Identity Theft

Spokane, Washington, Identity Theft Defense Lawyer

One of the most common white-collar crimes in crime in Washington and Oregon is identity theft. The majority of people charged are dealing with drug or alcohol addiction.

My name is Christian Phelps, and I am a criminal defense lawyer in Spokane, Washington. During the past 10 years, I have defended criminal cases in Eastern Washington, including many identity theft cases. A majority of identity theft cases involve obtaining store credit using someone else's identity and then making significant purchases at the store. The illegally-purchased merchandise is then either sold on the street or returned to the store for cash. Other identity theft crimes include:

• Mail theft (which is a federal offense)
• Assuming another person's identity to commit fraud or forgery
• Forging checks
• Fraudulent wire transfers and electronic money transfers
• Obtaining goods or services under a fraudulent name.
• Using someone else's credit card numbers to make a purchase over the Internet
• Setting up a fictitious company and obtaining credit
• Stealing credit cards

Keep in mind that any theft of more than $250 is a felony in Washington state, and felony convictions can cause you to lose your civil rights and prevent you from getting future employment opportunities.

There are many defenses your lawyer can use if you have been charged with identity theft. For example, the evidence in these cases is usually obtained through a search of your home or car; if that search was illegal or unconstitutional, the evidence can be suppressed.

There are also diversion programs if you don’t have prior criminal history and are able to make restitution. If you successfully complete a diversion program, you won't end up with a criminal record. I can help you determine the best option for you.

Contact us for your free consultation: if you have been charged with identity theft in Washington or Oregon, DON'T talk to police or anyone else until you have talked with me, Spokane criminal defense attorney Christian Phelps.