Using false identification is just as ancient as the oldest profession in the world. While using false identification is a criminal offense in itself, there are a plethora of other criminal offenses that may come along with the use of false or incorrect identification. With the correct identification, you are able to do things as simple as entering a club or as extreme as rent an entire apartment. With the rapid progression of technology, the ability to portray others is as easy as 1-2-3. Laws vary from state to state and depending on the criminal offense committed with false identification, you can face jail time and be considered a felon.
It is best to understand what constitutes something as fake identification, or false. Yes, you can even have your own name, and photo on the identification card you use, but maybe you falsify information such as your date of birth. The more obvious offense may be to use someone else’s identification as your own. When false identification is used, the person that used the identification is held responsible. However, other parties that are involved may also face criminal charges. The individual that provided the identification may be charged, as well as the individual that knowingly accepted any false identification. Your role in the offense will determine your punishment, should you be arrested. Some states will consider some roles less serious and therefore the punishment less serious.
It is likely that the individual using the false identification is using it to gain access to things not typically accessible to them because they are underage. These actions usually include the purchasing of alcohol or cigarettes or entering a bar that is age-restricted. These offenses are punishable by jail time, fines, or maybe even probation. No matter the extremity of your offense, you will likely need to hire a criminal defense attorney for the best possible outcome. At the time, it may seem very minor and like something that does not require much attention, but whether you are under the age of 18 or 21, should you or someone you know to be charged with using false identification, it is best to speak with a skilled criminal defense attorney as soon as possible so that you are aware of all of the options you may have. The sooner you speak to an attorney, the better, in some cases charges may be reduced or dropped completely. Speak with a skilled criminal defense attorney in Decatur, GA immediately.
Thanks to Andrew R. Lynch, P.C. for their insight into criminal law and false IDs.