Identity Theft Violations

The digital revolution of the past generation has made it much easier to conduct business electronically, but it has also enhanced the ability of criminals to misuse personally identifying information. Identity theft can occur when a person uses the identity of another to unlawfully apply for credit, purchase goods and services, or obtain protected medical data.

Lara Yeretsian, the founding lawyer at , has years of experience defending clients accused of identity theft and other white collar legal violations. She will examine the case that the state or federal agency has against you, devise effective legal strategies to minimize damage to you and continue to fight for your rights to the very end.

What Constitutes ‘Personally Identifying Information’?

Legally, California takes a broad view of what personally identifying information is protected by its statutes. Some of the key pieces of information covered by the laws include:

  • Name
  • Social Security number or taxpayer ID number
  • Driver’s license number
  • Passport ID number
  • Address
  • Phone number

Additionally, state law also protects the following types of identifying information:

  • Bank account and PIN numbers
  • Credit card numbers
  • Biometric data such as fingerprints, voiceprints and retinal/iris scans

What Are My Defenses If I’m Accused Of Identity Theft?

You were authorized to have an/or use the personally identifying individual. The key to a defense strategy for an identity theft charge is to disprove that you had unlawful intent. This can be demonstrated in several ways:

  • Your own identity was misappropriated to carry out the identity theft
  • You were using the personal identifying information without a fraudulent or unlawful purpose
  • You operate or own an internet service provider service or a software company and did not sell or transfer the information with the intent to commit fraud

Often, if you are under investigation for identity theft, you may become aware of the investigation prior to an arrest and be asked to be interviewed or questioned. Never agree to speak to an investigator without your attorney present. You are entitled to remain silent, because of the Miranda decision, when your attorney is not present to advise you.

Assert Your Due Process Rights Today

Our firm’s attorney takes your case seriously and will fight hard to obtain a positive result for you. Call our Glendale office at 818-741-1220 or email us to set up a free initial appointment. We serve clients in greater Los Angeles. Our practice speaks Spanish, Arabic and Armenian.