CALIFORNIA CRIMINAL LAWYERS

Accused of Holding a Fake ID? We Can Help!

How a Law Firm Can Help if You Have Been Caught with a Fake ID in Los Angeles

Underage teens in Los Angeles are being tempted to buy fake IDs, which can be used to purchase alcohol, cigarettes, and to enter bars and dance clubs meant only for adults over 21 years of age. These IDs can be purchased for less than $100, and are produced with magnetic strips and holograms, making them look identical to legitimate IDs.

Unfortunately, being caught with a fake ID in Los Angeles can lead to hefty consequences. Under California law, offenders may face a felony prosecution, fines ranging from $250 to $1,000, up to six months in county jail, and 32 hours of community service. Even attempting to purchase a fake ID can result in up to $250 in fines, 36 hours of community service, and a possible one-year loss of driving privileges. Moreover, the DMV is actively working with bar and club owners to catch minors using fake IDs.

If you have been caught with a fake ID in LA or have attempted to purchase one, don’t panic. A professional and dedicated law firm can help ensure you get the minimum sentence and fines according to state law.

What is Considered a Fake ID in California?

A fake ID is any identification card that has been altered, forged, falsified, duplicated, counterfeited, or reproduced. If you intend to use a fake ID to commit forgery, you may be arrested and charged with fraud under California Penal Code 470b.

How Can a Law Firm Help?

An experienced law firm can help you with your situation in several ways:

Defense 1: You were not aware that your ID was fake or altered.

You cannot be found guilty under Penal Code 470b unless the prosecutor can prove that you knew your ID was fake beyond a reasonable doubt. If the ID in your possession contains accurate information about you, it can be argued that you did not know it was fake.

Defense 2: You weren’t using the ID to commit fraud.

In order for a prosecutor to charge you with a fake ID in California, they must prove that you intended to use it to commit fraud. If you were caught with the ID in your possession but had not used it, the prosecution may have difficulty proving that you were intending to use it unlawfully.

Defense 3: The fake ID was not in your actual possession.

You may be charged with possession of a fake ID in LA even if it was not yours. It could belong to your friend, sister, roommate, etc., and you may not have even known it was there. A competent law firm can help you prove that you were unaware of its existence.

Do You Need Legal Help?

If you have been caught with a fake ID in Los Angeles or have attempted to purchase one, contact a law firm immediately for the legal representation possible. Our lawyers understand how serious these charges can be and will work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected.

Below is a table that outlines important information regarding fake IDs in Los Angeles:

Penalties for Using or Attempting to Buy a Fake ID in Los Angeles

| Penalty | Punishment |
| — | — |
| Having or Using a Fake ID | $250 to $1,000 in fines, Up to 6 months in county jail, 32 hours of community service |
| Attempting to Purchase a Fake ID | $250 in fines, 36 hours of community service, possible one-year loss of driving privileges |

Defenses for a Fake ID Charge in Los Angeles

| Defense | Explanation |
| — | — |
| Not Aware the ID Was Altered or Fake | You cannot be charged under Penal Code 470b unless the prosecutor can prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you knew your ID was fake |
| Not Using the ID for Fraud | Prosecutors must prove that you intended to use your fake ID to commit fraud |
| ID Not in Your Actual Possession | You may be charged with possession of a fake ID even if it was not yours |

Contact us for more information regarding your fake ID charge in LA. Let our dedicated and professional team of lawyers help you.