs outside the state. This broad jurisdiction applies when either the victim or perpetrator resides in Illinois. Such expansive legal reach complicates these cases, but our skilled identity theft defense attorneys are well-equipped to handle them.

Whether you’re dealing with accusations of credit card fraud, forgery or any other form of identity theft, we’re prepared to fight aggressively on your behalf. Our identity theft defense attorneys have over 20 years of experience handling felony and federal cases involving even the most complex identity theft charges.

To schedule a consultation, contact our Chicago or Northbrook office today by calling 312-239-8292 or completing our online form.

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