Defense of Computer Crimes and Internet Fraud in Louisiana
If you are under investigation for or have been arrested on charges of any type of computer crime, it is important to hire an attorney who has experience defending clients in the federal criminal system. Of equal importance are other qualities of the lawyer: Has he handled computer crimes cases before? Is criminal defense a sideline practice or his primary focus? Can he demonstrate a pattern of success in his career as a defense lawyer?
A Louisiana lawyer who meets these criteria is J. Kevin Stockstill of Stockstill & Webre Trial Lawyers LLC in Lafayette. A veteran criminal defense lawyer, Mr. Stockstill makes criminal defense work the primary focus of his practice. Contact us to schedule a confidential consultation.
Internet Crimes Are Prosecuted Under Federal Law
Crimes committed using a computer and the Internet are usually charged and prosecuted under federal law. This is possible because using the Internet to commit a crime is a form of using the telephone to commit a crime, which has long been held to be a violation of federal law. Charges pertaining to alleged computer crimes committed may involve:
- Internet fraud
- Credit card theft
- Identity theft
- ebay or PayPal fraud
The practical importance of this distinction is that any person accused of any type of computer crime and prosecuted in the federal criminal justice system usually faces harsher penalties — as well as being caught up in a justice system that is distinctly different from the Louisiana state system.
We Work With Computer Experts to Build Your Defense
The key to building a strong defense in computer and fraud crimes cases often lies in the computer itself — in the records of transactions and usage. Sentences for possession or distribution of child pornography often depend on the number of images in question — so we make a thorough examination of the records to make sure the number of images is accurate.
Intent and identity are also important questions in computer crimes cases. Our computer experts help us find out whether there was joint access to the computer in question, and whether the record of usage supports an argument for unintentional possession of illegal material.
Early Legal Advice Can Make All the Difference
No matter what type of computer-related crime you are charged with, it is important to seek early legal advice as soon as possible. Your lawyer will serve as your spokesperson with investigators, and we can begin working with the equipment in question to build your defense.
At the Stockstill & Webre, our only goal is to protect our clients from a judgment of legal guilt. Our interest lies in protecting our clients' constitutional rights — we provide nonjudgmental and aggressive defense for all our clients, no matter the crime.
Get More Information ● Make an Appointment
For a confidential consultation with criminal defense attorney J. Kevin Stockstill, contact us. We are available to return urgent telephone calls 24 hours daily. General information about criminal law is available via our Criminal Defense FAQ. You can also download Mr. Stockstill's free report, "9 Mistakes People Make When They Are Charged With a Crime."
