Cybercrimes Lawyer in West Palm Beach
Smartphones, tablets, and computers have changed the world in numerous ways. Now, you can get in touch with a friend with a few taps of a keypad, just as you can conduct business around the globe without leaving home. While technology has improved many lives, it also created a new avenue for illegal activity to take place. Unfortunately, the law in Florida casts a wide net, sometimes entrapping people or arresting people who made a mistake instead of committing an intentional act.
With over 34 years of experience, Ronald S. Chapman was in practice during the early days of prosecuting and defending cybercrimes. He understands how the state approaches these charges and what you need to mount an aggressive defense. Thus, contact our West Palm Beach cybercrimes defense lawyer today to develop a legal strategy.
Crimes Against Intellectual Property
If you have been charged with a cybercrime against intellectual property, the state is accusing you of intentionally destroying computers, networks, or data or stealing trade secrets. While this is typically done on a large scale, that is not always the case.
It is important to note that the state must prove that you did so intentionally to secure a conviction. Thus, if you accidentally infected a network with a virus, your attorney can argue that you never had the intention of taking such action.
These crimes are charged as second and third-degree felonies, and penalties include fines and prison time. Thus, you need to mount a defense to protect your rights and maintain your freedom. First, contact a West Palm Beach cybercrimes lawyer for assistance. Then your attorney can begin building your defense.
Crimes Against Computer Users
Most cybercrimes against computer users are charged as third-degree felonies, although the prosecutor can increase it to a second or first-degree felony if certain conditions are met.
First, the state can charge you with a third-degree felony for knowingly and willingly accessing a system or computer without authorization. Disrupting or interrupting data transmission and other offenses are also charged as third-degree felonies.
The charges are more serious if you allegedly caused more than $5,000 in damage or intended to commit fraud. Additionally, you will receive enhanced charges for interrupting government operations or public communications.
Finally, crimes against computer users that endanger lives or interfere with medical treatment are first-degree felonies.
The state might have a head start in building its case, but you can catch up quickly with help from a cybercrimes defense lawyer in West Palm Beach. Contact our firm today to set up a consultation.
Will You Have To Pay Restitution If Convicted?
The prosecution can request that the defendant pay restitution during the trial’s sentencing phase. This is not the same as paying damages in a civil personal injury suit. Instead, restitution is based on actual losses, although it can include collateral expenses, such as counseling fees. Your cybercrimes lawyer in West Palm Beach will review the financial evidence ahead of time. Then, if your attorney discovers a discrepancy, he can raise the issue in court.
Potential Defenses
Your West Palm Beach cybercrimes lawyer will discuss the facts of your case with you and review the evidence to determine the right defense strategy. For instance, the attorney might discover you were an authorized user or did not intend to cause harm. The lawyer might also uncover evidence showing that you are not guilty. The more time you give your attorney to work on your case, the better your defense will be, so start the process today.