Credit fraud, particularly credit card fraud, is a serious crime in Texas. If you’re facing credit fraud charges, whether it’s related to credit card fraud or state felony charges, it’s essential to understand the legal implications and the steps you can take to protect yourself. Criminal Defense Lawyer Mike Kohler Esq. has extensive experience defending clients accused of financial crimes, including credit fraud, and can provide the legal expertise you need. This article will discuss credit fraud charges in Texas, including credit card fraud and felony charges, and how Mike Kohler can assist in your defense.
What Is Credit Fraud?
Credit fraud refers to the illegal use of someone else’s credit or debit card information to make unauthorized purchases or access credit without permission. In Texas, credit fraud is a criminal offense that can carry severe consequences, especially if it involves a significant amount of money or other aggravating factors.
There are two primary types of credit fraud charges that individuals may face in Texas:
- Credit Card Fraud
- State Felony Credit Card Fraud
Both types of fraud carry serious penalties, but the degree of the charge and the severity of the consequences depend on various factors. Let’s dive into each type of credit fraud in more detail.
Credit Card Fraud in Texas
Credit card fraud is one of the most common forms of financial crime. In Texas, individuals can face credit card fraud charges if they are accused of using a credit card or other financial instrument (such as a debit card or check) without authorization.
Common Forms of Credit Card Fraud
Credit card fraud can occur in a variety of ways, including:
- Stolen Card Information: Using a credit card without the owner’s consent, such as when a person steals another’s card or obtains the card details through fraudulent means.
- Fake Card Creation: Creating a counterfeit card using stolen account information to make fraudulent transactions.
- Account Takeover: Using stolen information to gain control of someone’s credit card account and make purchases.
- Identity Theft: Stealing someone’s personal information to open new credit accounts in their name and use them for fraudulent purposes.
Texas law is clear in its stance against credit card fraud. The Texas Penal Code states that credit card fraud can lead to charges ranging from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the value of the stolen credit or the number of fraudulent transactions.
Penalties for Credit Card Fraud
The penalties for credit card fraud in Texas vary based on the severity of the crime:
- Class A Misdemeanor: If the amount stolen is under $2,500, the individual may face a Class A misdemeanor charge. This could result in up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000.
- State Jail Felony: If the value exceeds $2,500 but is under $30,000, the crime can result in a state jail felony charge, which could lead to 180 days to two years in a state jail facility.
- Third-Degree Felony: If the amount stolen is over $30,000 but less than $150,000, the charge could escalate to a third-degree felony, with penalties of 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Second-Degree Felony: If the amount stolen is over $150,000, the charge may be upgraded to a second-degree felony, which carries 2 to 20 years in prison and substantial fines.
Given the complexity of Texas law and the severity of the penalties, it’s crucial to have a skilled criminal defense attorney on your side.
State Felony Credit Card Fraud in Texas
State felony credit card fraud is a more severe form of fraud, typically involving higher amounts of money or multiple fraudulent transactions. These charges are more likely to result in significant prison time, especially if the individual has a history of similar offenses.
What Constitutes a State Felony Credit Card Fraud Charge?
A person may face felony credit card fraud charges if they:
- Use Stolen Credit Cards: Using or possessing stolen credit cards with the intent to defraud another person or entity.
- Engage in Identity Theft: If someone uses stolen personal information to create fake credit cards or open new lines of credit, they may face felony charges.
- Scheme to Defraud: Engaging in a series of fraudulent activities, such as creating multiple fake cards or accounts, can lead to more severe felony charges.
State felony credit card fraud is treated seriously by Texas authorities. Prosecutors will aggressively pursue these charges, especially when large sums of money are involved. Therefore, it is crucial to seek experienced legal representation if you are facing such charges.
Penalties for Felony Credit Card Fraud
The penalties for state felony credit card fraud in Texas depend on the amount of money involved:
- Third-Degree Felony: For fraud involving $30,000 to $150,000, the individual can face 2 to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
- Second-Degree Felony: If the fraud involves amounts over $150,000, the charge could escalate to a second-degree felony, carrying 2 to 20 years in prison and significant fines.
Felony charges can result in a long-lasting criminal record, which may impact future employment and personal relationships. This is why it is critical to have an experienced criminal defense attorney, like Mike Kohler, to fight for your rights.
How Can Criminal Defense Lawyer Mike Kohler Help?
Criminal Defense Lawyer Mike Kohler Esq. is highly experienced in handling credit fraud charges in Texas, including both credit card fraud and state felony credit card fraud cases. When facing these charges, you need a strong legal defense to ensure the best possible outcome. Here’s how Mike Kohler can assist:
1. Expert Legal Advice
Navigating the criminal justice system can be overwhelming, especially when facing felony charges. Mike Kohler offers expert legal advice to help you understand your rights, the charges against you, and the potential consequences. He will explain the legal process and help you make informed decisions about your case.
2. Aggressive Defense Strategy
Mike Kohler is known for his aggressive defense strategy in criminal cases. He works diligently to examine the evidence, identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and develop a strong defense strategy. His goal is to minimize the impact of the charges and fight for the best possible outcome, whether through a plea agreement, case dismissal, or trial.
3. Expert Knowledge of Texas Law
Texas law surrounding credit fraud and credit card fraud is complex. Mike Kohler has in-depth knowledge of state and federal fraud laws and uses this knowledge to build effective defense strategies. He understands the intricacies of the Texas Penal Code and how it applies to fraud charges, including the differences between misdemeanor and felony charges.
4. Representation at Every Stage of the Case
From the initial investigation to trial, Mike Kohler provides representation at every stage of the case. He will ensure that your constitutional rights are protected and advocate on your behalf during negotiations, hearings, and court proceedings. If the case goes to trial, he will fight aggressively to achieve the best possible outcome.
5. Building a Defense Strategy
In cases involving credit fraud, defenses may include lack of intent, mistaken identity, or insufficient evidence. Mike Kohler will thoroughly review the evidence against you, identify potential defense strategies, and work to cast doubt on the prosecution’s claims. By challenging the evidence and the prosecution’s case, he increases the chances of a favorable verdict.
For more information on how Mike Kohler can assist with your defense, visit his criminal defense practice page.
Why Choose Mike Kohler for Your Defense?
When facing credit fraud charges, it’s crucial to choose an experienced and skilled criminal defense attorney who will provide personalized attention to your case. Mike Kohler’s commitment to protecting his clients’ rights and his track record of success in criminal defense make him a top choice for those facing serious charges like credit fraud.
Key Reasons to Choose Mike Kohler:
- Years of Experience: Mike Kohler has extensive experience in criminal defense and has handled a wide range of fraud cases, including credit card fraud and state felony charges.
- Personalized Approach: He takes the time to understand the unique circumstances of your case and tailors his defense strategy accordingly.
- Proven Success: Mike Kohler has a history of successfully defending clients against serious criminal charges, including fraud and theft offenses.
- Strong Reputation: He is highly respected in the legal community and has earned a reputation for providing high-quality legal representation.
For more information on how Mike Kohler can develop an effective defense strategy for your case, visit his criminal defense strategy page.
Conclusion
Facing credit fraud charges, including credit card fraud and state felony charges, in Texas is a serious matter that can have long-lasting consequences. However, with the right legal representation, you can protect your rights and work toward the best possible outcome. Criminal Defense Lawyer Mike Kohler Esq. has the experience, knowledge, and dedication needed to provide a strong defense in credit fraud cases. If you’re facing charges, don’t hesitate to reach out to Mike Kohler for the legal help you need.
By working with a skilled defense attorney, you can navigate the complexities of Texas credit fraud laws and seek the best possible defense strategy for your case.
