Consequences of Getting Caught With a Fake ID in New Jersey
Possessing of displaying a fake ID can be costly. These are both serious crimes that can seriously impact all aspects of your life. If you or a loved one is facing charges of possession or displaying a fake ID, it is imperative that you immediately consult with a New Jersey defense attorney to help you devise the best strategy to avoid a conviction.
New Jersey Law Regarding “Fake IDs”
Under New Jersey law N.J.S.A 2C:21-2.1(c), a “fake ID” of any kind is known as using a “false document” or more commonly identity theft. The law makes it illegal to “exhibit, display, or utter” any document or writing that falsely represents your driver’s license, birth certificate, or any other official document that may be used to misrepresent your age or other personal information used to properly identify who you are.
Similarly, N.J.S.A 2C:21-2.1(d), it is also a crime to possess any document or writing that falsely represents any such official document that can be used to misrepresent personal information about you. In other words, it is a crime even if you simply have a fake ID on you.
The Consequences of Displaying a Fake ID
If you are caught displaying a fake ID for the purpose of misrepresenting your age or any other personal information, you will be charged with a third degree crime. The consequences of this level of criminal actions can get pretty ugly and costly.
If you are found guilty of displaying a fake ID, you may face the following consequences:
- Up to five (5) years in jail; AND
- Up to $15,000 in monetary fines
The Consequences of Possessing a Fake ID
If you are caught possessing a fake ID for the purpose of misrepresenting your age or any other personal information, you will be charged with a fourth-degree crime. If you are convicted on these charges, you may face the following consequences:
- Up to 18 months in jail; AND
- Up to $10,000 in monetary fines.
Juveniles With Fake IDs
The State of New Jersey punishes adults convicted of possessing or displaying fake IDs much more severely than juveniles. As such, the punishment for juveniles who are convicted of displaying or possessing fake IDs is less severe:
- A maximum of 6 months in jail;
- A fine of up to $1,000; AND
- A mandatory suspension of the juvenile’s driving privileges
Regardless of whether you are an adult or a juvenile, a conviction of possessing or displaying a fake ID is not good. As such, it is best to immediately consult with an experienced attorney.
Call a Fake ID Defense Attorney in New Jersey
If you or someone you know has been unfairly and falsely charged with possessing or displaying a fake ID in New Jersey, an experienced attorney can help. For more information or to schedule a free consultation with New Jersey fake ID defense attorney Dan T. Matrafajlo, please call the Beninato & Matrafajlo law firm at (908) 248-4404.