Due to the importance of credit cards for consumers to build their credit standing and make necessary purchases, crimes involving these cards can be penalized particularly harshly. As such, Georgia, like many states, has broad laws surrounding this type of fraud, meaning a variety of actions can lead to criminal charges. If you are facing a credit card fraud offense in Goeriga, it’s critical to understand your legal options. The following blog explores this offense in further detail, including the penalties you can face if convicted. You’ll also learn the importance of working with a Cobb County criminal defense lawyer to explore your legal options during these matters.
What Constitutes Credit Card Fraud in Georgia?
Credit card fraud encompasses a considerable amount of deceitful actions and behaviors regarding these transactions.
As such, any of the following actions can be considered financial transaction fraud in Georgia, and you can be charged accordingly:
- Using a card without the permission of the cardholder
- Knowingly using a lost or stolen card
- Purchasing a card from anyone other than a card issuer
- Selling a lost or stolen card
- Using a credit card number that does not exist
It’s important to understand that consumers are not the only entities that can commit credit card fraud. A merchant can face charges if they knowingly accept a card that is lost, stolen, or forged with the intent to defraud the cardholder or issuer.
You should also note that you do not need to physically steal a card in order to face the consequences. As such, if you use methods like hacking, phishing, or scamming to obtain someone’s credit card information, you can still be held liable, even if you do not have the physical card.
What Penalties Can I Face if Convicted?
In the event you are convicted of credit card fraud in Georgia, you can face serious penalties, as this is a felony offense. It’s also important to understand that you can be charged and convicted of this crime if you never even use the card for purchases or transactions. The act of stealing the card or the card information with the intent to commit fraud is enough for a conviction. This offense carries between one and five years in prison and fines of up to $5,000. In addition, you may be ordered to pay restitution to the cardholder for the damages caused.
In addition, if you forged a credit card, you can face penalties for this offense. This typically includes one to three years in jail, and additional $5,000 fines.
As you can see, this offense is not taken lightly in Georgia. That is why it is in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney as soon as possible to explore your legal options. At Miller Law Practice, our firm understands how difficult these matters can be to navigate, which is why we are committed to helping you through these matters. When you need guidance, our firm is here. Contact us today to learn more.