Identity Theft

Floyd - Federal Crime Defense Attorneys in Houston, Harris County, Texas

In the face of life-altering consequences, a team of defense lawyers experienced in identity theft crimes (whether in Texas or at the federal level) can provide the defense that you need. At John T. Floyd Law Firm, the team of top-tier legal professionals specialize in defending clients in all criminal courts throughout Harris County, Texas, and across the country.

Identity Theft Defense Attorney in Harris County, Texas

Board-Certified in Criminal Law, Experienced in Federal Courts

If you have been accused of identity theft in Texas or at a federal level, the stakes could not be higher, with prosecution seeking the maximum punishment in the form of severe fines and prison time. Securing an experienced Houston criminal defense attorney immediately is critical to protect your rights and prevent damage to your life and reputation.

Identity theft is one of the fastest-growing crimes in recent years, with modern technologies contributing to sophisticated methods to access people’s personal information without their authorization. Due to this, the state and federal law enforcement agencies are on high alert and devoted to seeking maximum punishment for instances of this crime.

schedule a consultation

Defending You Against Identity Theft Charges in Harris County, Texas, and Across the Country

Are you or one of your loved ones being accused of identity theft? With severe punishments, fines, criminal records, and lifelong consequences on the line, your legal representation is paramount.

Defending against charges of identity theft (whether it is at a state or federal level) requires the expertise and knowledge that an experienced criminal defense attorney can provide. At John T. Floyd Law Firm, our defense attorneys provide expert, personalized, and strategic representation for your specific case, backed by more than 50 years of combined experience.

Are you or one of your loved ones being accused of identity theft? With severe punishments, fines, criminal records, and lifelong consequences on the line, your legal representation is paramount.

Defending against charges of identity theft (whether it is at a state or federal level) requires the expertise and knowledge that an experienced criminal defense attorney can provide. At John T. Floyd Law Firm, our defense attorneys provide expert, personalized, and strategic representation for your specific case, backed by more than 50 years of combined experience.

Expert, Board-Certified Defense

At John T. Floyd Law Firm, the team is led by State-recognized experts like John T. Floyd, a board-certified specialist in criminal law. If you’re facing an identity theft allegation, he and his team are the bonafide defense you need.

Communication Is a Priority

When you reach out to John T. Floyd Law Firm’s office after being accused of identity theft, you will receive a timely call back and all the information you need, whether you’re a previous or new client. For John and his team, it’s a priority to be helpful, honest, and solidary.

Decades of Experience

With more than 50 years of combined experience defending the accused of identity theft, John T. Floyd Law Firm successfully handles state and federal criminal cases. Their expertise demonstrates their capability when it comes to criminal defense for victims of false or wrong accusations.

Trust a Texas Identity Theft Defense Lawyer Who Understands State and Federal Law

In the United States, identity theft laws are complex, and their impact can vary significantly from case to case. Luckily, John T. Floyd and his team successfully handle these cases with years of expertise. They know exactly how to navigate the intricate world of federal and state identity theft laws and exactly what it takes to defend your rights and protect your future.

The first important detail to understand is that identity theft charges are not limited to cases involving stolen credit cards or financial fraud. Oftentimes, accused individuals are surprised to learn the full scope of what constitutes identity theft, incorrectly believing that because no direct financial loss occurred, they cannot be seriously prosecuted.

This is not always so. In the United States, an act can be considered identity theft as long as it involves the unauthorized use of another person’s identifying information, including any of the following:

A name, Social Security number, or date of birth.
Financial account numbers, passwords, or PINs.
Medical records, insurance information, or government-issued IDs.

Another common misconception is that identity theft cases are only prosecuted at the federal level. In fact, every U.S. state has its own identity theft statutes, meaning charges can be filed at the state level, the federal level, or both simultaneously — often resulting in compounded penalties.

In these types of cases, nothing is as straightforward as people tend to believe, which is why the charges can be so overwhelming. Still, if you are facing identity theft charges, it is critical that your attorney understands both the relevant federal and state laws so that you can mount the most effective defense possible.

See more Case Results

What Our Clients Have to Say

Based on Real and Verified Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

By hands down ! BEST customer service ! They are very helpful and just by having the first conversation with them you can tell how much they care about their clients! They are amazing and ready to lend a helping hand when needed the most. They truly are an angel sent . So if you need help and are looking for AWESOME and GREAT representation DO NOT hesitate in reaching out because they will try their best in helping/achieving results! 10000000% times 10 recommend!!!!

Miriam Flores

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The diligence brought to the table by these gentlemen is demonstrated deeply in their practice by the cohesive flow of information inside and out the court room to achieve desired outcomes. The awareness both gentlemen facilitated allowed proper communication and coordination in addressing obstacles as they arise

Richard Affongwaithe

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

John and his team are super professional and so dedicated to you. I would highly recommend the John T. Floyd law firm to anyone that needs legal assistance!

Brian G. Chavez

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

John T. Floyd and his team are some of the best people! I was able to get a second opinion from them on legal advice. His team has been honest, kind, and very informative which has been a huge blesssing.

Curtis Shane Kessler

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I asked the Law Office of John T. Floyd a very important question regarding the legal aspects of purchasing a firearm with a deferred adjudication charge. They answered the question very professionally and accurately and I was quite pleased with the information that was shared. I recommend this law firm because they are very honest and will work for you and with you.

Eugene Guy

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Although I didn’t use Mr. Floyd for my brother’s legal matter, I was steered in the right direction by speaking with Mrs. Kathy. She showed so much compassion as my family and I are going down a very tough road dealing with a different type of trouble. We sat on the phone for 20 minutes; she actually gave me a little comfort because my heart is heavy right now. I never got to meet Kathy, but thank you for your kindness, Mrs. Kathy!

Kimberly Le

Houston Defense Attorney John T. Floyd Law Firm: The Defense You Need in Your Identity Theft Case

According to our legal experts at John T. Floyd Law Firm, identity theft occurs when a person knowingly and willingly accesses and uses another’s personal identifying information (PII) without their authorization. This is usually considered a white collar crime, due to its typically non-violent nature and the fact that it tends to involve fraud or financial gain.

Identity Theft: a Federal or a State Offense

In addition to these criminal and civil sanctions that can be brought by law enforcement, the Medicare Program itself has administrative sanctions applicable to certain kinds of fraud and abuse.

At State Level

In Texas, identity theft is a serious felony. For instance, if an individual possesses PII from three or more people, the law presumes criminal intent. Also, fraudulent use or possession can be considered a felony offense, even if no money was stolen or if no purchase was made.

Identity theft charges in Texas carry consequences most realize once it’s too late. What might start as a minor dispute such as a billing error can escalate quickly into an investigation. The results can be devastating: prison time, asset forfeiture, and a permanent record. This is precisely why securing experienced legal representation at the earliest possible stage can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.

At Federal Level

This white collar crime is governed by statute 18 U.S.C. § 1028 at a federal level. According to this law, some forms of this crime can include:

Producing, using, or profiting from equipment to make fake IDs.
Using false or stolen IDs to defraud the U.S. government.
Producing or transferring false identification documents.
Possessing false or stolen identification documents.
Selling or transferring stolen or false IDs.

Federal identity theft charges come with severe mandatory minimum sentences, and prosecutors in these cases are often aggressive. John T. Floyd’s team understands how federal investigators build these cases and, more importantly, how to challenge them.

Whether your case is being handled at the state or federal level, or both, our team is prepared to fight for the best possible outcome on your behalf.

Do Not Talk to Federal Agents!

Our legal experts recommend that you do not speak to federal law enforcement agents regardless of their threads, promises, or any other technique designed to get you to talk. Even if you believe that you have done nothing wrong, a conversation with one of these agents can have serious consequences. If you are under investigation by federal agents regarding an identity theft crime, it is urgent that you contact an experienced federal criminal defense attorney immediately

Top-Tier Identity Theft Defense Attorney in Harris County, Texas, and Federal Courts Nationwide

In the United States,U.S. identity theft can give rise to charges in both state and federal courts. Local incidents are handled by state-level laws and enforcement agents, while federal charges are managed by federal-level laws and agents. Additionally, dual prosecution is also possible and requires expertise in both ends.

Whether you are facing state, federal charges, or both, the expertise of the team at John T. Floyd Law Firm allows them to represent you in Harris County, Texas, and in federal courts nationwide.

schedule a consultation

Depending on the nature of the crime, severity, charges, and laws that apply, the penalties for identity theft can carry severe lifelong consequences that go beyond the courtroom.

Possession of a False ID

Simple possession of a false identification document can go up to 1 year in prison and fines.

Connection With Other Crimes

Offenses connected to drug trafficking, violent or federal crimes can go up to 20 years of imprisonment and fines.

Production or Sale of Fake IDs

Maximum of 15 years of imprisonment and fines for producing, transferring, or selling fake IDs.

Connection With Terrorism

Crimes involving acts of domestic or international terrorism can go up to 30 years in prison and fines.

Contact an Experienced Identity Theft Defense Attorney Today in Harris County, Texas

If you have been accused or are under investigation for identity theft, it is essential that you contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. During these crucial times, every second counts to build a strong defense for your case, ensure that your rights are protected, and work for a fair outcome.

The team of experts at John T. Floyd Law Firm provides skilled guidance and advice through complex legal matters. Contact us by calling 713-224-0101 or visit our office in Harris County, Texas, to work with a team of professionals ready to defend your rights and protect your freedom.

schedule a consultation

FAQ

What are the penalties for identity theft crimes?

K

L

Depending on the nature of the crime, severity, charges, and laws that apply, the penalties for identity theft can carry severe lifelong consequences that go beyond the courtroom.

Penalties at a Federal Level:

Possession of a False ID. Simple possession of a false identification document can go up to 1 year in prison and fines.
Production or Sale of Fake IDs. Maximum of 15 years of imprisonment and fines for producing, transferring, or selling fake IDs.
Connection With Other Crimes. Offenses connected to drug trafficking, violent or federal crimes can go up to 20 years of imprisonment and fines.
Connection With Terrorism. Crimes involving acts of domestic or international terrorism can go up to 30 years in prison and fines.

Possible consequences include fines from $1,000 up to $250,000, criminal record, mandatory reimbursements to victims, credit damage, deportation (if non-citizen), among others.

In the state of Texas, penalties include mandatory fines up to $10,000 and prison time that escalates according to the number of items involved.

Do identity thieves go to prison?

K

L

Yes, identity thieves go to prison frequently. Sentences vary depending on the specific case and aggravating factors, and generally include mandatory prison sentences, fines, and restitution to the victims.

How many years can you do for identity theft?

K

L

Depending on aggravating factors and the specific case, an individual who committed identity theft can spend time in prison ranging from 1 year up to 30 years.

Does the FBI investigate identity theft?

K

L

Yes, the FBI investigates identity theft. However, it’s usually for large-scale, organized, or cyber-enabled crimes where thieves used compromised personal identifiable information to commit fraud.

This content is only for informational purposes and does not constitute any level of legal advice. For specific legal questions, consult with our licensed attorneys.

Meet the Team Protecting Your Rights When Faced With Identity Theft Allegations

The John T. Floyd Law Firm is led by nationally renowned criminal defense attorney John T. Floyd, board-certified in criminal law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Together with Christopher M. Choate and Mia Floyd, the firm has earned a reputation for their successful and loyal representation of clients accused of identity theft.