Is it a Big Deal to Get Caught with Fake Identification?
There are different reasons people use fake identification. Some do it to avoid arrest for outstanding warrants. Others may not be in the country legally. Some individuals may even hope to assume another’s identity as part of a national security threat. Or, to get credit.
And, then there are those who need fake IDs to get into bars or purchase alcohol.
Such was the case of Maria Punda, who was just a few months shy of her 21st birthday. Someone loaned her a license so she could get into a club to celebrate a friend’s birthday. Maria downed one shot with her friends at midnight.
Maria left the party an hour later. When she was pulled over for speeding, Maria knew she wasn’t drunk. But since she thought she might smell of alcohol, Maria handed over the fake credentials to the police.
Maria was in trouble. The policeman recognized the license as a fraud. Maria was still considered underage. She had a great deal of explaining to do. And, was faced with some tickets and rather costly consequences.
The Law and Using Fake IDs
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that the war on terrorism has really increased the crackdown on fake IDs. Let’s look at some of the charges.
What counts as fake identification under the law? Anything that comes from a government entity. This would include a fraudulent driver’s license or birth certificate. Of course, since the government issues passports, it would also include phony passports.
Possessing the documents is just one part of the crime. One could also be faced with identity theft charges. The big consideration is that using the fake documents constitutes fraud.
Whatever the reason someone uses fake ID, it is risky to go into court alone. The penalties can be very severe. In fact, they can cause someone to wind up in jail. In addition, they can be charged thousands in fines. It is important to retain experienced legal counsel.
Contact Us
At the Law Offices of Beninato & Matrafaljo, we realize that people make mistakes. As experienced attorneys, we take pride in representing our clients. It can be a very big deal to be caught with fake identification. Contact us to learn how we can advocate on your behalf.