In moments of panic or misunderstanding, giving false information to law enforcement might seem like a way to avoid trouble. But in Pennsylvania, presenting a fake name, date of birth, or identification card can lead to serious criminal charges, sometimes more severe than the offense you were trying to avoid.
At Worgul, Sarna & Ness, we represent individuals charged with giving false identification across Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania. Our crimes against the public and peace attorneys understand how these cases unfold, what police need to prove, where the state often overreaches, and how a simple mistake can escalate into a lasting criminal record. We approach every case with a practical, assertive defense strategy designed to protect your rights and mitigate long-term consequences.
When a split-second decision leads to criminal charges, we step in quickly and fight to keep your future intact.
What Constitutes Giving False Identification in Pennsylvania?
You do not have to physically hand over a fake ID to face criminal charges in Pennsylvania. Under 18 Pa. C.S. § 4914, it is a crime to knowingly provide false identifying information to law enforcement officers who are acting in the course of their official duties. This includes giving a false name, date of birth, address, or Social Security number either verbally or in writing.
You can be charged even if no harm was caused or if you corrected the mistake shortly afterward. The mere act of knowingly misleading an officer with false personal information is enough to trigger criminal prosecution.
At Worgul, Sarna & Ness, we defend people from all walks of life who have been accused of misrepresenting their identity to police. These charges often arise in stressful situations where a person reacts impulsively out of fear or confusion.
Routine Traffic Stops That Escalate
One of the most common scenarios occurs during a routine traffic stop. You might be pulled over for a minor infraction like speeding or having a broken taillight. If you do not have a valid driver’s license, are driving with a suspended license, or have outstanding fines or warrants, you might give a false name in an effort to avoid further trouble.
Police officers often check identification quickly and thoroughly. Once the false information is discovered, what began as a citation can become a criminal investigation. In these cases, we work to isolate the false identification charge from the rest of the traffic offense and minimize your legal exposure.
Underage Drinking or Fake ID Usage
Many false identification cases involve young people, particularly college students or minors attempting to purchase alcohol, enter nightclubs, or gain access to 21-and-over events. These situations frequently involve the use of another person’s ID or a fabricated driver’s license ordered online.
While it may seem harmless, even one instance can result in criminal charges. We routinely represent students and young adults in these matters and pursue outcomes like deferred adjudication, dismissal, or participation in diversionary programs to avoid a lifelong criminal record.
Immigration Concerns or Unpaid Warrants
If you are an undocumented immigrant or have active warrants, being stopped by police may cause significant fear about the consequences. Some people, fearing detention or deportation, provide a false name or date of birth during questioning.
While the law still applies, the motivations behind these actions are critical in handling the case. Our attorneys work to provide the court with context, humanize our clients, and advocate for non-carceral outcomes that consider the underlying fears and challenges you face.
Police Allegations Without Proof
There are also cases where an officer claims you gave false identification, but there is no hard evidence to support the accusation. Maybe you hesitated to answer or provided information that was later misunderstood. In such cases, it is the prosecution’s burden to prove that you knowingly and intentionally lied.
We thoroughly review police body camera footage, dispatch logs, witness accounts, and all related evidence to challenge the narrative and expose weaknesses in the government’s case.
False identification charges often involve murky details and high stakes. Our legal team breaks down the facts, clarifies what actually occurred, and applies the law to protect your rights and future.
Types of False ID Charges We Defend
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania criminalizes a variety of actions related to the misrepresentation of identity. These charges can range in severity from summary offenses to third-degree misdemeanors and, in more serious situations, felonies.
Your risk level depends on what information was provided, your intent, and whether the falsehood was used to avoid legal accountability or gain some other benefit.
At Worgul, Sarna & Ness, we handle a broad spectrum of these charges, including:
False Identification to Law Enforcement
Statute 18 Pa. C.S. § 4914 applies when a person knowingly gives a law enforcement officer false identifying information while that officer is performing official duties. It could be something as simple as providing a fake name during a pedestrian stop or incorrect birthdate during a traffic stop. Even if the interaction ends without arrest, the officer may still file charges later after verifying the information.
This is classified as a misdemeanor of the third degree, which carries potential penalties of:
- Up to one year in jail
- Fines up to $2,500
- A permanent entry on your criminal record
We scrutinize the circumstances of the police encounter, examine whether your statement was truly false or misunderstood, and build a defense to reduce or dismiss the charge altogether. In many cases, we are able to negotiate non-jail outcomes such as community service or probation for first-time offenders.
Possession or Use of a Fake ID
Statute 18 Pa. C.S. § 6310.3 targets individuals under 21 who possess or use false identification to misrepresent their age. It commonly applies in underage drinking cases, especially those involving bars, concerts, or liquor store purchases. The statute also applies to the manufacturing or alteration of identification cards, which can elevate the seriousness of the offense.
Most of these cases are charged as summary offenses, punishable by:
- A fine of up to $500
- Potential driver’s license suspension
- Possible enrollment in alcohol education or diversion programs
We help young clients, particularly students and minors, avoid permanent consequences from what is often a one-time lapse in judgment. Our attorneys work to qualify eligible clients for Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) or expungement to keep their records clean.
Identity Theft or Forgery Add-Ons
When false identification is used in more serious contexts, such as applying for a job, accessing government benefits, or avoiding arrest by impersonating someone else, the police may add charges like identity theft, forgery, or tampering with public records. These offenses can rise to the level of felonies, carrying significant prison time and long-term consequences.
In these complex cases, we challenge the evidence, question the prosecution’s charging decisions, and work to limit the scope of the case. We also take care to distinguish between the criminal and administrative or immigration consequences when appropriate, especially for clients who are not U.S. citizens.
Whether your case involves a one-time error in judgment or a more serious allegation, our team at Worgul, Sarna & Ness provides a defense rooted in strategy, context, and a commitment to protecting your future.
Consequences of a False ID Conviction
Even if you avoid jail, a conviction for giving false identification can leave a permanent mark on your record and create serious, long-lasting ripple effects in nearly every area of your life. Many people charged with this offense are first-time offenders who made a quick decision under pressure. Unfortunately, the legal system does not always distinguish between malicious intent and momentary panic.
Our experienced criminal defense attorneys do not just focus on the immediate penalty. We fight to prevent a conviction from limiting your future opportunities.
Loss of Employment or Professional Licenses
A conviction for a crime involving dishonesty or deception can make you ineligible for certain jobs, particularly those involving trust, sensitive information, or financial responsibility. Employers in fields such as healthcare, banking, education, security, and law enforcement often conduct thorough background checks. Even a misdemeanor conviction can raise red flags and lead to job loss, demotion, or difficulty obtaining a new position.
If you hold a professional license, such as those for nursing, law, accounting, or teaching, you may be required to report the conviction to a licensing board. This can trigger disciplinary proceedings, license suspension, or revocation.
Immigration Consequences for Non-Citizens
For non-citizens, including lawful permanent residents (green card holders), students on visas, or undocumented individuals, a false ID conviction can result in severe immigration consequences. Depending on the charge, you could be considered inadmissible, denied naturalization, or placed in removal proceedings.
The Department of Homeland Security may interpret false identification offenses as crimes involving moral turpitude, which carry particularly harsh immigration penalties. Our attorneys work closely with immigration counsel when needed to minimize the risk of deportation or denial of future immigration benefits.
Ineligibility for Government Jobs or Security Clearances
Many federal, state, and municipal employers require applicants to pass background checks and obtain security clearances. Any criminal record involving dishonesty or misrepresentation may disqualify you from positions involving public trust, sensitive data access, or law enforcement collaboration.
False identification convictions can also interfere with career opportunities in the military, government contracting, and the transportation or aviation industries.
Housing, Volunteer Work, and College Admissions
Landlords, volunteer organizations, and educational institutions often perform background checks before offering housing, admission, or placements. Even a conviction resulting in no jail time can signal risk or unreliability, leading to lost opportunities or rejection. In some cases, individuals have had scholarships revoked, been removed from student housing, or been denied campus leadership roles due to criminal records.
Additionally, if you are applying to graduate programs, internships, or study abroad opportunities, a conviction can complicate your eligibility or require detailed disclosures.
At Worgul, Sarna & Ness, we take these consequences seriously. Our goal is to help you avoid a conviction altogether, whether through dismissal, diversion, or a carefully negotiated resolution. If conviction cannot be avoided, we advocate for outcomes that reduce long-term harm and protect your record whenever possible.
This is about more than one case: your ability to move forward in life without carrying unnecessary legal baggage. Let us help you protect your name, your future, and your freedom.
Our Process for Defending False Identification Charges in Pittsburgh
Step 1: Case Review & Charge Evaluation
We begin by reviewing the arrest, including bodycam footage, police reports, and any alleged statements. We then evaluate the officer’s legal justification for the stop and detention and examine whether your alleged conduct meets the statute’s elements.
Step 2: Strategic Defense Planning
Not all false identification charges stem from bad intent. We craft your defense around the facts, whether you were confused, misunderstood the officer, or acted out of fear. When appropriate, we push for:
- Charge reductions
- ARD eligibility
- Pretrial diversion
- Suppression of improperly obtained evidence
We keep your goals front and center: minimizing legal exposure, preserving your record, and avoiding jail.
Step 3: Negotiation or Trial
Most false ID cases can be resolved favorably without trial, but we prepare as if one’s coming. If negotiations fail, we fight in court, presenting evidence and cross-examining officers to cast doubt on the prosecution’s narrative.
We’re not afraid to take false ID cases to trial, especially when the police story doesn’t add up.
Why Choose Worgul, Sarna & Ness for a False ID Charge?
False ID charges are often misunderstood, and many clients worry that their entire future hangs in the balance. We bring clarity and strategy to the situation.
People choose us because:
- We’re experienced criminal defense attorneys with a track record of results in Pittsburgh courts
- We offer nonjudgmental representation, especially for first-time offenders
- We understand the collateral consequences of criminal records and how to avoid them
- We know how to negotiate with prosecutors while building a trial-ready defense
- We act fast to protect your rights, secure evidence, and start building leverage
Whether you made a mistake or are facing exaggerated charges, we’ll fight to set the record straight.
Charged with Giving False Identification? Call Us Today
Don’t let one wrong decision define your future. If you’ve been charged with giving false identification in Pittsburgh, Worgul, Sarna & Ness is here to help. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and pursue the best possible outcome.
Call (412) 281-2146 or fill out our online form to schedule your free consultation. We’re ready to defend your name, literally and legally.
