Identity Theft Charges in Tennessee

Nashville Identity Theft Defense Lawyers

Identity theft charges in Tennessee involve allegations that a person knowingly used another individual’s personal or financial identifying information without authorization to obtain money, goods, services, or other benefits. These cases are aggressively prosecuted and often carry felony penalties, even when the alleged financial loss is 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 identity theft allegations can threaten your freedom, finances, and reputation. Our attorneys closely examine how the information was obtained, who had access, and whether the State can truly prove intent beyond a reasonable doubt.

Practice Areas 

What Is Identity Theft Under Tennessee Law?

Identity theft is governed by Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-14-150. Under this statute, a person commits identity theft when they knowingly obtain, possess, buy, sell, or use another person’s personal identifying information without consent, with the intent to obtain money, credit, goods, services, or other benefits.

Personal identifying information can include:

• Names, Social Security numbers, and dates of birth
• Bank account or credit card numbers
• Driver’s license or identification numbers
• Login credentials or financial account access
• Any information used to identify or represent another person

Elements the State Must Prove

To obtain a conviction for identity theft, the State must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that:

• The defendant obtained, possessed, or used identifying information
• The information belonged to another person
• The defendant did not have consent or authorization
• The defendant acted knowingly
• The defendant intended to obtain value, credit, services, or benefits

If intent or lack of authorization cannot be proven, the charge may be subject to dismissal or reduction.

Penalties for Identity Theft in Tennessee

Identity theft is typically charged as a felony in Tennessee, though classification depends on the facts and alleged value involved.

Potential consequences may include:

• Felony classification
• Prison time
• Substantial fines and court costs
• Probation
• Restitution to alleged victims
• A permanent criminal record

Penalties may increase if multiple victims are involved or if the conduct is part of an ongoing scheme.

Common Situations Leading to Identity Theft Charges

Identity theft allegations often arise from:

• Use of another person’s credit or debit card
• Online account access or login disputes
• Family or household financial conflicts
• Employment-related access to customer information
• Shared devices or passwords
• Allegations following audits or financial investigations

Many cases hinge on digital evidence and assumptions about who used the information.

How We Defend Identity Theft Charges

Identity theft cases often depend on intent, authorization, and access. At Freeman & Fuson, defense strategies may include:

These cases frequently involve technical evidence that must be carefully scrutinized

Collateral Consequences of an Identity Theft Conviction

An identity theft conviction can carry severe collateral consequences, including:

• Long-term damage to professional reputation
• Employment and licensing difficulties
• Housing and credit issues
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens
• Civil lawsuits or restitution claims
  

Avoiding a conviction can be critical to protecting your future.

Why Legal Representation Matters in Identity Theft Cases

Identity theft cases often rely on digital records, assumptions, and circumstantial evidence. Early involvement by a criminal defense attorney can help preserve evidence, challenge flawed conclusions, and prevent overcharging.

An attorney can analyze financial records, review electronic evidence, consult experts when necessary, and ensure the State meets its burden of proof.