Identity theft allegations can result in felony charges, financial penalties, and reputational harm. At Martine Law, we challenge weak evidence, disputed records, and investigative errors while protecting your rights.
Identity Theft Defense Lawyers in North Carolina
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Understanding North Carolina Identity Theft Charges
These allegations generally involve claims of unauthorized use of personal or financial information for unlawful gain. Prosecutors commonly review banking records, digital activity, surveillance footage, and electronic evidence during these investigations.
| Charge | Statute | Common Allegations | Maximum Penalty | Classification |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Identity Theft | N.C.G.S. § 14-113.20 | Alleged use, possession, or obtaining of another person's identifying information without authorization for unlawful purposes | Up to felony penalties | Felony |
| Financial Card Fraud | N.C.G.S. § 14-113.13 | Unauthorized use, possession, or misuse of financial card information | Varies | Felony / Misdemeanor |
| Obtaining Property By False Pretenses | N.C.G.S. § 14-100 | Accusations involving deceptive financial transactions | Varies | Felony |
| Computer Fraud | N.C.G.S. § 14-454 | Alleged unlawful access to financial or personal records | Varies | Felony |
| Forgery / Uttering | N.C.G.S. § 14-119 | Claims involving falsified signatures or documents | Varies | Felony |
Factors That May Increase Criminal Exposure
- Allegations involving multiple victims
- Large financial losses or repeated transactions
- Claims involving organized activity
- Use of stolen banking or tax information
- Accusations connected to online accounts or digital devices
- Prior fraud-related convictions
- Allegations involving federal investigations, tax issues, or fraud
Consequences Beyond A Criminal Sentence
- Permanent criminal record
- Employment limitations
- Difficulty securing loans or housing
- Damage to professional reputation
- Immigration-related complications
- Restrictions involving financial licensing
- Increased penalties for future allegations
NOTE: Experienced identity theft attorneys in North Carolina can review whether investigators lawfully obtained digital evidence and whether prosecutors can actually prove fraudulent intent.
DEFENSE STRATEGIES
Fighting Identity Theft Charges
Every case deserves a careful review of the evidence, investigation methods, and possible violations of your rights. Our attorneys work to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and challenge unsupported allegations.
Challenging Electronic Evidence
Investigators usually examine emails, phone records, account activity, and online communications. We examine whether the digital evidence is accurate, misleading, or improperly obtained.
Examining Police Procedures
Law enforcement must follow proper legal procedures when collecting phones, computers, and financial records. We review whether your constitutional rights were violated during the investigation.
Challenging Claims of Intent
Mistaken identity, shared account access, or accidental involvement may weaken the prosecution’s attempt to prove intentional wrongdoing.
Reviewing Financial Documentation
Bank records, transaction histories, and account information may contain inconsistencies or incomplete details that affect the allegations.
Questioning Witness Reliability
Some cases depend heavily on statements from witnesses or alleged victims. We investigate credibility issues, conflicting statements, and possible motives.
Pursuing Reduced Penalties or Dismissal
When appropriate, we seek reduced charges, alternative resolutions, or case dismissals supported by weaknesses in the evidence.
WHY CHOOSE US
Why Clients Choose Our Defense Team
Courtroom Strength
Martine Law stands up to prosecutors and challenges allegations of serious financial crime in courts across North Carolina.
Proven Results
Our attorneys defend clients facing fraud investigations, theft accusations, and felony-level financial offense allegations.
Rapid Action
We act quickly to secure surveillance footage, digital records, banking information, and investigative materials before important evidence is lost or destroyed.
Always Available
Investigations and arrests can happen without warning. Our attorneys are ready to respond whenever you need immediate legal guidance.
Strategic Defense
Our legal team identifies weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence and challenges unsupported claims at every stage of the case.
Are You Accused? Speak with Attorneys for Identity Theft Now! →
COURT PROCESS
The Case Process Explained
From arrest through resolution, every stage of the case can affect the outcome and potential penalties.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
What is identity theft under North Carolina law?
Identity theft generally involves knowingly obtaining, possessing, or using another person’s identifying information without authorization for unlawful purposes. The specific allegations and evidence can affect how a case is charged.
Can I be charged even if I did not obtain money or property?
Yes. Prosecutors may pursue identity theft allegations based on the alleged unauthorized use or possession of identifying information, even if no financial gain was ultimately obtained.
What evidence is commonly used in investigations?
Investigators often rely on banking records, electronic communications, account activity, surveillance footage, digital devices, and witness statements when building a case.
Can mistaken identity be a defense?
Yes. Some cases involve shared devices, compromised accounts, inaccurate records, or other circumstances that may create uncertainty regarding who was responsible for the alleged conduct.
RELATED DEFENSE AREAS
Other Theft Crimes We Handle
Robbery
Charges involving alleged force, threats, or taking property from another person.
Shoplifting
Allegations involving retail theft or concealment of merchandise.
Simple Larceny
Charges involving the alleged unlawful taking of personal property.
Embezzlement
Claims involving alleged misuse or theft of entrusted funds or property.
Auto Theft
Charges involving unlawful taking or possession of a vehicle.
Burglary
Allegations involving unlawful entry into property with criminal intent.
Grand Larceny
Serious theft allegations involving higher-value property or assets.
DON’T WAIT – TIME MATTERS
Speak With A Defense Attorney Today
Prosecutors may already be collecting records, communications, witness statements, and digital evidence. Early legal representation can help protect your rights and support the development of an effective defense strategy.