What does an Identity Theft lawyers do?
Identity theft lawyers in your area help their clients recover from the effects of identity theft. This can include helping them clear their credit report, getting new identification documents, and recovering any money that was stolen. Identity theft lawyers may also help their clients sue the people who stole their identity, if they can be found. Identity issues are more common now than ever before due to the rise in technology. More and more people are becoming victims of identity theft, and it can be a very difficult process to recover from. If you or someone you know has been a victim of identity theft, an experienced attorney can help.
The most common issues handled by Identity Theft law firms?
Most identity theft lawyers near you handle a variety of issues related to identity theft. This can include helping their clients clear their credit report, getting new identification documents, and recovering any money that was stolen. Identity theft lawyers may also help their clients sue the people who stole their identity, if they can be found. Below is a list of 10 most common issues with detailed description:
1. removing fraudulent entries from your credit report
Identity theft can wreak havoc on your credit score and leave you with a bad credit history. If you find that there are fraudulent entries on your credit report, an experienced identity theft lawyer can help you get them removed. This can be a difficult and time-consuming process, but it is important to do in order to restore your good credit standing.
2. getting new identification documents
If your driver’s license, passport, or other identification documents have been stolen, an identity theft lawyer can help you get new ones. This is important in order to prevent the thief from using your information to commit crimes or fraud.
3. recovering stolen money
If you have had money stolen from you as a result of identity theft, an identity theft lawyer can help you recover it. This may involve filing a police report, contacting your bank or credit card company, and taking other legal action.
4. suing the people who stole your identity
If the people who stole your identity can be found, you may be able to sue them. This can be a complicated process, and you will need the assistance of an experienced identity theft lawyer.
5. preventing identity theft in the future
Once you have been a victim of identity theft, it is important to take steps to prevent it from happening again. An identity theft lawyer can help you understand what measures you need to take and can assist you in implementing them.
6. resolving issues with the IRS
Identity theft can lead to problems with the IRS, such as if your tax returns are filed fraudulently in your name. If you are having issues with the IRS as a result of identity theft, an experienced identity theft lawyer in your area can help you resolve them.
7. fixing your credit report
If your credit report has been damaged as a result of identity theft, an identity theft lawyer can help you fix it. This may involve removing fraudulent entries, correcting errors, and taking other legal action.
8. dealing with debt collectors
If you are being harassed by debt collectors as a result of identity theft, an identity theft lawyer can help you stop the harassment and protect your rights.
9. getting a new Social Security number
In some cases, identity theft can be so severe that you may need to get a new Social Security number. An identity theft lawyer can help you with this process and make sure that it is done correctly.
10. resolving issues with your job
Identity theft can also lead to problems at work, such as if someone uses your identity to get a job in your name. If you are having issues at work as a result of identity theft, an experienced lawyer can help you resolve them.
Authorities handling identity theft in the United States
- The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is the primary federal agency that collects complaints about identity theft and works to prevent it. The FTC also works with other agencies and organizations to education the public about how to avoid identity theft and what to do if they become a victim.
- The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is responsible for investigating cases of tax-related identity theft and taking action against those who commit this crime.
- The Social Security Administration (SSA) investigates cases of social security fraud, which can include identity theft.
- The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigates cases of identity theft that involve interstate or foreign commerce.
These are just a few of the agencies that handle identity theft in the United States. If you are a victim of identity theft, it is important to contact the appropriate authorities in order to get help and take action against the person who stole your identity.
Studies and stats related to identity theft in U.S
There are a number of studies and statistics related to identity theft in the United States. Here are a few notable ones:
- A study by Javelin Strategy & Research found that there were 16.7 million victims of identity theft in the United States in 2017, which was an all-time high.
- The same study found that the total cost of identity theft in the United States was $16.8 billion in 2017.
- A study by the Bureau of Justice Statistics found that 3.4% of adults in the United States were victims of identity theft from 2013 to 2014.
- The Federal Trade Commission received nearly 1.4 million complaints about identity theft in 2017, which was up from 1.2 million in 2016.
- A study by Experian found that the average cost of identity theft per victim in the United States was $290 in 2017.
These studies and statistics show that identity theft is a major problem in the United States. If you are a victim of this crime, it is important to get help from an experienced lawyer who can assist you in taking action against the person who stole your identity.
How much does it cost to hire an identity theft lawyer?
The cost of hiring an identity theft lawyer will vary depending on the specific facts of your case. However, you can expect to pay an hourly rate for the lawyer’s time, which will be billed in increments of six minutes. In addition, you may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees and expert witness fees. The most expensive identity theft lawyers can charge upwards of $1,000 per hour. However, there are also less expensive options available, such as flat-fee arrangements or contingency fees. Hiring a low-cost or free lawyer may not be the best option if you have a complex case, so it is important to weigh all of your options before making a decision.
What should you look for in an identity theft lawyer?
When looking for an identity theft lawyer, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, it is important to find a lawyer who has experience handling these types of cases. Second, you should look for a lawyer who is familiar with the specific laws related to identity theft in your state. Finally, you should find a lawyer who you feel comfortable working with and who you can trust to represent your best interests. During a free initial consultation, you can get a better sense of whether a particular lawyer is a good fit for your case.
What are some common identity theft scams?
There are a number of different scams that criminals use to commit identity theft. Some of the most common include phishing scams, skimming scams, and tax refund scams.
- Phishing scams involve criminals posing as legitimate organizations in order to get victims to provide personal information, such as social security numbers or credit card numbers.
- Skimming scams involve criminals using devices to steal credit and debit card information from victims.
- Tax refund scams involve criminals filing false tax returns in order to get victims’ refunds.
These are just a few of the many scams that criminals use to commit identity theft. If you have been a victim of one of these scams, it is important to get help from an experienced lawyer who can assist you in taking legal action.
What are some common signs that you may be a victim of identity theft?
There are a number of signs that you may be a victim of identity theft. For instance, you may receive bills for items you did not purchase or you may receive calls from creditors about late payments you did not make. Additionally, you may see unauthorized charges on your credit card statements or you may find that your credit score has dropped suddenly. If you notice any of these signs, do not hesitate and find the right lawyer.