Chicago Identity Theft Lawyer

The wealth of personal and secure information that is now obtainable online and by using technology has increased the prevalence of identity theft, which in turn has increased the penalties associated with identity theft. In general, obtaining, identity theft is defined as selling, or using someone else’s unlawfully acquired personal information in order to gain access to confidential information or finances. The penalties for identity theft vary depending on the amount of money stolen, but may have harsher penalties if the victim is a member of the armed forces, disabled, or an elderly person.

Penalties Include

• $300 or less is a Class 4 felony, punishable by 1-3 years in prison
• $300-$2,000 is a Class 3 felony, punishable by 2-5 years in prison
• $2,000-$10,000 is a Class 2 felony, punishable by 3-7 years in prison
• $10,000-$100,000 is a Class 1 felony, punishable by 4-15 years in prison
• $100,000 or more is a Class X felony, punishable by 6-30 years in prison with no possibility of probation.