Fort Worth Impersonating a Public Servant Defense Attorney

Experienced Lawyer Representing People Charged With Impersonation of a Public Servant in Fort Worth, TX

In Texas, the crime of falsely representing yourself as a public servant carries strict penalties. A first conviction is a felony offense, which means that you need serious legal representation from the start. If you have been arrested and charged with this crime, be sure to seek legal representation as soon as possible.

Our Fort Worth, Texas impersonating a public servant defense lawyer at The Meza Law Firm, PLLC is here to provide you with clear legal advice and fierce representation in court. Attorney Edwardo Meza has over a decade of legal experience, so he is well-equipped to help fight the charges against you.

When Can You Be Charged With Impersonating a Public Servant?

Impersonating a public servant in Texas involves pretending to hold a government position in order to get someone to obey you or trust your actions. A public servant can include a police officer, judge, government inspector, code enforcement officer, or another official who works for a government agency. The key question is whether the person meant to make someone else believe they had official authority and act on that belief.

Many cases involve someone claiming to be a police officer during a traffic dispute, using flashing lights to pull over another driver, or telling a person they must follow orders. Others involve claims of working for an agency to gain access to a home or business, collect money, or obtain personal information. Texas law also covers people who claim to act through an office or court that does not legally exist, such as a made-up court used to issue fake orders or judgments.

Impersonating a public servant is a third-degree felony in Texas, which could mean anywhere from two to 10 years of prison time upon conviction, plus a possible $10,000 fine. If the impersonation was used to commit another crime, such as theft or unlawful restraint, prosecutors may file additional charges.

What Are the Penalties for Carrying False Police Identification?

Carrying false police identification is a separate offense with its own penalties. Texas law makes it a crime to make, provide, or possess a badge, ID card, patch, or other item that carries a law enforcement agency's insignia and identifies the holder as a police officer, unless the person actually holds that position. The law carves out exceptions for "dramatic or artistic" presentations. It is also a crime to mark a vehicle or other property so that it appears to belong to a law enforcement agency when it does not.

False identification as a peace officer is generally a Class B misdemeanor, which can lead to up to 180 days in county jail and a fine of up to $2,000. However, using that badge or ID to make someone believe you are an officer can lead to the much more serious felony impersonation charge.

How Can You Defend Against Public Servant Impersonation Charges in Fort Worth?

In a charge involving impersonation of a public servant, the state must prove that you meant to exercise authority you did not actually have. A joke, a costume, or a misunderstanding may not meet that standard. A witness may also have misheard what you said or assumed you were claiming authority when you were not.

In some cases, a person charged with impersonation may hold a legitimate position, such as a licensed security officer, that was misunderstood by the accuser. Depending on the facts, our firm may be able to push for a reduction of charges, a dismissal, or an alternative to conviction.

Meet With Our Fort Worth, Texas Impersonation of a Public Servant Defense Lawyer

An impersonation charge can carry felony consequences and lasting damage to your reputation. Contact our Fort Worth, TX impersonation of a public servant defense attorney or call 817-732-6392 to schedule a free consultation with The Meza Law Firm, PLLC.