Credit Card Fraud in San Antonio
Team up with a San Antonio White Collar Crime Attorney
Credit card fraud is not taken lightly in the state of Texas. The penalties for any type of fraudulent crime are strict. The charges that you may be facing will vary depending on how you obtained or used the credit card and the value that you obtained. Credit card fraud involves a person committing theft and using a credit card in the process. This offense is generally charged at a state level, but there are times that it can be charged in a federal court. If you are facing credit card fraud charges you may be facing a prison sentence, large fines, and restitution. Seek representation from a San Antonio criminal defense lawyer to help fight against your fraud charges.
What acts constitute a credit card fraud charge?
Many people just picture someone stealing a credit card and using it to buy expensive things when they think of credit card fraud. This offense can be performed in many other forms as well. According to the Texas Penal Code Section 32.31, some of the acts that may result in a charge for credit card fraud include:
- Using a credit card that you know is expired or has been canceled
- Using a credit card that does not belong to you without the permission of the card owner
- Possessing a card that belongs to someone else with the intent of using it
- Buying, selling or accepting cards that you are aware have been stolen
- Convincing another person to buy merchandise with a card while knowing that they do not have the money to pay for it
- Using a fictitious card or number of a fake card
There are several other acts that constitute credit card fraud so if you have further questions or would like to discuss your case, contact The Law Office of John J. Fox today.
Penalties for Credit Card Fraud in San Antonio, TX
The penalties for this type of fraud are severe. The offense is generally charged as a state jail felony. In Texas, this type of felony is punishable by a jail sentence of at least 180 days with a maximum of two years. You could also be facing a fine of up to $10,000. There are exceptions that may lead to harsher penalties. If you committed the offense to an elderly person you may be facing a third degree felony charge. This type of felony is punishable by between two and ten years in state prison along with a fine of up to $10,000.
Defenses to Credit Card Fraud in Texas
There are several defenses that a skilled credit card fraud lawyer can make on your behalf. Our firm takes the time to investigate all aspects of the case in order to develop all possible strategies of defense. Oftentimes, we are able to have charges reduced or even dismissed. Some of the defenses that we may be able to make in your case include:
- You lacked knowledge that you were committing the crime
- You did not have the intent of committing the crime
- The crime was a mistake
- You were coerced to perform the crime and you otherwise would not have
- You are a minor (carries a lighter penalty)
Need a lawyer for a credit card fraud case in San Antonio?
If you are facing any type of fraud charge in Texas, contact a San Antonio white collar crime lawyer from our firm today! We offer a free initial consultation so do not hesitate to call today and see how we may be able to defend against your charges.