What typically happens with a false identification charge in Maryland?

A false identification charge in Maryland is not something you should take lightly, and depending on other circumstances relating to a false identification arrest, you could be charged with violating federal false documentation laws.

In Maryland it is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 2 years in prison if you are convicted of selling or issuing false identification documents. You cannot create, issue or sell any identification documents or cards that have blank spaces in them to insert information like name, address and birth date that are intended to be used fraudulently. You can also be fined up to $2,000. The two years in prison and $2,000 fine can be charged separately for each card or separate document that is involved.

It is also a misdemeanor in Maryland to have in your possession or use any type of false government identification, or even to use or display a government identification card that belongs to another person. For each card or document violation you can be charged with a misdemeanor, fined up to $500 and imprisoned for up to six months. The types of documents that cannot be falsified and found in your possession or used by you include:

• birth certificate
• drivers license
• marriage license
• a government issued photo identification card
• adoption decree
• alien registration card
• passport
• visa

If the false identification is used in conjunction with a violent crime, or a drug related crime you could easily find yourself facing federal charges which can include a whopping 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

Legislation was passed in the Maryland Senate last year which would have stripped juveniles under the age of 21 of their drivers licenses if they use false identification to purchase alcohol.

Get Legal Help

A false identification charge can have a serious and long lasting impact on your life. Hire a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible in order to protect your rights and plan for a vigorous defense of the charges.