Louisiana Fake ID Charges: Understanding the Consequences of Using a Fake ID

A fake ID is a common tool among teenagers and college students looking to access age-restricted activities such as buying alcohol or entering bars. While the use of a fake ID may seem like a harmless activity, it comes with severe legal consequences. In Louisiana, using a fake ID can lead to serious charges and penalties. This article will help you understand the ramifications of using a fake ID in Louisiana and what you can do if you face these charges.

What is a Fake ID?

A fake ID is any form of identification that is falsified or tampered with in any way. It can be a student card, a driver’s license, or any other document that contains personal identification information. With the advent of modern technology, making a fake ID has become more accessible than ever before. There are even online services that can create fake IDs or sell a template for individuals to make their IDs at home. However, using a fake ID is illegal in all 50 states, including Louisiana.

Louisiana Fake ID Laws

In Louisiana, using or carrying a fake ID is a crime under Louisiana Revised Statutes (LRS) 14:112.4. The law addresses two main activities related to fake IDs: the possession of a fake ID and the use of a fake ID. Possession is a lesser offense than using, but both are punishable by law.

Possession of Fake ID

Possession of a fake ID occurs when a person carries an identification document that they know are fake or altered. In Louisiana, the punishment for possession of a fake ID is up to six months in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both. If the possession of a fake ID occurs during the commission of another crime, the perpetrator may face additional penalties.

Fraudulent Use of ID

The fraudulent use of an ID occurs when a person attempts to use a fake or altered identification card to obtain any of the benefits that come with the enjoyment of age-restricted activities. These could be purchasing alcohol or tobacco, or entering bars, clubs, and casinos. The penalties for using a fake ID in Louisiana are severe. On the first offense, the punishment is up to six months in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.

Suppose the person is underage, the court can also suspend their driver’s license for a further year. A second offense results in a more severe punishment: up to one year in jail, a fine of up to $2,000, or both. Subsequent offenses carry even harsher sentences, including fines of up to $5,000 and up to two years in prison.

Consequences of a Fake ID Charge

A conviction for a fake ID charge may have long-lasting consequences beyond the immediate jail time or fines. These consequences may affect your present and future life in the following ways.

Criminal Record

Being convicted of a fake ID charge will stay on your criminal record for life. Every time someone does a background check on you, the conviction will show up, even if it occurred years ago. This may affect your employment opportunities, rental applications, and other situations that require a background check.

Licensing and Career Impacts

If you are a student, a professional, or have any career ambitions requiring specialised licences, a fake ID conviction could jeopardize your future. For instance, if you have ambitions to become a doctor, a conviction for using a fake ID can impact your chances of getting into medical school or getting licensed to practice medicine. Similarly, if you are studying to become a licensed nurse or a teacher, the conviction may hamper your profession’s prospects.

Personal and Academic Repercussions

Using a fake ID could lead to personal consequences as well. Getting arrested for a fake ID can lead to public humiliation, legal fees, and inconvenience. Additionally, some colleges and universities take disciplinary action against students found to have used a fake ID. Punishments can include probation, suspension, or expulsion, which could significantly affect your academic records and career opportunities.

How to Deal with a Fake ID Charge

If you face Louisiana fake ID charges, your first step should be to contact a criminal defense attorney. An experienced attorney will evaluate your case and advise on the defense strategies. Some of the possible defenses that can be used to fight fake ID charges include proving that the ID belonged to you or that you didn’t intend to use the fake ID to commit any illegal activity.

Sometimes, a good defense may involve negations or plea bargain with the prosecutor. An experienced attorney can negotiate for a reduction in the charges or seek alternative sentencing options, such as deferred adjudication. To optimize the odds of obtaining the best possible outcome, it is essential to hire an experienced attorney who understands the nuances of Louisiana criminal law and has a record of fighting dishonesty charges.

Conclusion

Using a fake ID can seem like a harmless act but comes with severe legal consequences. In Louisiana, carrying or using a fake ID can result in fines, jail time, license suspension, and a criminal record that affects your present and future opportunities significantly. If caught on Louisiana fake ID charges, it’s essential to speak with a criminal defense attorney who can help build a case that seeks the best possible outcome for your situation.