Fort Worth Credit or Debit Card Abuse Defense Lawyer

Trusted Defense Attorney Handling Cases Involving Credit or Debit Card Abuse in Fort Worth, Texas

Criminal charges involving credit card abuse can arise from simple mistakes or good intentions. However, the moment the police get involved, you should reach out to a skilled defense attorney who can help you fight the charges in court. A Fort Worth credit card abuse defense lawyer can represent you in court and fight to protect your rights.

At The Meza Law Firm, PLLC, we provide clear counsel and strong advocacy for complicated charges. Attorney Edwardo Meza has over a decade of legal experience, which has given him a wealth of insights into how to handle misdemeanor and felony cases for clients in need.

Understanding Credit Card Abuse Charges

Credit card abuse in Texas is a criminal offense that covers the misuse of credit or debit cards to obtain property, services, or money through fraud. The charge is broader than many people expect. It does not only apply to using a stolen card at a store. A person can face credit card abuse charges for several types of conduct, including:

• Using a card without the cardholder's effective consent, knowing they are not the cardholder
• Using a fake or fictitious credit card to obtain a benefit
• Using a card that the person knows has expired, been canceled, or been revoked
• Receiving a card with the knowledge that it was stolen
• Possessing a card with intent to obtain a benefit fraudulently
• Buying or selling a card from someone other than the issuer

Many of these cases involve family members, roommates, or coworkers. A person may have used someone else's card in the past with permission, only to face charges after a disagreement. Others are accused after a card is found in a wallet, car, or home during a police search.

What Penalties Could You Face for Credit Card Abuse in Fort Worth?

Under Texas law, credit card abuse is typically charged as a state jail felony. A state jail felony can lead to 180 days to two years in a state jail facility and a fine of up to $10,000. Even a small purchase made with another person's card can result in a felony charge.

The penalties increase when the offense is committed against an elderly individual. In that situation, the charge becomes a third-degree felony, which carries two to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. A court may also order restitution, requiring repayment of any money lost by the cardholder, bank, or business.

A felony conviction can have lasting effects beyond fines and jail time. Theft and fraud offenses can make it harder to find work, rent a home, or obtain a professional license. Employers often view these convictions as a sign of dishonesty, especially for jobs involving money or customer information.

Possible Defenses Against Credit Card Abuse Allegations in Texas

Possible defenses against credit card abuse allegations vary from case to case. Consent is one of the most common issues. If the cardholder gave you permission to use the card, the state may struggle to prove that you acted without effective consent. Text messages, past purchase history, and witness statements can help show that use of the card was authorized.

Ignorance can also be a defense in some cases. A person who was not aware that a card was stolen, expired, or canceled may not have committed a crime. The state must also prove that you intended to obtain a benefit fraudulently. However, the state may presume that you had knowledge that a card was expired or canceled if you were given notice by the issuer.

Mistaken identity is another possible defense. Surveillance footage can be grainy, and online purchases may be linked to the wrong person. Our attorney can also review whether police conducted a lawful search when the card was found. Evidence obtained through an illegal search may be excluded from the case.

Contact Our Fort Worth Credit or Debit Card Abuse Defense Attorney Today

A credit card abuse charge can put your record and your freedom in jeopardy, even when the actual dollar amount involved is small. At The Meza Law Firm, PLLC, we examine the evidence closely and work toward the best possible outcome for your case. Contact our Fort Worth, TX credit or debit card abuse defense lawyer or call 817-732-6392 to set up a free initial consultation.