South Carolina Credit Card Fraud Lawyer

Any kind of unauthorized credit card use can be prosecuted by the justice department or other government entities. Many of these cases are determined under state law, but federal statutes also exist to protect against this kind of conduct. When you face credit card fraud charges, your rights are at risk. You need a strong legal defense to back you up, as a properly formed strategy could protect you from a conviction.

A South Carolina credit card fraud lawyer is ready to evaluate your case, and could help determine what defensive strategies best fit the situation. Call today to discuss your unique case with a dedicated fraud attorney.

Federal Credit Card Fraud

18 U.S. Code § 1029 makes credit card fraud a federal crime. The unauthorized use of credit cards, gift cards, debit cards, and other similar items is commonly referred to as access device fraud.

Illegal conduct surrounding these items includes, but is not limited to:

• Using or trafficking counterfeit credit cards and other devices
• Possession of fifteen or more counterfeit access devices
• Using, trafficking, or possessing a scanning receiver
• Using, trafficking, or possessing software or hardware to modify telecommunications services
• Possession or trafficking of device-making equipment
• Soliciting another to violate the statute

Additionally, individuals might be charged with aggravated identity theft in connection to credit card fraud if they utilize the identity of another person or business. This may deepen the severity of an already severe criminal allegation. Obtaining the help of a credit card fraud attorney could help someone navigate the difficulties of facing multiple charges in South Carolina.

Examples of Credit Card Fraud

A person could be charged with a credit card fraud offense if they:

• Steal and use a person’s credit card
• Exceed the permission to use a credit card
• Install skimmers on ATMs or gas pumps
• Submit fake credit card applications
• Create fraudulent credit cards
• Steal mail to obtain cardholder data

These are just a few examples of actions that could lead to a criminal charge, illustrating how broad this statute is, and how it might be applied to a defendant’s case. Allegations of credit card fraud must be vehemently defended to prevent wrongful convictions. Individuals charged with credit card fraud in South Carolina should reach out to an experienced defense attorney to discover their legal options.

Defending Credit Card Fraud Charges

Experienced criminal defense lawyers are prepared to use a wide range of strategies to obtain the most favorable outcome possible in a defendant’s case. A reduction in the level of crime, lesser penalties, or even a full acquittal may result from a properly defended case. Defenses could include:

• No intent to defraud
• Fraud did not constitute identity theft
• No effect on interstate or foreign commerce
• Reasonable belief that the defendant had permission to use the credit card
• Present reasonable doubt to the jury

To find out which defenses might be available in a particular case, contact a South Carolina credit card fraud attorney as soon as possible.

Find a Credit Card Fraud Attorney in South Carolina

A prosecutor bringing charges against you does not have to be the end of your legal journey. You are innocent until proven guilty. Many defense strategies exist that may apply to your unique situation, and the assistance of a qualified defense team could help you put your best foot forward in protecting your rights.

Your best defense could depend on contacting a South Carolina credit card fraud lawyer to represent you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.