California Penal Code 484g PC – Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card
Credit card fraud allegations can escalate quickly in California. What may begin as a disputed transaction, unauthorized purchase, or misunderstanding involving a debit card or credit card can quickly lead to criminal charges under California Penal Code Section 484g.
A conviction can result in jail time, steep fines, restitution orders, probation, and a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, professional licenses, and immigration status.
If you are being investigated or have already been charged, understanding how California law works—and the defenses available to you—is critical.
Your best chance for a positive outcome is to work with an experienced California criminal defense attorney at Cron, Israels & Stark.
To set up a consultation, feel free to call us at (424) 372-3112 or simply fill out the contact form here.
What Is California Penal Code 484g PC?
California Penal Code Section 484g makes it illegal to knowingly use a stolen, forged, expired, revoked, or fraudulently obtained credit card, debit card, account number, or access card to obtain money, goods, services, or anything of value.
Prosecutors generally must prove that:
- You used an access card or card information
- The card was stolen, forged, expired, revoked, or fraudulently obtained
- You knew the card was invalid or unauthorized
- You intended to defraud another person or business
This law applies to both physical cards and digital card information and is commonly called credit card fraud.
What Qualifies as an “Access Card”?
California broadly defines access cards.
This may include:
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- ATM cards
- Gift cards
- Account numbers
- Digital wallet credentials
- Electronic payment account information
Fraud allegations often extend beyond traditional physical cards.
Common Examples of Credit Card Fraud
Charges may arise from:
- Using a stolen credit card
- Using someone else's debit card without permission
- Online purchases with stolen account information
- Using counterfeit cards
- ATM fraud
- Chargeback fraud
- Possess counterfeit items
- Theft of credit card information
- Unauthorized recurring charges
- Using expired or revoked cards knowingly
Misdemeanor vs. Felony Charges
Charges under California Penal Code Section 484g may be filed as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the circumstances.
Factors may include:
- The value of the alleged fraud
- Prior criminal history
- Number of transactions
- Whether identity theft is involved
Some cases may qualify as misdemeanor offenses under California theft thresholds.
Potential Penalties for Credit Card Fraud
A conviction may result in:
- County jail
- State prison (in certain felony cases)
- Probation
- Restitution
- Fines
- Formal probation terms
- Permanent criminal record
Additional penalties may apply in repeat offense cases.
Related California Crimes
Prosecutors may file additional charges, such as:
California Penal Code Section 530.5
Identity theft involving personal financial information.
California Penal Code Section 459.5
Retail theft involving fraudulent transactions.
California Penal Code Section 470
Counterfeit signatures or fraudulent financial documents.
California Penal Code Section 487
Grand theft involves high-value theft allegations.
California Penal Code Section 532
False pretenses and fraud schemes.
Common Defense Strategies
An experienced criminal defense attorney may raise several defenses.
Lack of Intent to Defraud
Mistakes are not always crimes.
Unauthorized Access by Someone Else
You may have been falsely accused.
Insufficient Evidence
Prosecutors must prove intent.
Mistaken Identity
This often arises in online fraud cases.
Illegal Searches
Unlawfully seized financial records may be challenged.
What Happens After an Arrest?
Most cases involve:
- Arrest or investigation
- Formal charges
- Arraignment
- Pretrial hearings
- Negotiations
- Trial if necessary
Long-Term Consequences of a Conviction
A conviction may impact:
- Employment
- Credit
- Professional licenses
- Immigration status
- Housing opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions
Is using someone else's credit card always a felony?
Not always. Some cases may be charged as misdemeanors.
Can online purchases trigger charges?
Yes. Online fraud cases are increasingly common.
What if I didn't know the card was stolen?
Lack of knowledge may be a defense.
Can charges be reduced?
Possibly, depending on the facts.
Should I speak with police?
No. Contact a lawyer first.
Why Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
Fraud cases often involve digital records, surveillance footage, and financial investigations. An experienced defense attorney can challenge weak evidence and protect your future.
Contact a California Credit Card Fraud Defense Lawyer Today
If you are facing charges under California Penal Code Section 484g, immediate legal representation can make a major difference. Contact an experienced California criminal defense attorney today for a confidential consultation.
The team of criminal defense attorneys at Cron, Israels & Stark in Los Angeles is ready to assist you. Reach out to schedule your consultation today!