Yes. If you get caught with a fake driver’s license in Las Vegas, you could end up in jail. Nevada enforces strict penalties for ID offenses, including fines, community service, and possible imprisonment.
The severity of the punishment often depends on how the person uses the fake ID and other circumstances surrounding the case. Many charges focus on an underage person allegedly using a fake ID to purchase alcohol or buy cigarettes, for example.
If you face fake ID charges in Las Vegas, our experienced criminal defense lawyers are ready to defend your rights and work toward reducing penalties or even getting the charges dropped.
What Is Considered a Fake ID in Nevada?
In Nevada, a fake ID is any identifying document that is forged, altered, or produced to misrepresent the bearer’s identity or age. That includes a Nevada driver’s license, another state or country’s driver’s license, a state identification card, a fake military ID, fake naturalization papers, or any altered identification document.
Nevada law prohibits possessing, selling, or transferring any document or personal identifying information to establish false status or identity. Notably, Nevada’s definition of a fake ID is broad, encompassing not just wholly fabricated IDs but also forms of personal identification that have been altered in any significant way for fraudulent purposes. An example would be a doctored driver’s license demonstrating a false age.
Penalties for Using Fake IDs in Nevada
The penalties for using a fake ID are severe in Nevada. Anyone caught making, possessing, or using a fake ID for deception can face criminal charges under Nevada fake ID laws. The severity of these charges depends on the specific circumstances and the intent behind using the fake ID.
Using a fake ID is usually charged as a misdemeanor for a first offense. That can result in penalties like fines, community service, and potentially jail time. However, if the fake ID is used for more serious offenses like fraud, identity theft, or selling fake IDs, the charges can escalate to a felony, with potentially more severe consequences.
Additionally, Nevada law imposes penalties specifically for offenses involving driver’s licenses. Under this statute, if someone uses a fake driver’s license, they can face driver’s license suspension or revocation on top of the standard criminal penalties.
What Should You Do If Charged with Possession of a Fake ID?
If you’re charged with possession of a fake ID in Nevada, you can take immediate steps to protect your rights. Here’s what you should do:
- Contact our knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys as soon as possible.
- Be honest with your attorney about all aspects of the incident.
- Avoid any further legal trouble or activities that might affect your case.
- Gather all relevant documents, including the allegedly fake ID.
- Make a detailed account of the events leading to your charge.
- Inform your attorney about any previous criminal history.
- Refrain from discussing your case on social media or with friends.
- Attend all scheduled court appearances without fail.
- Follow your attorney’s advice strictly and ask questions if you’re unsure.
- Consider any plea options carefully under your attorney’s guidance.
How Our Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help You
If you’re in trouble for a fake license in Las Vegas, don’t hesitate to contact Adras & Altig, Attorneys at Law. We offer a free consultation to help you understand your situation better and explore your legal options. Remember, the right legal support can make a big difference in your case.
Contact us today to discuss how we can help with your fake ID charge in Las Vegas.