San Antonio Online Impersonation Attorney
Skilled Attorneys for Online Impersonation Charges in San Antonio, TX
Online impersonation is a serious criminal offense in the state of Texas. Pursuant to Texas Penal Code Section 33.07, it is illegal to impersonate someone else online with the intent to harm, defraud, intimidate, or threaten any individual or entity. If you have been charged with online impersonation in Texas, it is important to speak with an experienced San Antonio online impersonation attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.
To be convicted of online impersonation in Texas, the prosecution must prove that the defendant intentionally assumed the identity of another person online, without that person’s consent, and used that identity to communicate with another person. The communication must have been made with the intent to harm, defraud, intimidate, or threaten the other person or entity.
For example, if someone creates a fake social media account using another person’s name and personal information, and uses that account to send threatening messages to someone, they could be charged with online impersonation.
Also, even if the accused does not actually impersonate someone, they can still be charged if that person:
sends an electronic mail, instant message, text message, or similar communication that references a name, domain address, phone number, or other item of identifying information belonging to any person:
- without obtaining the other person’s consent;
- with the intent to cause a recipient of the communication to reasonably believe that the other person authorized or transmitted the communication; and
- with the intent to harm or defraud any person.
FORMER PROSECUTOR
San Antonio Criminal Defense Attorney Brad Thornton has spent years in court rooms fighting for justice. As a prosecutor, Brad was a leader on cases ranging from marijuana to murder from arrest to appeal. Who better to fight for your rights than someone who knows the “other side” and has tried the toughest of cases out there. Put his experience and knowledge to work for you.
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Defenses to Online Impersonation in Texas
If you have been charged with online impersonation in Texas, you may be wondering what defenses are available to you. Pursuant to Texas Penal Code Section 33.07, it is illegal to impersonate someone else online with the intent to harm, defraud, intimidate, or threaten any individual or entity. However, there are several possible defenses that you may be able to raise in response to these charges.
One defense to online impersonation is that you did not intentionally assume the identity of another person. In order to be convicted of online impersonation in Texas, the prosecution must prove that you intentionally assumed another person’s identity online. If you can show that you did not intentionally impersonate someone else, you may be able to avoid a conviction.
Another defense is that you did not use the assumed identity to communicate with another person. Under Texas Penal Code Section 33.07, the communication must have been made with the intent to harm, defraud, intimidate, or threaten the other person or entity. If you can show that you did not use the assumed identity to communicate with anyone, you may be able to avoid a conviction.
A third defense is that you had the consent of the person whose identity you assumed. If you can show that you had the consent of the person whose identity you assumed, you may be able to avoid a conviction for online impersonation.
It is important to note that these are just a few examples of possible defenses to online impersonation. The specific defenses available to you will depend on the circumstances of your case. An attorney can help you understand the charges against you and develop a defense strategy that is tailored to your unique situation.
Punishment Ranges
| Level of Offense | Potential Incarceration | Potential Fine |
| First-degree Felony | 5 - 99 years in prison | Up to $10,000 |
| Second-degree Felony | 2 - 20 years in prison | Up to $10,000 |
| Third-degree Felony | 2 - 10 years in prison | Up to $10,000 |
| State Jail Felony | 180 days - 2 years in jail | Up to $10,000 |
| Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year in jail | Up to $4,000 |
| Class B Misdemeanor | Up to 180 days in jail | Up to $2,000 |
Penalties to Online Impersonation
Online impersonation is a criminal offense in the state of Texas, with potentially severe punishments and collateral consequences for those found guilty of committing this crime. Pursuant to Texas Penal Code Section 33.07, it is illegal to impersonate someone else online with the intent to harm, defraud, intimidate, or threaten any individual or entity.
The potential punishments for online impersonation in San Antonio, Texas depend on the circumstances of the case. If the defendant is convicted of online impersonation for the first time, the crime is typically classified as a a third-degree felony is punishable by up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
However, if the accused did not impersonate the victim but merely used their identifying information in a message, the crime is a Class A misdemeanor is punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000.
In addition to the potential criminal punishments, those convicted of online impersonation may also face collateral consequences, such as damage to their reputation, difficulty finding employment, and difficulty obtaining loans or other financial assistance.
If you have been charged with online impersonation in San Antonio, it is important to speak with a skilled San Antonio online impersonation lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you understand the charges against you and develop a defense strategy that is tailored to your unique situation.
Contact Our Online Impersonation Lawyer, Brad Thornton, Today
If you have been charged with online impersonation in San Antonio, Texas, it is important to speak with an experienced online impersonation attorney as soon as possible. Board-certified criminal defense attorney Brad Thornton is a highly qualified and experienced attorney who can provide you with the legal representation you need to defend against these charges.
There are several reasons why you should consider calling Brad Thornton for a free consultation if you have been charged with online impersonation.
- First, Brad Thornton is a board-certified criminal defense attorney, which means he has demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of criminal law. He is also a former chief prosecutor, which means he has a unique understanding of the criminal justice system from both sides of the courtroom.
- Second, Brad Thornton has the knowledge and experience to develop a defense strategy that is tailored to your unique situation, and he will work tirelessly to protect your rights and interests.
- Finally, Brad Thornton is dedicated to providing his clients with personalized and compassionate representation. He understands the stress and uncertainty that can come with facing criminal charges, and he will do everything in his power to help you navigate the legal process and achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
If you have been charged with online impersonation in San Antonio, Texas, do not hesitate to contact Brad Thornton for a free consultation. He is ready to fight for you and help you achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
