What Type of Lawyer Handles Identity Theft and Fraudulent Purchases?

Home Our Blog What Type of Lawyer Handles Identity Theft and Fraudulent Purchases?

By Nathaniel Pitoniak on October 15th, 2025 in Criminal Defense

If you’re facing allegations of identity theft or fraudulent purchases, you need a criminal fraud defense lawyer with direct experience in white collar crime.

These complex, high-stakes cases often require someone skilled in defending against fraud charges and managing the high burden of proof.

The Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak can help clarify your legal rights and options when facing these serious charges in Houston, TX.

Schedule a confidential consultation online or at (832) 315-6283 to learn how a dedicated fraud defense attorney can help protect your freedoms and future.

Key Takeaways About What Type of Lawyer Handles Identity Theft and Fraudulent Purchases

Select representation from a criminal defense lawyer experienced in white-collar crimes—including identity theft, financial fraud, cybercrime, credit card fraud, and forgery.
Prioritize legal teams with experience in state and federal courts, including those who regularly appear in U.S. District Courts on federal fraud cases.
Look for an attorney adept at challenging complex digital evidence and navigating issues surrounding cybersecurity, digital forensics, and online transactions.
An experienced financial fraud lawyer will advance your interests in negotiations around restitution for fraud victims and repayment agreements with the court or prosecution.
A skilled fraud purchase lawyer can dismantle prosecution arguments, negotiate with law enforcement and prosecutors, and actively manage outcomes involving penalties, probation, or settlement.
Legal professionals like those at The Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak are dedicated advocates, from initial investigation to trial. Navigating high-stakes charges like these demands a proactive defense; don’t risk your record or freedom by going it alone.

What Is Considered Identity Theft and Fraudulent Purchases in Houston?

Identity theft and fraudulent purchases encompass a range of criminal allegations, often involving the unauthorized use of someone else’s personal or financial information. Common examples of actions that may lead to these charges include: Handcuffs rest beside a laptop and credit cards, visually portraying identity theft and financial cybercrime.

Using stolen credit card information to make purchases.
Opening bank accounts or lines of credit under another person’s name.
Forging signatures on financial documents or checks.
Hacking into online accounts to steal funds or personal data.
Participating in phishing schemes to obtain sensitive information.
Using counterfeit identification to commit financial fraud.

These actions can result in serious legal consequences, including state or federal charges. If you face allegations of identity theft or fraudulent purchases, consulting with a skilled criminal defense lawyer is critical to understanding your options and building a strong defense.

What Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do to Help After Being Charged with Identity Theft or Fraudulent Purchases?

Defending against identity theft or fraudulent purchase charges requires incredible legal knowledge. A skilled criminal defense lawyer will focus on dismantling the prosecution’s case and protecting your rights at every stage. Here’s how they can help:

Analyze financial records: White-collar crime attorneys are adept at reviewing complex financial documents to identify inconsistencies or errors in the prosecution’s evidence.
Challenge digital evidence: Cybercrime lawyers can help scrutinize digital footprints, such as IP addresses and transaction logs, to uncover weaknesses in the case.
Negotiate with prosecutors: Experienced fraud defense lawyers can work to reduce charges, secure plea agreements, or explore pretrial diversion programs.
Navigate federal and state courts: Defense teams with experience in both state and federal jurisdictions ensure comprehensive representation tailored to the specifics of your case.
Advocate for restitution terms: Financial fraud lawyers can challenge inflated restitution demands and negotiate manageable payment plans.

By leveraging their experience with similar cases, criminal defense lawyers provide a strategic advantage in fighting identity theft and fraud charges. Their role is to defend against the allegations and minimize the long-term impact on your finances, freedom, and reputation.

What to Look for in a Criminal Defense Lawyer Handling Identity Theft and Fraud Cases

Choosing the right criminal defense lawyer is critical when facing identity theft or fraudulent purchase charges. The attorney you select should have specific qualifications and experience to handle these complex cases effectively. Key qualities to look for include:

Experience in white-collar crime: Lawyers with a background in white-collar crime understand the intricacies of financial fraud, digital evidence, and complex legal strategies.
Proven success in state and federal cases: A strong track record in state and federal courts ensures your lawyer can navigate the unique challenges of each jurisdiction.
Local legal knowledge in financial and cybercrime: Attorneys focusing on financial fraud and cybercrime are equipped to handle cases involving digital footprints, online transactions, and advanced forensic evidence.
Strong negotiation skills: Look for a lawyer who can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges, secure plea deals, or explore pretrial diversion programs.
Client-centered approach: A good defense lawyer will prioritize your needs, communicate clearly, and develop a strategy tailored to your specific situation.

The right criminal defense lawyer will not only defend against the charges but also work to protect your future by minimizing penalties, safeguarding your reputation, and addressing long-term consequences. Taking the time to find an attorney with these qualifications can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.

What Penalties Could I Face Without Legal Support Protecting My Rights?

Facing identity theft or fraudulent purchase charges without legal representation can lead to severe penalties. These consequences are often dictated by the specific statutes under which you are charged, and the absence of a skilled defense lawyer can leave you vulnerable to the harshest outcomes. Potential penalties include:

Imprisonment: Under Texas Penal Code §32.51, identity theft is classified as a state jail felony or higher, depending on the number of items obtained or used. Depending on the severity of the offense, convictions can result in jail time ranging from 180 days to 20 years.
Hefty fines: Financial penalties for identity theft and fraud can reach up to $10,000 for felony convictions, as outlined in Texas law. These fines are often compounded by restitution orders to compensate victims.
Restitution to victims: Courts frequently order defendants to repay victims for financial losses, which can include unauthorized purchases, legal fees, and other damages. Without a lawyer, you may face inflated restitution demands that go unchallenged.
Permanent criminal record: A conviction for identity theft or fraud will appear on your criminal record, impacting your ability to secure employment, housing, or professional licenses.
Federal penalties: If charged under federal statutes like 18 U.S.C. §1028 (Identity Theft) or 18 U.S.C. §1343 (Wire Fraud), penalties can include longer prison sentences, higher fines, and additional consequences such as forfeiture of assets.

Without a defense lawyer to protect your rights, you risk facing the maximum penalties allowed by law. A skilled attorney can challenge the evidence, negotiate reduced charges, and advocate for alternative sentencing options, such as probation or diversion programs.

What Legal Strategies Might a Lawyer Use to Defend Against Identity Theft and Fraud Charges?

A skilled criminal defense lawyer will tailor their legal strategies to the specifics of your case, focusing on protecting your rights and achieving a favorable case outcome minimizing the impact on your future. Common strategies used in identity theft and fraud cases include:

Challenging the evidence: Lawyers will scrutinize the prosecution’s evidence, such as financial records, digital footprints, or witness statements, to identify inconsistencies or procedural errors.
Proving Lack of Intent: Many fraud charges require proof of intent. Your attorney may argue that any alleged actions were unintentional or the result of a misunderstanding.
Establishing an alibi: If you were not present at the time or location of the alleged crime, your lawyer can present evidence to support your alibi.
Questioning the chain of custody: Your attorney may challenge whether digital or physical evidence was properly handled and preserved, potentially leading to its exclusion from the case.
Negotiating reduced charges or dismissal: Defense lawyers often work with prosecutors to negotiate plea deals, reduced charges, or even case dismissals, especially when evidence is weak.
Exploring pretrial diversion programs: In some cases, your lawyer may advocate for alternative resolutions, such as pretrial diversion programs, which can help you avoid a conviction.

By leveraging their local legal knowledge, a criminal defense attorney from The Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak can build a strong defense that challenges the prosecution’s case and protects your future.

When Is the Right Time to Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney for Identity Theft and Fraud Charges?

Handcuffs and wooden gavel. The moment you face allegations of identity theft or fraudulent purchases is the right time to explore your legal options. The sooner a lawyer is involved, the better your chances of protecting your rights and building a strong defense.

Other scenarios that may indicate it’s time to call a criminal defense attorney include:

Receiving a notice of investigation: If you’ve been contacted by law enforcement or federal agencies like the FBI regarding identity theft or fraud, it’s critical to involve a lawyer immediately.
Being served with a subpoena: Subpoenas for financial records or testimony often signal that you are under scrutiny. A defense attorney can guide you on how to respond without incriminating yourself.
Discovering your name linked to fraudulent activity: If you’ve been informed that your name or information has been tied to fraudulent purchases or financial crimes, legal representation is essential to address the situation proactively.
Facing arrest or formal charges: Whether you’ve been arrested or charged under statutes like Texas Penal Code §32.51 or federal laws such as 18 U.S.C. §1028, contacting a lawyer immediately can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Receiving restitution demands: If victims or prosecutors are seeking restitution for alleged financial losses, a lawyer can help negotiate fair terms and challenge inflated claims.

Waiting to contact a lawyer can lead to missed opportunities for early intervention, such as negotiating with prosecutors or challenging evidence before charges are filed. By involving a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible, you can take control of your case and work toward a favorable case outcome.

Identity Theft and Fraudulent Purchase Defense FAQs

Who should I contact if I’m under investigation but have not yet been charged?

You should contact a criminal defense lawyer or white-collar crime attorney as soon as you learn you’re under investigation. Early legal intervention can shape the trajectory of your case, potentially preventing charges from being filed or minimizing their severity.

Are federal charges handled differently than state charges?

Federal charges often involve higher stakes, stricter penalties, and more complex procedures. A defense lawyer with proven experience in federal fraud cases is essential to navigating these challenges and protecting your rights.

Can I resolve my case without it appearing on my record?

In some cases, it’s possible to avoid a conviction on your record through options like pretrial diversion programs, case dismissals, or carefully negotiated plea agreements. A skilled defense attorney will evaluate your case and pursue the best path to safeguard your future.

What if someone else used my identity?

If your identity was stolen and used fraudulently, your lawyer will focus on gathering evidence to prove misuse or mistaken identity. This may include challenging the prosecution’s evidence and presenting documentation that clears your name.

Is it possible to avoid jail on these charges?

Avoiding jail depends on the specifics of your case, including the charges, evidence, and your legal representation. A skilled defense team can work to reduce penalties, negotiate alternative sentencing, or even secure a dismissal, giving you a stronger possibility of avoiding incarceration.

Contact The Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak for Identity Theft and Fraud Defense

If you’ve been accused of identity theft or fraudulent purchases in Texas, you need experienced legal representation. A skilled criminal defense lawyer can protect your rights, defend your record, and help you navigate the legal process.

The Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak focuses on defending individuals facing white-collar crime charges, including identity theft and financial fraud. With extensive experience in both state and federal cases, Nathaniel Pitoniak provides strategic and personalized defense tailored to your unique situation.

Take the first step toward protecting your future. Contact The Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak online or at (832) 315-6283 for a confidential consultation and immediate legal assistance.