Credit Card Fraud Charges in Florida: How to Protect Your Future
Being accused of credit card fraud charges in Florida can be overwhelming. A conviction can lead to severe penalties, including jail time, fines, and a lasting criminal record. The Orlando criminal defense lawyers at the Rivas Law Firm have successfully defended clients across Central Florida facing credit card fraud, theft, and counterfeiting charges, as well as federal credit card fraud charges.
If you have been arrested or are under investigation for credit card fraud, don’t wait. Call 407-644-2466 to speak with an experienced Orlando Credit Card Fraud Defense Attorney at the Rivas Law Firm today.
Understanding Credit Card Fraud Laws in Florida
Florida law takes financial crimes—especially those involving credit cards—very seriously. Depending on the type of fraud, the charges can range from misdemeanors to first-degree felonies. Here’s how Florida statutes define and punish different types of offenses.
Counterfeit Credit Cards
Under Florida Statute 817.611, making, selling, or using counterfeit credit cards is a felony.
- Possession or trafficking involving fewer than 50 cards is a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
- Cases involving 50 or more cards rise to a first-degree felony, with sentences of up to 30 years in prison.
Credit Card Theft
Stealing a credit card for personal use or resale can lead to serious consequences under Florida Statute 817.60. Even a single act of credit card theft is a first-degree misdemeanor, carrying potential penalties of up to one year in jail, probation, and fines up to $1,000.
Fraudulent Use of Credit Cards
Using a stolen or forged credit card—or pretending that a stolen card belongs to you—is prohibited under Florida Statute 817.61.
- First offenses or smaller amounts are charged as a first-degree misdemeanor.
- Repeat offenses or larger frauds can escalate to a third-degree felony, with penalties of up to five years in prison, five years’ probation, and a $5,000 fine.
Credit Card Skimming Devices
Installing or using a credit card skimmer—an illegal device placed on ATMs or gas pumps—is also a serious crime under Florida Statute 817.625. Credit card skimming is a third-degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and steep fines.
How an Orlando Defense Attorney Can Help You
When facing credit card fraud charges in Florida, having a skilled Orlando criminal defense lawyer can make a major difference in the outcome of your case. The Rivas Law Firm’s experienced team works tirelessly to protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.
Here’s how a strong defense strategy can help:
- Challenging unlawful searches and seizures. If police violated legal procedures, certain evidence can be suppressed.
- Negotiating with the State Attorney’s Office. Our lawyers will negotiate on your behalf early in the process.
- Preparing for trial. If your case goes to court, our team presents mitigating evidence and arguments to show lack of intent or involvement.
- Protecting your record. Many clients qualify for pretrial diversion or other alternatives to avoid a conviction.
Our criminal defense team understands how prosecutors build these cases. We use that knowledge to fight for a favorable outcome.
Why You Need a Lawyer for Credit Card Fraud Charges
Even a single fraud-related conviction can harm your life—affecting your job, finances, and personal reputation. Working with an experienced Florida criminal defense attorney gives you the chance to protect your future. The legal team at the Rivas Law Firm is known for its track record of success and aggressive courtroom strategy in defending white-collar and fraud-related crimes.
If you’ve been charged with:
- Using or selling counterfeit credit cards
- Stealing credit cards for resale
- Fraudulent use of someone else’s card
- Possession or installation of a credit card skimmer
You need an Orlando credit card fraud lawyer who knows how to navigate the criminal justice system and negotiate with prosecutors in Central Florida.
Call 407-644-2466 today for a free consultation and begin building a defense that fights for your freedom.
FAQs About Credit Card Fraud in Florida
1. What should I do if I’m accused of credit card fraud?
Avoid talking to law enforcement without your attorney present. Contact a criminal defense lawyer in Orlando as soon as possible to evaluate your case and protect your rights.
2. Can credit card fraud charges be dismissed?
Yes, if evidence was obtained improperly or the prosecution lacks proof of intent or knowledge.
3. How much jail time could I face for credit card fraud?
Penalties vary by the charge—from up to one year in jail for misdemeanors to 30 years in prison for first-degree felonies. The severity depends on the amount of fraud and prior offenses.
Call 407-644-2466 to speak with an experienced and aggressive Orlando criminal defense attorney at the Rivas Law Firm.
