What to Know About License Plate Fraud in Texas

 Posted on October 23, 2024 in Criminal Defense

Anytime someone produces a fake government-issued document, they can face charges of fraud. The specific charges differ depending on what exactly was falsified, but they all carry serious implications. Recent legislative efforts to clamp down on temporary driver's license plate fraud in Texas have underscored how prevalent this trend can be, with some experts estimating that the forged temporary license plate enterprise is worth about $200 million. If you are concerned about being implicated in a temporary license plate fraud scheme, contact an experienced San Antonio, TX criminal defense lawyer to review your options.

How is License Plate Fraud Charged?

Fraud covers a broad spectrum of illegal actions, and various penalties depend on a case's details. Falsifying certain documents, like checks that fraudulently authorize a money transfer, can be charged as a state jail felony, punishable by between 180 days and two years in jail and a fine of up to $10,000. Other types of forgery can be charged as misdemeanors, with specific penalties determined by the value of what was forged.

However, temporary license plate forgery is a bit more complicated. A recent crackdown in Texas that focused on curbing temporary paper license tag fraud involved an organized crime investigation. Since people who would want forged license tags might be trying to avoid going through government checks of their driving and criminal background, the violation is often seen as an indicator of additional criminal activity. The above-mentioned investigation revealed a nationwide distribution of fake Texas license tags on stolen cars nationwide. When you are under suspicion of license plate fraud, it is essential to have a skilled lawyer represent you and protect you from other suspicions and charges.

Defending Against Charges of Possession or Sale of Fake License Tags

A major defense strategy involves demonstrating that the defendant was unaware that the documentation was forged. The prosecution must prove that you knew the license tag was fake and willingly and falsely presented it as authentic. If you can show that you purchased a forged license tag under the assumption that it was genuine, this can help your case.

Contact a San Antonio, TX Criminal Defense Attorney

If you are facing accusations of license plate fraud, contact a reliable San Antonio, TX criminal defense lawyer immediately to understand the implications and the best way to proceed. At Law Offices of Sam H. Lock, we know how quickly situations can deteriorate, and we are dedicated to providing you with the best defense to protect your rights and get you a favorable outcome. Call us at 210-226-0965 to schedule a private consultation.