Access Device Fraud

Access device fraud is a significant federal offense with substantial penalties. In Steubenville, it is unlawful to use, produce, or traffic in counterfeit or altered access devices. This includes cards that are incomplete, expired, canceled, or belong to another person without their consent. Using someone else’s credit card, debit card, ATM card, or any card associated with an account number without permission is against the law and can lead to serious legal consequences.

If you are knowingly involved in these fraudulent activities, you will likely face unfavorable results. Using another person’s access device for unauthorized purchases or withdrawals can result in prosecution in either a federal or Steubenville court. To effectively handle this complex legal situation, it is crucial to get help from our knowledgeable access device fraud lawyers. A skilled Steubenville criminal lawyer can provide the defense you need.

Vital Facts About Access Device Fraud

Access device fraud covers a broad range of offenses involving:

• SIM cards for mobile phones
• Long-distance calling codes
• Credit or debit card numbers
• Personal identification numbers (PINs)
• Computer passwords
• ATM cards
• Debit cards
• Credit cards

Depending on the specific details, a conviction for access device fraud could lead to a prison sentence of up to 10 years and a fine of up to $250,000. The exact penalty is determined by the case’s specifics and federal sentencing guidelines. Given these serious potential outcomes, it is vital to consult a Steubenville DUI attorney.

Grading of Access Device Fraud Charges

Access device fraud charges can be classified as either misdemeanors or felonies, largely based on the monetary value of the stolen item or service. If the value is less than $50, the offense is a second-degree misdemeanor. When the value is between $50 and $500, it becomes a more serious first-degree misdemeanor. For any amount exceeding $500, the charge is classified as a first-degree felony.

Federal vs. State Courts

The court system in Steubenville can be complex, especially when comparing federal courts to their state and local counterparts. It’s important to understand the key differences between these judicial systems.

A major distinction lies in the unique and complex sentencing guidelines used in federal courts to decide punishments for convicted individuals. These guidelines are different from those used in state and local courts. Furthermore, federal prosecutors have extensive resources available to them, including the findings from in-depth investigations conducted by federal agents. This level of access to resources distinguishes them from their counterparts in the Steubenville area, who may not have such comprehensive support. A Steubenville criminal lawyer with federal court experience is essential.

If you are convicted of a federal crime and face severe penalties, our team of top-tier Federal Criminal Defense Lawyers is ready to help. With their specialized expertise, they will listen carefully to your circumstances and work to provide the best possible legal representation.

What to Do If You Are Arrested for Access Device Fraud

In any criminal situation, it is important to remain polite and cooperative with the arresting officer. Do not antagonize them. After your arrest, it is critical to follow these guidelines:

• Do not speak to the police or prosecutor without your lawyer present. Any statements you provide can, and likely will be, used against you.
• If the police try to question you, politely state that you will not answer questions until you have your legal representative with you. A Steubenville DUI attorney can protect your rights during questioning.

How Logue Law Can Aid You

When you’re charged with access device fraud, the expertise of a licensed and experienced Federal Criminal Lawyer is crucial. At Logue Law, our attorneys meticulously evaluate all your options to secure the best possible outcome for your case. We provide you with a lawyer who is thoroughly prepared for your trial or preliminary hearing and who negotiates diligently behind the scenes to achieve the most favorable resolution.

If you or a loved one is facing an access device fraud charge, contact our Steubenville criminal lawyer immediately. We are here to stand by your side and provide the support you need.

For a free initial consultation with an experienced access device fraud lawyer in the Steubenville area, contact us online or call 844.PITT.DUI.