Identity Theft

Identity Theft

An identity theft attorney can be critical to helping victims restore their credit reports to a proper reflection of their credit history. Perpetrators of identity theft use the information they steal to borrow money that they never intend to pay back in the name of the person whose identity they have stolen. Credit reporting agencies often have no way of distinguishing or identifying this lending as being a result of identity theft, and soon, the victim’s credit report reflects debts and missed payments that were not their fault.

A poor credit history could have detrimental effects on your life. You could see extremely high interest rates or be denied loans you might otherwise have qualified for, even if your low credit score is no fault of your own.

There are means by which these concerns can be addressed and corrected. However, they can be complex and will require proving that identity theft is to blame for the damages. Many victims of identity theft find it beneficial to work with an experienced identity theft attorney to be able to present a strong case, as well as to ensure that the correct procedure is followed. At Shay Legal APC, our experienced attorneys understand what it takes to correct these issues and craft a formidable argument for our clients.

What Does an Identity Theft Lawyer Do?

An identity theft lawyer can be critical throughout the process of trying to restore your credit history and remove fraudulent accounts. Because this process will require proof of identity theft, it often begins with an investigation in which a lawyer gathers evidence and documentation that can help support the claim. For instance, things like police reports, creditor records, identity theft affidavits, and other documentation could all be valuable in presenting the case for identity theft.

Our lawyers can then work through the credit reporting agencies’ dispute processes. This often begins with letters that present the relevant evidence and request an investigation by the credit agencies. We can continue to follow up with these agencies, providing any additional evidence or documentation if requested and ensuring that the issue is addressed promptly.

In many circumstances, working directly with the credit reporting agencies may be enough to resolve the issue. However, there are some circumstances in which it is not sufficient. These cases may require legal action, possibly under the Fair Credit Reporting Act or California’s Consumer Credit Reporting Agencies Act, to pursue a resolution to the issue. In these cases, we will be prepared to make the case again for why these records are a result of identity theft, this time before the court.

FAQs

Q: How Do I Know if My Identity Has Been Stolen?

A: There are a number of different things that could indicate that your identity has been stolen; however, most of them will likely center around financial issues. For instance, transactions in your bank account that you don’t remember authorizing or bills and financial account statements that suddenly cease to come through mail or email could indicate something is wrong.

In particular, though, you may notice issues surrounding credit. Rejections for a loan or line of credit despite a good credit history can indicate identity theft, as can a sudden drop in your credit score. It’s also important to look at your credit report and see if you notice any irregularities.

Q: What Could Happen if My Identity Is Stolen?

A: Identity theft could result in a number of different issues, and one of the most significant may be damage to your credit history. Often, identity thieves could use your identity to take out loans that they have no intention of repaying. This could be costly to your credit history and could destroy your ability to borrow money and use credit.

Q: Are Credit Reporting Companies Required to Remove Information on My Report That Is a Result of Identity Theft?

A: Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, crediting reporting companies are required to remove any records on your history that are the result of identity theft. However, this will require those records to be verified as the product of identity theft. While credit reporting agencies will conduct their own investigation if you dispute a claim, you’ll likely have much greater success if you can provide them with strong and sufficient evidence. Gathering and preparing this kind of evidence is one of several reasons to work with an attorney if you believe that you’ve been a victim of identity theft.

Q: How Should I Choose an Identity Theft Attorney?

A: Correcting the impact of identity theft on your credit history can often be a complex and challenging process. One of the things from which your case can benefit most is often a deep understanding of credit law and related processes. Therefore, it’s advantageous to look for a lawyer with a strong knowledge of the relevant matter, as well as experience in handling these kinds of cases.

An Identity Theft Attorney Can Help Correct Your Credit Report

Identity theft is one of the more frustrating things you can face. Much of your ability to make use of financial tools is dependent upon proving your identity online. Unfortunately, doing so leaves the possibility that others may steal your personal information and use it to make lenders believe they are you. The results can often be disastrous for your credit report, as fraudulent debts, balances, and missed payments lead to a negative credit history.

It is possible to dispute these reports and remove the fraudulent impact of identity theft from your credit history. However, the process can often be arduous and complicated. Credit reporting companies will need to be persuaded that the fraudulent records and activities are, indeed, the result of identity theft.

An identity theft attorney can craft a case on your behalf and prepare to move on to legal action if necessary. At Shay Legal APC, we do whatever we can to pursue corrections to our client’s credit reports that have been damaged by identity theft. Contact us today if you believe identity theft is to blame for fraudulent records on your credit report.