Orange County Internet Crime Attorney

Please note that the Law Office of Michael Guisti is a Criminal Defense Firm and we do not represent Victims of Fraud. We represent those who have been arrested for or charged with a Fraud Crime.

Charged With an Internet Crime?

Only two decades ago, the idea of "internet crime" was almost science fiction. But today, ordinary people are charged with online crimes on a regular basis. The Internet has become much easier to use and more accessible. You no longer have to be a programmer of unparalleled skill or a hacker to break the law with your Mac or PC. With the click of a mouse, just about anyone can land in serious legal trouble.

So, if you have been accused or arrested for an internet crime, it is critical that you hire an attorney as soon as possible. You need an attorney able to provide relentless and aggressive representation. Since 1999, Attorney Michael L. Guisti has been on the cutting edge of online legal defense. If you have been accused of an internet crime in Orange County, don’t wait another moment. Contact Law Office of Michael L. Guisti today at (714) 530-9690 or toll-free at (888) 478-8999 to schedule a free consultation.

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What Types of Online Crimes Do You Represent?

The terms "internet crime" or "cybercrime" cover any offense that may happen online. Typically, internet crime charges are filed against individuals suspected of accessing a computer or network in order to alter, delete, copy, or change digital information. This can include everything from driving records to credit card information to test results. But, for the prosecution to land a conviction against you, they will need to demonstrate beyond a reasonable doubt that you utilized the internet to access another person’s digital information, finances, or property without their permission to steal, change, or delete it.

This category can also cover crimes that occur solely through the internet, such as hacking, or traditional crimes that are committed through the internet, such as cyberstalking or online harassment. In general, any criminal act that occurs online through a computer or smartphone can lead to a charge of an internet crime.

The vast majority of internet crimes involve some form of fraud. There is a massive amount of private data stored online, from credit card information to social security numbers to personal photos and videos. Many criminals utilize phishing schemes to gain access to user’s data and utilize it to make financial transactions. Because these forms of fraud can be a federal offense, you may face charges at a federal level and could be investigated by various federal agencies.

In California, the most common types of internet crimes include:

• Fraud
• Hacking
• Identity theft
• Online bullying
• Online solicitation of a minor
• Distribution of revenge porn
• Possession or distribution of child pornography
• Unlawful contact with a minor
• Cyberstalking
• Posting Harmful Information on the Internet

Keep in mind that any one of the above charges can result in serious fines and jail time. Depending on the type of crime, you may be required to register as a sex offender in the State of California if convicted. You need to get dedicated and resourceful legal representation as soon as possible, especially if you are being investigated.

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State and Federal Charges

While the law may have been slow at first to catch up to the spread of the internet and online networks, there are now several laws that protect the rights of users and consumers in the digital realm. In addition, both state and federal officials are aware of the various ways that criminals use the internet to commit crimes and are constantly monitoring online traffic. This means that not only could you be facing allegations in the State of California, but you may also be looking at federal charges as well if you are investigated by the Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation, or another federal agency. This can range from violations of copyright laws to fraudulent wire transfers to the distribution of child pornography through the internet.

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Defending Your Rights Today

Beating both state and federal charges can be next to impossible without the aid of a skilled trial attorney. Internet crimes are complex, each with their own legal definition, penalties, and type of evidence. Bringing your case as early as possible to an attorney can be key to launching a defense strategy. Oftentimes, investigators will confiscate your computers, cell phone, and digital records to build their case against you. This can lead to serious violations of your personal data and privacy if you do not have a lawyer advocating on your behalf.

While your defense will rely on the specific cybercrime you are being charged with, common defenses we can utilize include:

• Your actions did not meet the legal definition of the specific crime.
• You legally owned the data, information, network, or computer you accessed.
• You had the legal permission of an owner when you accessed their computer or network.
• It is a case of mistaken identity, and you were wrongfully accused.

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On Your Side, Every Step of the Way

You have the right to an attorney. You have the right to defend yourself in a court of law. No matter how new the technologies, no matter how recent the laws may have come into existence, you still have the right to fight your charges. That is where we come in. Law Office of Michael L. Guisti is dedicated to your legal rights. While the prosecution may believe they have an open and shut case, we will prove otherwise. The district attorney has already started collecting evidence against you, so it is imperative that you contact an Orange County criminal defense lawyer immediately to protect your rights. Pick up the phone and call our office at (714) 530-9690 or toll-free at (888) 478-8999.

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Additional Information

• When Online Messages Violate the Law