False Indentification
In Texas, there is a set of laws in place regarding the use of false identification. If a minor falsely declares that he or she is 21 years of age or older, or provides an officer with a fake ID, they can be charged with False Identification. Providing false identification is considered a misdemeanor in the State of Texas, but the charges can have long term consequences. These charges typically range from a class C misdemeanor to a class B misdemeanor.
Texas False Identification – Penalties
Charge: Displaying, or having in one’s possession a driver’s license or a certificate that the person knows is fictitious or has been altered.
Classification: Class B misdemeanor
Penalty: No more than 180 days in county jail and/or a fine not to exceed $2,000
Charge: A person under the age of 21 years commits an offense if the person possesses, with the intent to represent that the person is 21 years of age or older, a document that is deceptively similar to a driver’s license or a personal identification certificate unless the document displays the statement “NOT A GOVERNMENT DOCUMENT” diagonally printed clearly and indelibly on both the front and back of the document in solid red capital letters at least one-fourth inch in height.
Classification: Class C misdemeanor
Penalty: Fine not to exceed $500
COURSES OF ACTION FOR TEXAS FALSE IDENTIFICATION CHARGES
It is possible, in many cases, to receive a deferred adjudication. With this option, you may be put on a probationary period for 6 months. If there are no False Identification charges or other problems with the law during this period, the charges against you will be dismissed. We have had success achieving this for many of our clients. This is often the best option, since it keeps the charge from permanently appearing as a conviction on your criminal record. Please contact us today to discuss your False Identification charge. We can go over you case with you, offer suggestions and help, and explain what we can do in court to get you the best possible result.
FREE CONSULTATION ON TEXAS FALSE IDENTIFICATION CASES
Don't face the judicial system alone. Having an attorney on your side can make a world of difference. Please contact us today to find out what we can do for you.
Law Offices of Ronald A. Ramos – False Identification Defense
San Antonio, TX: (210) 308-8811
Laws Regarding False Identification in Texas
Texas Transportation Code 521.451
(a)Possession / Use of Altered Driver License (a) A person commits an offense if they:• show or posses a driver license or certificate that they know to be fake or altered• show or represent as their own a driver license not issued to them
Texas Transportation Code 521.453
(a)Possession of Fake Driver License (a) a minor commits an offense if they posses, with the intent to represent that they are 21 years of age or older, a deceptively similar driver license or ID certificate UNLESS the license displays the statement “NOT A GOVERNMENT DOCUMENT” printed in 1/4" solid red capital letters diagonally on both sides.xx
(b) “deceptively similar” means a reasonable person would assume that the fake license presented was genuine.
Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code 106.07
Misrepresentation of Age by a Minor A minor commits an offense if they falsely represent themselves as being 21 or older to a person selling or serving alcoholic beverages.