Using a fake or forged ID card:
Using a fake or forged ID card in Michigan can result in serious penalties and sanctions. Police routinely conduct sweeps of local bars to verify the authenticity of their patron’s identification. Clerks in grocery and convenience stores have been trained to identify fake IDs and routinely summon the police to apprehend violators. Worse yet the potential consequences of using a fake ID, can generate a more serious charge of identity theft resulting in even harsher penalties.
If you have been Using a fake or forged ID card, we recommend that you retain experienced counsel to aid in the defense of this charge. We know the law and can help you understand your rights and develop defenses to charges levied against you. To retain Garmo & Kiste, PLC call us at (248) 398-7100 for a free consultation or contact us with a private message.
False Identification Penalties
In an effort to address the growing problem of possessing stolen, forged or false ID’s, the Michigan legislature implemented new laws in 2004 that established more severe penalties for identification related crimes. Senate Bills 912 and 913 redefined potential punishments as they related to ID forgery or possession.
* Forging an ID or using a forged ID to commit a misdemeanor carries a maximum prison sentence of 1 year and a fine of $2000.
* Carrying a forged or duplicate ID is a misdemeanor that carries a maximum prison sentence of 1 year and a fine of $2000.
* Selling, possessing with the intent to deliver, or possessing two or more forged ID’s is a felony that carries a maximum prison sentence of 5 years and a fine of $10,000.
* Forging or using a forged ID card to commit a felony carries a maximum prison sentence of 10 years and a fine of $20,000.
* Using a forged ID card to commit a felony carries a maximum prison sentence of 10 years, while committing a misdemeanor can result in a 6 month or more prison sentence. Forging an ID for use in a felony carries a maximum prison sentence of five years and a $10,000 fine.
Have you been charged with Malicious Destruction of Property (MDOP) in Michigan, for questions and to retain Garmo & Kiste, PLC, call us at (248) 398-7100 for a free
consultation.
Identity Theft:
Those who are in possession of a fake or forged ID may also find themselves charged with the serious crime of identity theft. As growing national problem, states have begun to impose harsher penalties for identity theft related crimes.
In Michigan, identity theft falls under sections MCL 445.61 through 445.71. This comprehensive set of laws covers a variety of offenses that involve the use of another person’s identity either with or without their permission. This includes using a false identity to illegally obtain goods or service.
While the establishment of the crime as a felony or misdemeanor is complex, the penalties associated with identity theft can be harsh. Those who are charged with felony identity theft can ultimately face a prison term of up to 5 years and or a fine of $25,000 if convicted. A misdemeanor carries penalties that can include incarceration for up to 30 days and a fine not to exceed $1000.
Remember, judges have a tremendous amount of discretion when imposing your punishment. Without us, or another competent attorney, you may say or do the wrong thing, increasing your punishment. For this reason, looking for an attorney who practices in the county where you were violated is particularly helpful. That said, we regularly practice in the counties of Oakland, Macomb, Wayne, and Lapeer, Livingston, Washtenaw, Genesee, and St. Clair. For more information about Identity Theft, Carrying, Using, or Forging an ID, or to retain Garmo & Kiste, PLC call us at (248) 398-7100 for a free consultation or contact us with a private message.
Why hire us?
Michigan fake, forged or stolen ID laws are complicated, and it is essential for anyone charged with a crime that falls within this classification to immediately seek out the advice and counsel of a qualified attorney. The outcome of every case will ultimately be determined on its own merits, but obtaining legal representation early in the process will help assure a more favorable outcome. One of the greatest advantages of hiring our firm is the connections we bring to the process. Typically we know the prosecutor and the judge, allowing us to anticipate the judge’s reactions, understand how the prosecutor will want to proceed, and to negotiate the best deal for our clients in efforts of removing as much uncertainty from the process as possible. For this reason, looking for an attorney who practices in the county where you were violated is particularly helpful. That said we regularly practice in the counties of Oakland, Macomb, Wayne, and Lapeer, Livingston, Washtenaw, Genesee, and St. Clair.
Let us help you navigate the Court system’s rough waters and keep you out of jail. For more information about Carrying, Using, or Forging an ID and other criminal Misdemeanors, and/or to retain Garmo & Kiste, PLC call us at (248) 398-7100 for a free consultation or contact us with a private message. Identity Theft | Using a Fake or Forged ID Card Michigan Attorney
