Navigating the Legalities and Consequences of Credit Card Fraud (PC 484e – PC 484i) in California

In the complex world of financial crimes, understanding the nuances of credit card fraud as outlined in California Penal Code 484e to 484i is crucial. At Inland Empire Criminal Defense, we aim to provide clarity and guidance on these laws, which are essential for anyone facing related charges or seeking to understand their legal implications.

California Penal Code 484e-484i: A Detailed Breakdown

Legal Provisions and Specific Offenses:

• Penal Code 484e: This section addresses stolen credit cards, making it unlawful to sell or possess another person’s credit card or their information without consent.
• Penal Code 484f: This part deals with forging credit card information. It is a crime to alter an existing credit card or to sign another person’s name in a transaction without consent.
• Penal Code 484g: This section pertains to the fraudulent use of credit or debit cards, prohibiting the use of stolen, fake, or expired cards for obtaining cash or goods.
• Penal Code 484h: This code is specific to credit card fraud committed by retailers, including accepting payments through stolen or invalid cards and presenting false evidence of transactions.
• Penal Code 484i: This section covers counterfeiting credit cards, including manufacturing or possessing counterfeit cards or the equipment to make them.
• Penal Code 484j: This law prohibits the intentional communication of credit card information with the intent to defraud, including PIN numbers, passwords, or other private account information.

Prosecution and Defense Strategies

To prosecute these offenses, the state must prove the defendant’s intent and actions aligning with the specifics of the respective codes. Defenses may include lack of intent to commit fraud, arrest without probable cause, or unlawful search and seizure.

Potential Penalties and Sentencing

The penalties for these offenses vary, with some being “wobbler” crimes (chargeable as misdemeanors or felonies). For instance, violations of PC 484e can lead to grand theft charges with up to three years in county jail. Similar penalties apply to 484f (forgery), 484g, and 484h (either grand theft or petty theft). Violations of 484i are often wobbler offenses with severe penalties including felony charges, while 484j violations are generally misdemeanors.

Inland Empire Criminal Defense: Your Ally in Navigating Credit Card Fraud Cases

Understanding and navigating the legal landscape of credit card fraud requires expertise and experience. At Inland Empire Criminal Defense, we are committed to providing thorough legal representation for those accused under these statutes.

If you’re facing charges under California Penal Code 484e-484i for credit card fraud, it’s essential to have a skilled Rancho Cucamonga attorney by your side. At Inland Empire Criminal Defense, we specialize in these complex financial cases and are committed to defending your rights. Contact us at 909-939-7126 for expert legal advice and representation. Our experienced team in Ontario, serving the Rancho Cucamonga area, is ready to assist you through every step of your legal journey.