Have You Been Accused of Identity Theft?

Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in the country. In 2009, there were more than 1 million victims of identity theft in the California alone, and others were falsely accused of the crime. If you, a friend or a loved one have been accused of taking someone's identity, call the experienced DUI and Criminal Defense Attorneys at Hoffman & Associates.

Identity theft occurs when someone uses the personal identifying information of another person, without the authorization of that person, for unlawful purposes. Given the increased use of technology in our daily lives, identity thieves have access to more personal information than ever before. When that information is used for monetary gain or counterfeit purposes, an identity theft crime has occurred.

Our skilled identity theft attorneys represent clients charged with identity theft offenses in a wide variety of contexts. We can help with charges of identity theft in connection with these and other circumstances:

  • Obtaining false or counterfeit government documents, including drivers licenses, social security cards, and birth certificates.
  • Acquiring someone’s personal information in order to obtain credit cards.
  • Using someone’s personal information to access medical information.
Potential Identity Theft Penalties and Consequences

Federal identity theft laws (Identity Theft Penalty Enhancement Act) were strengthened in 2008 and provide stiff penalties for conviction, including jail time. The new law allows federal courts to prosecute when the cybercriminal and the victim live in the same state. In cases where convicted identity thieves are ordered to pay restitution, the federal law now specifies the victim should get money "equal to the value of the time reasonably spent by the victim in an attempt to remediate the intended or actual harm incurred by the victim from the offense."

Legislative representatives in California are also working to increase penalties for individuals who commit crimes while using a stolen identity. Depending on the evidence and severity of the alleged offense, identity theft may currently be charged as a misdemeanor or felony in California.

Identity theft in connection with the commission of a felony carries the steepest penalties. Posing as another person for any fraudulent purpose may also lead to probation and substantial fines. Identity theft charges should not be ignored, but rather aggressively defended due to the severity of the penalties.

Hire An Experienced Identity Theft Attorney

Any identity theft charge should be taken very seriously. To protect your rights, you must consult with an experienced attorney who will fight for your freedom. The identity theft lawyers at Hoffman & Associates thoroughly understand identity theft charges and will work diligently to defend your good record.

Our attorneys regularly appear in courts throughout the Los Angeles and San Diego area, as well as courts in the San Fernando Valley including Van Nuys, San Fernando, Glendale, Burbank, and Pasadena. To schedule a consultation to discuss the specifics of your identity theft case, contact either of our offices that is most convenient for you:

Hoffman & Associates – Los Angeles
(323) 655-2900

Client Reviews
★★★★★
I can't begin to thank Mr. Hoffman enough for his extensive efforts throughout the entire case. He went absolutely above and beyond throughout the entire process. From day one he was immediately actively pursuing ways to prevent my case from ever going to court and once that was no longer an option, actively began working on getting the case ultimately dismissed. His communication was consistent and reassuring, despite my frantic worries all the time... Micaiah Botts
★★★★★
My family and I simply owe our life and future to Ron Hoffman. If you are looking for a lawyer that goes above and beyond the call of duty you can't find a better lawyer than Ron. He took my case head on from the moment I called his office. I was involved in an accidental hit and run where I was unaware of the injury. Every step of the way, Ron guided me through an almost two year long investigation and court settlement process and was constantly by my side through out every crossroad... Bill Martin
★★★★★
Ron Hoffman and his staff were Fantastic when dealing with such a serious issue of DUI. When I first Called Ron I was very nervous and worried for my daughter and her freedom. She had a failure to appear on top of her DUI and I knew just how bad this could be. Ron was able to immediately put me at ease and gave me the confidence that there was hope and a light at the end of the tunnel. Ron was able to get the failure to appear dismissed and also no jail time for my daughter... Claude Brown
★★★★★
I have been working with Mr. Hoffman for over 11 years. I have seen first hand his genuine dedication to his clients, and how his experience, knowledge and passion have gotten clients fantastic results. He treats each of his clients as his only client, and takes the time to develop detailed strategies and defenses for each individual case. I have never hesitated to refer Mr. Hoffman to anyone who has asked me for a good Criminal Defense attorney. He is a fantastic attorney!... Neeta P.
★★★★★
I had a DUI issue recently. I have never had a problem with the law as serious as this one. I did panic a bit after and knew I had to get a lawyer to help my future. I researched the Web and read the reviews for awesome DUI Lawyers. Hiring a lawyer can be intimidating. Ron's 30 years experience and step by step guidance helped me with my case. Jonie was amazing with keeping me calm. Ron Hoffman is a great lawyer and I would refer any friends or family to him... Manuel Gomez
★★★★★
Ron was so accommodating and professional. With a Firm like his you wouldn't expect him to be as accessible, but he immediately returned phone calls, was easy to communicate with and was very sympathetic to my situation. He went above and beyond and was able to get a better result than I'd hoped or expected. I highly recommend Ron Hoffman and his firm. He made a difficult and anxiety fueled process bearable and made me feel safe. He is a lovely man. One does not wish to need a criminal attorney, but if you do need one, Ron's the guy to call... Teri A.
★★★★★
Ron and his team were the perfect pairing for what I needed taken care of. Every step of the way he was extremely helpful and informative (not his first rodeo). His work ethic and attitude were exemplary and it showed with the results of using his services. I would recommend anyone I know to give Ron a call if they need help in his realm of expertise. Many thanks Ron and associates!... Donald N.
★★★★★
I didn't hire a lawyer for my first DUI... What a mistake! Ronald goes above and beyond with his art and knowledge of custom strategy according to your case. lawyer of the year (every year)... Adam R.
★★★★★
I hate lawyers. They are hard to get a hold of, greedy and unreliable. Ron is the opposite of all these things. He deserves 6 stars, and I very much recommend him. He helped me through my case with nothing but kindness, understanding, and knowledge and eventually got it dropped. Thanks for everything Ron!... Avi Z.