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Possession of Fake ID DEFENDERS of Your Rights. Your Life. Your Future.

ST. PETERSBURG POSSESSION OF A FAKE ID ATTORNEY

If your child has been charged with possessing a fake identification card or driver’s license in Florida, it is important to hire an attorney for your child’s defense. Unauthorized possession of an identification card is considered a felony offense in Florida. Your child may even be penalized as an adult for this offense depending on the child’s age.

Your child’s defense attorney may able to have their unlawful possession charge dropped or reduced, or pursue alternative sentencing like enrollment in one of the state’s juvenile diversion program, which are designed to prevent future offenses and rehabilitate the child.

Juvenile Possession of Fake ID

Melinda Morris of the Morris Law Firm, P.A. can help your child avoid harsh punishments and consequences for their charge of possessing a fake identification card in St. Petersburg, Florida, and the surrounding Tampa Bay areas. Melinda Morris is experienced and knowledgeable with juvenile fake ID possession in Florida, and will make every effort to find the best possible outcome for your child’s particular case. 

Call the Morris Law Firm, P.A. at (727) 592-5885 for a free consultation today.


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What are Florida’s Possession of a Fake ID Laws?

According to Florida Statutes § 322.212, it is unlawful for any person to knowingly have in their possession a stolen, fake, counterfeit, forged, fraudulent or unlawfully issued driver’s license or identification card.

Although this statute applies to any person, juveniles are most often charged with this offense. Also, if a juvenile offender does not have the statutorily required knowledge they are possessing an unlawful identification card or driver’s license, they may be able to use lack of knowledge as a defense to the charges against them.

What are the Penalties for Possession of a Fake ID?

The penalties for a violation of this statute can be severe and can include imprisonment in state prison for five years or less and/or fines up to $5,000.

Other juvenile penalties can include a permanent criminal record, suspension of a lawful driver’s license, probation, community service, detrimental effects on future employment, and a reduction in educational opportunities.


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Possession Defined in Florida

Unlawful possession of an identification card or driver’s license in Florida requires actual or constructive possession. If there is not sufficient evidence that your child had possession of the driver’s license or identification card, then the charge against your child could be dismissed.

In order for someone to have actual possession in Florida, they have to have control over the ID card or driver’s license, or it has to be on their actual body. For example, they have to have the ID card or driver’s license in their pocket or purse.

Constructive possession is often harder for the state prosecutor to prove, and requires three elements in Florida. These include:

  • The identification card or driver’s license was in the presence of the juvenile charged with the offense,
  • They knew the driver’s license or ID card was in their presence, and
  • They knew the driver’s license or ID card was unlawful or fake.

For example, if the juvenile had the ID in the glove compartment of their car, they knew it was there, and they knew the ID was fake, they could be charged with constructively possessing the identification card.


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Morris Law Firm, P.A. | Juvenile Unlawful ID Possession Defense Attorney

Contact the Morris Law Firm, P.A. today for a consultation about your child’s alleged possession of a fake ID in Pinellas County, Florida, and the surrounding areas of Tampa Bay, including St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Hillsborough, Pasco, Manatee and Sarasota County. Melinda Morris is experienced in juvenile defense, and will make every effort to identify any mitigating factors or applicable defenses to help your child avoid severe repercussions.

Contact the Morris Law Firm, P.A. at (727) 592-5885 for a consultation about your child’s juvenile crime in Pinellas County.

Meet The Attorneys Melinda Morris & Seth Shapiro

Why Choose Our Law Firm?

See the Difference Our Service Provides
  • FORMER STATE PROSECUTOR
    Melinda Morris is a former prosecutor and has handled thousands of criminal cases from investigation through sentencing enabling us to identify weaknesses in the State’s case against you.
  • STRATEGICALLY AGGRESSIVE
    We never settle for the easiest outcome or the typical result. We know how to negotiate with the State Attorney and we will work to get you the best possible outcome.
  • TRUSTED & EXPERIENCED
    Melinda Morris has practiced criminal law for over 20 years. Our clients trust advice that comes from experience in nearly every type of criminal case.
  • PERSONAL ATTENTION
    We will know every client’s story because we will take the time to listen and understand. You will work with your attorney one-on-one at every stage of the process.
  • PROMPT COMMUNICATION
    You will have the cell phone number of your attorney. Your attorney will directly return your call, email, or text to answer your pressing questions.
  • SAME DAY REPRESENTATION
    The government is wasting no time in trying to prove your guilt, a proactive defense is imperative. Prompt and decisive action from your defense attorney is of critical importance.

CLient Testimonials

Hear From Real People We've Helped

At Morris Law Firm, P.A., your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

    "Look no further than Morris Law"
    Seth Shapiro is the most professional, courteous, caring attorneys I’ve dealt with in all of my 70 years. He did a fabulous job representing me defending me and getting charges dropped. I couldn’t have dreamed of better counsel.
    - Stephen on AVVO
    "100% satisfied with Morris Law Group."
    100% satisfied with Morris law group. Melinda was able to resolve my legal issues with no additional expenses other than my original retainer. I highly recommend this firm for professional and competent representation.
    - Peter R. on Yelp
    "Best legal representation"
    If you want the best legal representation, look no further than Morris law firm. Melinda reassured me from the very first time we spoke over the phone. She is very professional and keeps you updated on the progress of your case. I really liked that I didn’t have to reach out to her Everything was smooth, straightforward and she put my mind at ease. You’ll be in good hands with her. Thank you Melinda
    - Hassan on Google
    "Thanks to The Morris Law Firm"
    Mr.Shapiro helped my case by looking at the police body cam diligently which supported my testimony . He presented evidence to the prosecutor .I hired Seth Shapiro to defend me after a domestic battery charge in which I was wrongfully accused and arrested. My case was dismissed thankfully. .Couldn't have asked for a better outcome. This was an extreme difficult time for me. Seth Shapiro was knowledgeable and compassionate in my case. He followed up with my concerns. I would highly recommend this firm.
    - Melody Z.
    "Goes above and beyond"
    Melinda has represented me on numerous cases and the outcome has always been great. Melinda goes above and beyond to defend your rights and get you the best possible outcome. I highly recommend hiring her.
    - Shasta on Google
    "They closed my case in a very short terms, for what I'm very grateful."
    Morris Law Firm is a very professional and responsive. They closed my case in a very short terms, for what I'm very grateful. Strongly recommend them especially Seth Shapiro. He decreased my case from felony to misdemeanor in short terms and during 6 months my case was totally closed.
    - Elina P. on Google