Credit and Debit Card Fraud Charges in Tennessee

Nashville Credit Card Fraud Defense Lawyers

Credit and debit card fraud charges in Tennessee involve allegations that a person used, possessed, or attempted to use another person’s card or card information without authorization. These cases are aggressively prosecuted and often charged as felonies, even when the dollar amounts involved are relatively small.

Many identity theft cases arise from employment disputes, family conflicts, online activity, or allegations involving shared accounts or devices. In other situations, charges are filed based on assumptions drawn from digital records or financial transactions without clear proof of who actually used the information.

At Freeman & Fuson, we understand that financial fraud allegations can threaten your freedom, finances, and professional reputation. Our attorneys carefully examine the transactions, access history, and the State’s theory to build a defense focused on protecting your future.

Practice Areas 

What Is Credit or Debit Card Fraud Under Tennessee Law?

Credit and debit card fraud is governed by Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-14-118. Under this statute, a person commits an offense when they knowingly use, possess, or transfer a credit or debit card, or card information, without the cardholder’s consent or beyond the scope of authorization.

The statute applies whether the card is physical or digital and covers:

• Unauthorized purchases or withdrawals
• Use of card numbers without the physical card
• Use of expired, revoked, or canceled cards
• Exceeding authorized limits or purposes
  

Elements the State Must Prove

To secure a conviction for credit or debit card fraud, the State must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that:

• The defendant used or possessed a credit or debit card or card information
• The card or information belonged to another person
• The defendant did not have consent or exceeded authorization
• The defendant acted knowingly
• The defendant intended to obtain goods, services, or value
  

If intent or lack of authorization cannot be proven, the charge may be reduced or dismissed.

Penalties for Credit and Debit Card Fraud in Tennessee

Credit and debit card fraud may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the value involved and the circumstances of the case.

Potential consequences may include:

• Misdemeanor or felony classification
• Jail or prison time
• Fines and court costs
• Probation
• Restitution to alleged victims
• A permanent criminal record
  

Penalties often increase when multiple transactions or victims are involved.

Common Situations Leading to Credit Card Fraud Charges

Credit or debit card fraud allegations often arise from:

• Shared household or family card use disputes
• Employment-related access to card information
• Online or e-commerce transactions
• Use of stored card information on digital platforms
• Allegations following audits or bank investigations
  

Many cases hinge on whether authorization existed or was exceeded.

How We Defend Credit and Debit Card Fraud Charges

Defending card fraud cases requires careful examination of authorization and intent. At Freeman & Fuson, defense strategies may include:

These cases often depend on detailed financial and electronic evidence.

Collateral Consequences of a Card Fraud Conviction

A conviction for credit or debit card fraud can lead to serious long-term consequences, including:

• Damage to professional reputation
• Employment and licensing difficulties
• Housing and credit problems
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens
• Civil liability or restitution claims
  

Avoiding a conviction can be critical to protecting your future.

Why Legal Representation Matters in Card Fraud Cases

Credit and debit card fraud cases often rely on financial records and assumptions about access. Early involvement by a criminal defense attorney can help challenge overbroad interpretations and prevent minor allegations from escalating into felony convictions.

An attorney can analyze transaction data, consult experts if needed, and hold the State to its burden of proof.