Charged with Identity Theft in Massachusetts? Our Boston Defense Attorney Is Prepared to Fight for You
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we understand how serious an Identity Theft charge can be. With offices located in Boston and Salem, our criminal defense law firm serves individuals facing white-collar criminal charges throughout Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties, including cities such as Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, Chelsea, Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus, Cambridge, Somerville, Newton, Brookline, Dedham, or Quincy. Whether you’re facing allegations in the heart of Boston or in the surrounding areas, we are here to stand up for your rights. Our team includes aggressive criminal defense attorneys, including a former prosecutor who brings a unique perspective on how your case may be approached by the Commonwealth.
When you’re charged with Identity Theft in Massachusetts, the consequences can extend far beyond a courtroom. You may face serious legal penalties, long-term damage to your personal and professional reputation, and a future marked by ongoing scrutiny. That’s why our law firm takes a direct, strategic, and personalized approach to every Identity Theft case. We listen carefully, assess every detail, and construct a tailored legal strategy designed to protect what matters most—your future.
What Is Identity Theft in Massachusetts?
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 266, Section 37E, Identity Theft is defined as the intentional use of another person’s identifying information without their consent, typically to obtain money, goods, services, or other benefits. This identifying information can include Social Security numbers, credit card data, bank account numbers, driver’s license information, and more.
To be charged, the Commonwealth must show that you:
- Intentionally obtained or used another’s personal identifying information,
- Did so without their express permission, and
- Used that information to defraud or commit another crime.
Identity Theft is a felony in Massachusetts, and a conviction can lead to imprisonment of up to 2.5 years in jail or up to 5 years in state prison, plus a fine of up to $5,000. Victims may also be entitled to restitution, and each instance of identity misuse can be treated as a separate offense.
How We Defend Against Identity Theft Charges
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, our legal team builds defense strategies that challenge every part of the prosecution’s case. As a Boston criminal defense attorney experienced in handling white-collar crime, we know how to identify weaknesses in the evidence, procedural errors, or constitutional violations that may have occurred during the investigation.
Some common defense approaches include:
- Lack of Intent: Prosecutors must prove that you intended to commit fraud. Mistaken use or misunderstanding of another person’s data may not meet this burden.
- Insufficient Evidence: We challenge the credibility, source, and chain of custody of digital and paper evidence.
- Mistaken Identity: In some cases, the accused may have been wrongfully identified or set up by another party.
- Violation of Rights: If law enforcement obtained evidence without a valid warrant or probable cause, we move to suppress that evidence.
Our Boston defense attorney brings courtroom experience and strategic insight to every case. We do not rely on one-size-fits-all defenses. Instead, we take your case personally and represent you with the determination you deserve.
Serving Suffolk, Essex, and Middlesex Counties
Our criminal defense law firm proudly defends clients throughout Massachusetts, including but not limited to the following areas:
- Suffolk County – Boston, Brighton, Chelsea, West Roxbury
- Essex County – Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus
- Middlesex County – Cambridge, Somerville, Newton
- Norfolk County – Brookline, Dedham, Quincy
If you’re facing Identity Theft charges in any of these areas, don’t wait until your court date is near. We’re ready to build your defense as soon as possible.
Why Choose Our Criminal Defense Law Firm?
We are not general practitioners. Our focus is criminal defense, and we take pride in representing individuals who are facing serious white-collar charges, including Identity Theft. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Aggressive Representation: We fight to protect your record and reputation.
- Experience From Both Sides of the Courtroom: Our team includes a former prosecutor, which gives us insight into how the state builds its case.
- Personalized Strategy: We tailor our defense to fit the facts of your case, not a template.
- Accessible Offices: With locations in Boston and Salem, we are conveniently positioned to meet with clients across multiple counties.
- Clear Communication: You deserve to know where your case stands. We make sure you do.
Contact Our Boston Criminal Defense Attorney for Identity Theft Defense
Facing an Identity Theft charge is not something you should handle on your own. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we understand the legal complexities involved in white-collar crime, and we are here to help guide you through each stage of the legal process. Contact us now to schedule a private legal strategy session. The sooner we begin working on your defense, the more time we have to challenge the charges and protect your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Identity Theft a felony in Massachusetts?
Yes. Under M.G.L. c. 266, § 37E, Identity Theft is classified as a felony offense and carries penalties including imprisonment and fines.
What should I do if I’ve been accused of Identity Theft in Massachusetts?
Contact a qualified Massachusetts defense attorney immediately. Do not speak to investigators without legal counsel, and do not provide any written statements.
Can you go to jail for Identity Theft in Massachusetts?
Yes. A conviction can result in up to 5 years in state prison or 2.5 years in jail, in addition to fines and restitution.
How can a criminal defense attorney help with an Identity Theft case?
An experienced Boston criminal defense attorney will examine the prosecution’s evidence, identify legal defenses, protect your rights, and develop a strategy to seek dismissal, reduction, or acquittal.
Is it possible to get Identity Theft charges dismissed in Massachusetts?
Yes, in some cases. If there is insufficient evidence, lack of intent, or violation of your constitutional rights, charges may be dismissed or reduced. Each case is fact-specific.