Columbia Credit Card Fraud Lawyer

Credit card fraud is common throughout the state and can occur in many different ways. From fraudulent charges on stolen cards to complex forgery schemes, the state aggressively prosecutes these offenses. It is always worthwhile to speak with a skilled fraud attorney following an arrest for this white-collar crime.

If you are facing these charges, a Columbia credit card fraud lawyer might be able to help. Developing a defense strategy on your own can be challenging, but the right legal counsel could give you the best chance at securing a favorable outcome.

Understanding Credit Card Fraud

In order for the state to establish guilt in a credit card fraud case, it must be able to prove several specific elements beyond a reasonable doubt. As the name of the offense suggests, there must be some kind of credit card transaction involved in the scheme in order for this type of charge to be issued.

There are different ways that this type of fraud can occur under the law. Some common examples include the following:

• Transactions using a stolen card
• Using a revoked, expired, or altered account number
• Unauthorized use of a credit cart
• Use of a forged credit card
• Possession of forgery devices

These transactions on their own are not enough for a criminal conviction, as there needs to be intent behind them. An attorney serving Columbia could develop a winning defense in a credit card fraud case.

Potential Defense Strategies

There is never a guarantee that an arrest on fraud charges will result in a conviction. The accused has the right to mount a defense with the help of a Columbia credit card fraud attorney.

Lack of Evidence

One of the most basic and most effective defenses in criminal court involves highlighting the lack of evidence raised by the state. The prosecution has the burden of proving a person’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, and may be unable to provide sufficient evidence that a fraudulent transaction took place.

Authorization

In credit card fraud cases, one common defense strategy is the authorization defense. This approach argues that the person charged with fraud had explicit permission to engage in the transaction in question. Often, this strategy points to an honest misunderstanding as opposed to a criminal act.

Lack of Intent

It is critical to remember that fraud is a crime of intent. That means it is impossible for anyone to commit this offense accidentally. A person could, however, make a transaction that is unauthorized or inappropriate due to carelessness or mistake. While this outcome is problematic, it does not meet the definition of fraud.

Violation of Constitutional Rights

Often, these cases involve the use of financial records. However, the accused has certain rights under the law regarding their privacy, including the right to life free from illegal searches or seizures by the government. When evidence is seized illegally, an attorney could file a motion to exclude it from trial.

Talk to a Credit Card Fraud Attorney in Columbia Today

If you have been arrested due to a supposedly unlawful charge on a credit card, it is important that you understand your legal rights and options. You are entitled to present your defense with the help of a skilled legal professional. Reach out to a Columbia credit card fraud lawyer today to discuss your case during a private consultation.