Using a False ID in Nevada

Defense for Fake ID Usage in Las Vegas

It's a common misconception that prostitution is legal in the state of Nevada. Prostitution is only legalized in licensed brothels; however, that doesn't change the fact that the age old business is busier than ever in Clark County. Law enforcement takes exhaustive measures to crack down on prostitution by inserting undercover cops to pose as "Johns" in order to reel in unsuspecting prostitutes and their pimps. Although their methods sound foolproof, in a court of law they are not. When it comes down to prosecution the burden of proof is on the police. Often times, it's difficult to prove that a crime was really being committed. In cases where the police are lacking sufficient evidence to secure a conviction, they will slap the alleged prostitute with another criminal charge if they can. If you are in legal trouble, a Las Vegas criminal defense attorney can help you fight your criminal charges.

False IDs & Suspected Prostitution

The police may be convinced that a young girl is on a casino premises to solicit prostitution; however, they may have difficulty proving it. Just because she is dressed provocatively and with an older man doesn't prove anything. She could easily be on a date with the older man, and as long as she is above 18, there isn't much the police can do to argue the situation. The police may still be convinced she is a prostitute; however, due to the fact that they lack sufficient evidence to charge with prostitution, they may attempt to find something else to charge her with. Subsequently, a police officer asks to see her ID since she is on a casino floor. When he discovers that she is using a false ID and is in fact under 21, then she can be charged with the criminal offense of using false identification.

Using a False ID: Crime & Punishment in Las Vegas

In the state of Nevada, it is against the law for a person to possess or sell a false ID whether their purpose is to purchase alcohol, or to gamble when they're underage, or to write checks or open a bank account, or for any other fraudulent purpose. In Las Vegas, false IDs are frequently used by underage prostitutes to gain access to casino gambling floors, nightclubs and bars so they can conduct their business. How the offender is prosecuted will depend upon the circumstances of the case.

If the person is using the false ID for the sole purpose of appearing old enough to drink alcohol or gamble, or to purchase cigarettes, then it's prosecuted as a misdemeanor offense carrying up to six months in jail and/or up to $1,000 in fines. On the other hand, if the person possesses a false ID for the purpose of establishing a false identification, then it's categorized as a Class E felony, which is penalized by one to four years in prison in the worst case scenario.

If you are being charged with possessing a false ID, then it would be in your best interests to contact the Brown Law Offices right away. There are specific defenses that may be able to work on your behalf and possibly get your charges dismissed. Such defenses may include that you had no intention of tricking anyone, or perhaps you never intended to use the ID. Or, perhaps the police performed an illegal search by not establishing probable cause ahead of time. If we can build a convincing argument, you may be able to walk away from your charges and avoid a criminal conviction. We urge you to contact us today to find out how we can help you!