Identity Theft Crimes – lebedinkofman

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What Is Identity Theft or Identity Fraud?

Identity theft is the illegal use of someone else’s personal identifying information in order to obtain money or credit. Under 18 USC 1028A, aggravated identity theft mandates that, if convicted, a defendant must be sentenced to an additional two years in prison over and above any time served for other offenses. This offense carries a maximum term of 15 years imprisonment, a fine, and criminal forfeiture of any personal property used or intended to be used to commit identity theft.

Additionally, the Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act was enacted in 1998. This act prohibits “knowingly transferring or using without lawful authority, a means of identification of another person with the intent to commit or to aid or abet, any unlawful activity that constitutes a violation of federal law, or that constitutes a felony under applicable state or local law.”

If you are facing identity theft charges, our team of New York criminal defense lawyers at Lebedin Kofman LLP may be able to help. Speak with and identity theft lawyer in New York today.

You can reach us online or at (646) 663-4430 to schedule a free consultation regarding your identity theft case.

New York Theft Attorney Explains The Types Of Identity Theft

Identity theft may include criminal, medical, and financial identity theft. Identity theft involving criminal activity occurs when a criminal misrepresents himself or herself as another person during an arrest. A criminal may do this to avoid a summons, prevent the discovery of a warrant issued, or avoid arrest or conviction. Medical identity theft occurs when someone identifies himself or herself as another to obtain free medical care. Financial identity theft occurs when someone uses another person’s identity or information to obtain credit, goods, services, or benefits.

Identity theft can include the theft of names, Social Security numbers, credit card numbers, birth dates, or any other identifying characteristic. Identity thieves may obtain personal identifying information in several ways. Some of the identity theft crimes stem from criminals searching for discarded electronics, public record searches, stolen credit cards, credit card skimming, shoulder surfing, or computer hacking using computer viruses. Criminals may retrieve discarded pre-approved credit cards in the mail and try to activate them without the victim’s knowledge.

Recently, identity theft facilitated by the internet has increased. Identity thieves commonly use computer technology to obtain the personal information of victims. Many victims hastily respond to spam or unsolicited emails that promise benefits but request identifying data. Criminals may obtain a large amount of personal data from technological sources and use it for personal gain.

With enough identifying information, a criminal may be able to conduct a wide range of crimes, such as:

Applying for loans and credit cards;
Withdrawing money from bank accounts;
Using credit cards or obtaining other goods for which the criminal would be denied if he or she were to use his or her real name.

If you are facing Identity theft charges in New York, contact Lebedin Kofman LLP today at (646) 663-4430 or contact us online to speak with one of our identity theft lawyers in New York.

Different Degrees Of NYC Identity Theft

Third-Degree Identity Theft

In New York, Penal Law Section 190.78 states that a person commits third-degree identity theft when they knowingly and intentionally defraud another person, present themselves as someone else, act like that other person, or use identifying information of another person. An individual may also be charged with third-degree identity or information theft if they obtain goods, money, goods, and other services using someone else’s name and cause someone else financial loss.

A person who is convicted of Identity Theft in the third degree may be punished with jail time of up to 1 year. If not, they may be alternatively sentenced to probation for up to 2 or 3 years. Even if the defendant does not have a criminal record, alternative resolutions like an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal or a plea to a non-criminal offense are not commonly offered as in other misdemeanor cases to those convicted of identity theft. A skilled attorney may be able to help the defendant explore alternative sentencing options.

Second-Degree Identity Theft

According to the Penal Law Section 190.79, a person is charged with second-degree identity theft if they also defraud another person, present themselves as that other person and obtain goods or services using that other person’s information. A person may also be charged with second-degree identity theft if they use credit in someone else’s name in excess of $500, and cause someone financial loss in excess of $500.

Additionally, the defendant may also be charged with second-degree identity theft or information theft if they commit the crime of identity theft in the Third Degree, but has a conviction within the preceding 5 years for any degree of identity theft; Grand Larceny; Unlawful Possession of Personal Identification; or Unlawful Possession of a Skimmer Device.

Second-degree identity theft crimes may be sentenced to 1 to 4 years in prison for a first-time offender, but there may be alternative punishments available. This is where an attorney may be able to give important legal advice and help the defendant seek other possible sentencing options.

First-Degree Identity Theft

Lastly, a person may be charged with first-degree identity theft, according to the Penal Law Section 190.80, if they assume the identity of another person and cause someone else financial loss of $2000. If they also use credit in the name of another person in excess of $2000 or obtain money and goods valued at more than $2000, they may be charged with first-degree identity theft.

Furthermore, if someone commits the crime of identity theft in the Second Degree, but has a conviction within the preceding 5 years for any degree of identity theft, Grand Larceny, Unlawful Possession of Personal Identification; or Unlawful Possession of a Skimmer Device. A conviction of first-degree identity theft may be sentenced to up to 7 years in prison, but there may also be alternative sentences such as probation, a split sentence of up to 6 months in jail, or a straight conditional discharge.

Being charged with identity or information theft can be serious. It is highly advised to seek the help of an experienced New York City attorney who may be able to give the defendant legal advice and help them understand their rights as well as protect their freedom. If you are facing identity theft charges in New York, don’t wait to take action. Contact the experienced identity theft lawyers at Lebedin Kofman LLP today to protect your rights and future. We can provide you with the guidance and representation you need to defend yourself against these serious charges.

Unlawful Possession Of Personal Identification

Third-Degree Unlawful Possession Of Personal Identification

To be convicted of Third Degree Unlawful Possession of Personal Identification Information under NY PL 190.81, you must possess specific personal information listed in the statute with the knowledge that it will be used for a crime. The form in which you possess this information, whether in written form or encrypted on an android phone, does not matter. The quantity of personal identification information, such as having one voice print or 249 retinal images, does not affect the severity of the offense unless it exceeds 250 or more, which could lead to increased criminal charges.

Second-Degree Unlawful Possession Of Personal Identification

Under NY Penal Law 190.82, a Second Degree Unlawful Possession of Personal Identification Information offense can be considered a felony if a person possesses 250 or more pieces of personal information, such as names, addresses, social security numbers, or credit card details, without legal authority. This elevates the offense from a misdemeanor to a much more severe crime, punishable by imprisonment and hefty fines.

First-Degree Unlawful Possession Of Personal Identification

First Degree Unlawful Possession of Personal Identification Information is a serious crime defined in NY Penal Law 190.83, and its severity varies depending on the circumstances. To be charged under any subsection of this law, a person must first violate Second Degree Unlawful Possession of Personal Identification Information, as specified in NY Penal Law 190.82.

If a person intends to commit a Second Degree of Identity Theft and supervises at least three accomplices, prosecutors can seek an indictment for a First Degree of Unlawful Possession of Personal Identification Information under NY Penal Law 190.83(1).

If a person has been convicted of certain crimes, such as Grand Larceny and other offenses under NY Penal Law Article 190.80, within the previous five years of violating Second Degree Unlawful Possession of Personal Identification Information, the District Attorney can upgrade their offense to NY Penal Law 190.83(2).

Lastly, NY Penal Law 190.83(3) applies when a person possesses 250 pieces of personal identification information and supervises at least two accomplices, knowing that the information belongs to a member of the armed forces outside the “lower 48.” This offense is classified as a felony.

If you need legal assistance for identity theft charges in New York, contact Lebedin Kofman LLP today. Our experienced identity theft laywers can provide you with the guidance and representation you need.

Getting The Assistance of A Skilled Identity Theft Attorney At Lebedin Kofman LLP

Identity Theft crimes may range from low-level misdemeanors to serious felonies. Usually, the severity of the charge will depend on the value of the information used or the goods obtained with the stolen information. Being convicted of Identity Theft may have a significant impact on the individual’s life and may also leave a mark on the person’s records.

At Lebedin-Kofman, LLP, we understand the importance of having a skilled lawyer when facing charges of Identity Theft. Seeking the help of an experienced NYC identity theft attorney may be able to help the defendant protect their freedom or explore an alternative sentence that may be more favorable for the defendant. You don’t have to be alone in this.

If you or someone you love is facing charges of identity theft or stealing someone’s personal information, it is highly advised to seek the help of a skilled identity fraud Lawyer.

Testimonials

Client Reviews

I hired Russ to represent me in a domestic violence/criminal case in Manhattan. From the beginning to end of the case, he was professional, supportive and dependable. He alleviated all of my concerns with the possible outcome of my case by assuring me the case would be dismissed. He was absolutely right and successfully got my case dismissed. He was always there, any time of the day or night to answer any questions or concerns. I highly recommend obtaining him as your attorney, he is the best you can find to have in your corner!!

I had the pleasure of using Lebedin Kofman LLP, i was greatly satisfied, my son had a very difficult case, assault on NYC police officer, and he got the case completely dismissed. They also work with you on payment plans, all in all i was very pleased, and would definitely use them again. But really hoping I won't need to! lol

I am writing this review to state Big Russ got me back Big Buck for my case.I thank God for Mr. Russ Kofman,and his fine team of lawyers and paralegals. That have the resources and knowledge to make the City and NYC Police Department Paid for what they did to me falsely arrested and falsely incarcerated me. Iam so Graceful ,Thankful and Well Please about the result of my case Mr.Kofman and that fine team of yours .All my plain and all my Suffering did not go away but it sure will help me along the way with that financial blessing.Its just fantastic and so amazing how much I got back. You guys guided me every step of the way.I appreciate all the time and all the effort it took for my result.You guys are heaven send. Thank You Mr.Russ Kofman an Team HALLELUJAH THANK YOU JESUS!!! God bless You Michael

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! Saw this law firm online, based on good reviews, I contacted their office and Attorney Arthur Lebedin called me back outright and had given me consultations for free. I went to his office and Atty. Arthur was so gracious listening to my woes with regards to my credit card debts. He’s very knowledgeable of what he does and very professional too. Atty Arthur and everyone down the line - worked hand in hand to make things right for me sooner than I thought. I paid just 1/3 of my outstanding obligations and saved over $9,200+ from the original amount I’m supposed to pay. What an excellent settlement! So grateful to be represented by these amazing lawyers most especially to Attorney Arthur Lebedin, Attorney Stephannie Miranda and the rest of their team. Needless to say, their professional fees are way too reasonable and fair with an option to pay it on an installment basis. My case was settled/resolved in no less time. Exceeded my expectations. What a relief on my part for these settlement that they negotiated on my behalf. Thank you very much.

Highly recommended!

I have been working with different law firms throughout my career. I have had a variety of experiences some good some bad. With that said, my experience with Lebedin Kofman LLP was stellar. They more than delivered. My experience could not have been better. Arthur and his team really had my back. I did alot of research upfront before selecting them and it really paid off. I cannot thank them enough.

We needed legal representation in NYC after our son got into some trouble at a nightclub with an overly aggressive bouncer. Living on the west coast, we were worried about getting the best representation for his case, being so far away. We took the leap and called up Russ Kofman based on the high reviews we saw on Yelp. He was very knowledgeable about the type of case and what could be hoped for in terms of trying to get the charges reduced from misdemeanor to violation. Although the hearing date was over 2 months out, we did not hear from the DA until almost the day before the hearing which was frustrating but out of our control. We then were assigned to work with Sahar Shams, an Associate at the firm that did a great job with last minutes planning and communication with us. Sahar had worked in the DA's office and so had a great insider's view of how they work. She was able to negotiate with the DA office to get the charges reduced even further than he hoped down to an ACD with additional favorable conditions which was a great relief for our son and us. Thanks to Sahar and Russ for the great service. We highly recommend them and the firm!

I have been blown away with the level of dedication, customer service and patience provided by this firm. My husband had acquired a large amount of debt from school (an education he was unable to finish due to extenuating circumstances) and that debt was always hovering over him. The debt collectors were offering ridiculous payment plans ($600 - $1200 a month when my husband only made $1000 a month). Finding any resolution seemed hopeless, and then the loan went into default. We knew we needed to seek help. My husband and I had a preliminary meeting with Arthur Lebedin to go over the details of the issues. He was very understanding, patient and explained everything to us in terms we could understand. He assured us that his firm has a good relationship with many debt collectors and they'd been successful in reaching agreements/payment plans that work for both parties. We had a lot of back and forth, but that's a good thing in this case. They always kept us updated with what was going on. We were dealing directly with Esta Kravets, a paralegal who went above and beyond the negotiate our debt agreement. She worked with us over several months and assured us she would get us a deal that we could be comfortable with. Anytime I was worried about the amount of time that had gone by, I was reassured that they were handling everything. And they did! My husband ended up paying 1/3rd of his original debt. That's amazing! Resolving our debt paired with the overall professionalism and service they provided us during the entire process is what makes me give 5 stars.

Russ handled my domestic violence case which flowed into a very messy divorce. He guided me throw this very scary process and resolved the criminal case very quickly, then turned the tables on my husband and absolutely wiped the floor with his divorce lawyer. I was very happy standing next to him in court and I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a powerhouse lawyer. His fees were also very reasonable and the fact that you get a great team of lawyers working for you helps very much.

Going in for my DMV chemical refusal case, I was very anxious having my license being revoked for a up to a year. The odds were stacked against me, having little hope of any positive certainty. Russ Kofman explained in great detail of what I was facing and the fines that would accompany me in the near future. He showed me his plan and the research he had done. During the safety hearing I was able to witness the powerhouse that Russ Kofman is. He was able to dismiss my case and save tons of money on future fines. Leaving the court room I thought I was dreaming! Thank you Russ Kofman!

I have used them for my civil cases and my criminal cases they are very hard working and professional. They will stop at nothing to see that you get the justice you deserve and i highly recommend them to anyone who is in need of a great law firm. Lastly i would like to thank them for sticking by me and proving my innocence.

Amazing! I highly recommend Russ Kofman! My case was a difficult one and now I'm here without any criminal record thanks to Russ. He is highly skilled in DUI law and criminal defense law. I would recommend him to anyone. I'm so grateful that I chose him as my lawyer !! Very professional, if you're in need of a lawyer that truly is going to get you the best offer possible regarding a DUI, then I suggest Russ Kofman.

Arthur was extremely kind and helpful when I first called him to get some advice on how to settle some credit card debt and student loan issues.

He was patient, understanding and clear and set my mind at ease about the entire situation. His team has been excellent in helping settle debts for substantially less than owed and have been an invaluable resource when it comes to helping get my financial house in order.

I would not hesitate to hire Arthur again and will do so if the need arises in the future.

I had a very tough felony cocaine possession and sale case in Queens. I was falsely accused and only Mr. Kofman believed in me. He worked non stop to get my case solved. The investigator he sent out found the evidence that later acquitted me. My family is forever grateful to this firm and I would tell you to call them if your family or friend is ever in trouble. They pick up the phone at any time even when my girlfriend called them at 2 or 3 am in an emergency. Kofman knows drug cases in and out and saved my family a ton of money on bail because he got me ror when the prosecutor was asking for a hundred thousand dollars bail bc of my history.

I was in a case of self-defense and Russ Kaufmann help me get my freedom back. They were trying to give me 2 - 7 years for something I didn't do and Russ Kaufman believed in me and made sure that everything was going to be taken care of. After a few months of the court system delays the case was thrown out and i was a free man. thank you for everything. The professionalism the respect in the quality of care is superb. Hands down the best lawyer I have ever encountered. A+ QUALITY FIRM. A definite recommendation to anyone.

Lebedin Kofman has been great to me. They were very understanding regarding my lawsuit and did everything in their power to help me. Kelsey Was amazing, answered back in a timely manner whenever I had Questions and never made me feel uncomfortable or like It wasn’t worth it. They worked hard and ended up getting me a nice sized lawsuit. I appreciate them for all of their work and would recommend to anyone looking for a lawyer who actually cares about you and your case.

Lebedin Kofman LLP is INCREDIBLE!!!!! Arthur and his team demonstrate exceptional professionalism and legal expertise. I was so scared when I received a letter from the court but, Arthur and his team took the time to carefully explain my options and they worked with me to find a solution. Not only did they solve the problem, they got the case thrown out. I can't praise their work enough. I've never written a review in my life , but, I had to for Lebedin Kofman LLP.

I was charged with grand larceny. Russ Kofman and his team had all criminal charges against me dropped, I was found guilty of a minor violation. At all times Russ and his associates were available for me and were extremely helpful and professional. I hope that I never have a need for a lawyer again, however Russ Kofman would be my only choice should the need arise.

I had criminal charges against me and needed to hire a lawyer fast. I decided to call Russ Kofman and told him about my case. The cops locked me up and Russ and his team made sure that I was going to get out. Russ told me to keep calm and let him handle everything. Words can’t explain how Russ got me out less then 34 hours and to top it off he made the DA dropped the charges and had the case dismissed.After I got out Lebedin Kofman and I decided to file a lawsuit against the city, and they got me a great settlement.

Do not hesitate to call this firm because they will be right by your side every step of the way. They surely live up to their great reviews.

I contacted this firm after spending nearly a year worrying about the consequences of answering a bench warrant. After submitting my information online I was called later that day and spoke to the attorney. His professionalism and knowledge were immediately comforting and I knew I had made the right move. I appeared in court with an attorney from the firm who guided me every step of the way. I only wish I would I have contacted Lebedin Kofman earlier instead of letting fear of the justice system get the best of me. Thank you Lebedin Kofman for helping me get back on the right track, I would highly recommend this firm.

I had a very dicey refusal that could have gone very badly. Russ was able to get me the best deal possible. He represented me at the DMV refusal hearing, and got it dropped entirely. No fees, loss of license or points! Additionally, in the criminal charges, he worked diligently for months and got that dropped to a violation. When I contacted Russ, I was looking at a very long term loss of my license and a permanent criminal record. But his knowledge of the law and hard work got me the best results imaginable. I would highly recommend him!

I had such a great experience with Arthur. I was impressed with how quickly he worked on my case and delivered a result that was beyond what I had expected. He responded to all my questions quickly and allayed my worries. I was lucky to have found him and I would definitely consult him again if any future issues arise.

These guys are great! I am a student in college that made the mistake of drinking and driving. Needless to say, that will never happen again but the entire experience was traumatic. These guys were able to dismiss my criminal charges and find the best possible outcome for my situation. I highly recommend them for their dedication, expertise and professionalism!

After previously hiring 2 law firms, I had almost lost hope of reaching an affordable settlement for a judgment when I came across the website of Mr. Lebedin. In my first conversation with him, Mr. Lebedin listened attentively and then gave a clear assessment of the case, where he explained several options. Because of his honesty, I hired his firm right away. His legal team updated me on their progress via email during several months of tough negotiations. Mr. Lebedin and his team identified stumbling blocks in the negotiations, which they resolved to get an acceptable settlement agreement. After the creditor received payment, Mr. Lebedin and his team followed through to make sure that the creditor and their counsel honored their part of the agreement. I cannot thank Mr. Lebedin and his staff enough for their commitment and persistence in resolving this case. The associate attorney on the case, Ms. Miranda, was outstanding. I highly recommend Mr. Lebedin and the law firm of Lebedin Kofman LLP.

I was charged with a DWI last year. I definitely did not know what to do. Until I did my research and found out about this law firm. Amazing lawyers who worked hard on my case and got it dismissed!! I would recommend Lebedin Kofman to anyone looking for a DWI lawyer in NYC!

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