Altered or Counterfeit Credit, Debit, or Identification Card Charges in Skokie, Illinois

Possession, use, or creation of altered or counterfeit credit, debit, or identification cards is a serious criminal offense in Illinois, carrying significant legal consequences including potential prison time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing charges related to altered or counterfeit cards in Skokie, it is crucial to understand the nature of these charges, the potential penalties, and the importance of securing experienced legal representation to protect your rights and future.

What Constitutes an Altered or Counterfeit Credit, Debit, or Identification Card?

Under Illinois law, specifically 720 ILCS 5/17-31, it is illegal to possess, use, or produce credit, debit, or identification cards that have been altered or counterfeited with the intent to commit fraud. The key elements of this offense include:

• Creation of counterfeit cards: Manufacturing or producing fake credit, debit, or identification cards that are intended to mimic legitimate cards.
• Altering cards: Changing or modifying the details on an existing card, such as altering the account number, expiration date, or cardholder information to facilitate fraudulent use.
• Possession with intent to defraud: Having an altered or counterfeit card in your possession with the intent to use it fraudulently or to sell it to others for fraudulent purposes.
• Use of counterfeit or altered cards: Attempting to make purchases, withdraw funds, or gain access to services using a counterfeit or altered card.

Penalties for Possession, Use, or Creation of Altered or Counterfeit Credit, Debit, or Identification Cards in Skokie

The penalties for crimes involving altered or counterfeit cards in Illinois are severe and depend on the circumstances of the offense:

• Class 3 Felony: In most cases, possession, use, or production of an altered or counterfeit credit, debit, or identification card is charged as a Class 3 felony. Penalties include 2 to 5 years in prison and fines up to $25,000.
• Class 2 Felony: If the offense involves multiple counterfeit or altered cards, or if the fraudulent activity is part of a larger criminal enterprise, the charge may be elevated to a Class 2 felony. Penalties for a Class 2 felony include 3 to 7 years in prison and fines up to $25,000.
• Permanent criminal record: A conviction for crimes involving altered or counterfeit cards will result in a permanent criminal record, which can impact your ability to find employment, secure housing, and maintain personal and professional relationships.

Defending Against Altered or Counterfeit Card Charges in Skokie

Given the serious consequences of a conviction, it is essential to mount a strong defense against charges involving altered or counterfeit cards. Some potential defense strategies include:

• Lack of intent: The prosecution must prove that you intended to use or produce the altered or counterfeit cards for fraudulent purposes. If there was no intent to defraud, the charges may be reduced or dismissed.
• Mistaken identity: If you were wrongly identified as the person who committed the offense, presenting evidence of mistaken identity or an alibi can be crucial.
• Possession without knowledge: If you were unaware that the card in your possession was altered or counterfeit, this could serve as a defense.
• Violation of rights: If your rights were violated during the investigation or arrest, such as through unlawful search and seizure or improper handling of evidence, it may be possible to suppress key evidence, weakening the prosecution’s case.

Why Choose Andrew M. Weisberg as Your Skokie Defense Attorney for Altered or Counterfeit Card Charges?

Andrew M. Weisberg is a highly experienced criminal defense attorney with a deep understanding of Illinois law and a proven track record of defending clients against charges involving altered or counterfeit credit, debit, or identification cards in Skokie and throughout Cook County. His background as a former prosecutor provides him with unique insights into the prosecution’s strategies, enabling him to build a strong and effective defense tailored to your case.

Contact Andrew M. Weisberg for a free consultation today at (847) 350-1266 to discuss your case. With his dedication to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome, Andrew is the advocate you need in these challenging legal circumstances.