Maryland Fake ID Lawyer
Fake identification documents are common among high school and college students, and some young people may have the impression that fake ID charges are not really a big deal—however this couldn’t be further from the truth. The fact is, if you or your child has been charged with a fake ID offense, you will need the help of an experienced Maryland fake ID lawyer right away.
In Maryland, fake ID offenses are considered identity fraud crimes and can carry harsh penalties that can affect an individual’s future employment opportunities. Your Maryland fake ID attorney can put forth a strong defense on your behalf, helping you to fight a fake ID charge that could negatively impact your life. Call today to discuss your case with a criminal lawyer Maryland.
Maryland Fake ID Charges
There are several ways a person can end up with a fake ID charge. A person can be arrested for making, selling, possessing or using a fake ID, but he or she could also end up in trouble with the law for lending an authentic ID document for use by another person.
Unfortunately, this means you could be facing fake ID charges if your ID was actually lost or stolen, or “borrowed” without your knowledge by a friend or family member. In fact, the U.S. Department of Justice reports that borrowed legitimate IDs represent the majority – up to 95 percent – of fake IDs. If you have been wrongly accused of a fake ID offense, your Maryland fake ID lawyer can help.
Individuals can receive charges for possessing a fake ID under either Maryland Criminal Law Section 8-303, or under the Maryland Traffic Article (TA), Section 16-301, both of which impose different penalties upon conviction.
Types of Fake Government IDs
When you think about a fake ID, a false driver’s license probably comes to mind, but a fake ID can actually be any type of misrepresented or fraudulent government documentation, like a social security card, passport, or birth certificate. Regardless of what type of documentation you have been accused of misrepresenting, however, our Maryland fake ID attorneys understand that such charges can be intimidating, and we’re ready to bring our experience to bear on your case.
Maryland Fake ID Penalties
Possessing or using a fake ID in Maryland is considered a misdemeanor punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a $500 fine. Selling a fake ID, however, carries a harsher penalty of up to 2 years in prison and a potential fine of up to $2000. Making and distributing fake IDs may also warrant federal charges and time in federal prison. Those convicted of a fake ID offense may also lose their driver’s license for up to 6 months for a first offense or a year for a second offense.
In addition, a fake ID conviction could result in penalties through a student’s college or university, for instance. While these types of penalties, like suspension from school or sports, loss of scholarships or honors status, or expulsion, do not affect a student’s criminal record, they can significantly affect a student’s future, including his or her eligibility for graduate school or financial aid assistance.
Consult an Experienced Maryland Fake ID Lawyer
If you or someone you know has been charged with a fake ID offense, your Maryland fake ID lawyer can fight to clear your name in court and restore your reputation and good standing at your academic institution.
While some may downplay the severity of a fake ID charge, its potential to negatively impact your future cannot be ignored. However, with one of our Maryland fake ID attorneys by your side, you can have peace of mind in knowing that an experienced criminal defense attorney is looking out for your best interests.