Wisconsin Fake ID Front And Back: The Risks and Consequences of Using a Counterfeit ID

It’s no secret that young people often desire to bypass the strict 21-year age requirement on alcohol consumption. However, purchasing alcohol illegally has become more difficult with the implementation of strict security measures in the form of ID scanning machines and increased scrutiny in many establishments. This has resulted in a significant rise in the demand for fake IDs, and it is not uncommon for university students to use fake IDs when attempting to purchase alcohol or gain entry to clubs and bars.

The production and possession of fake IDs are considered criminal offenses in most states, and Wisconsin is no exception. But unfortunately, the legal consequences of getting caught with a fake ID can be dire, as penalties can include fines, suspension of driving privileges, and even imprisonment in severe instances.

So whether it’s your first time buying a fake ID or you’ve been using one for a while, it’s essential to know the risks and consequences of being caught with one. To help you understand the implications of using a fake ID, we will discuss the penalties, how to spot a fake ID in Wisconsin, and what steps to take if you’re arrested for using one.

Penalties for Using a Fake ID in Wisconsin:

In Wisconsin, it’s illegal to possess, create, purchase, or use a fake ID that misrepresents the age of the user. The state government holds underage drivers accountable for having fake or altered IDs under the age of 21.

The severity of the penalties that come with fake ID use in Wisconsin depends on the specific circumstances surrounding the offense. For instance, penalties could include:

– A fine of up to $1,000
– Suspension or revocation of your driver’s license for up to six months
– Community service
– Attending an educational course about the dangers of alcohol and drug use
– Probation
– Jail time for up to 90 days

Additionally, if you use a fake ID to obtain alcohol or gain illegal access to a bar, you could also face penalties for violating the Wisconsin alcohol laws; this could include having your drinking permit revoked.

It’s worth noting that the penalties you may face for using a fake ID will depend on the specific circumstances surrounding your offense. As such, it is best to speak with a criminal defense lawyer if you’re facing criminal charges.

The Consequences of a Criminal Record:

Getting caught with a fake ID has long-term consequences that extend far beyond the penalties imposed by the Wisconsin government. The criminal record that comes with a fake ID conviction can impact your future opportunities, even after you’ve served your sentence.

For instance, having a record could disqualify you from getting accepted into college or landing a job in certain industries, such as education or law enforcement.

Furthermore, having a criminal record can also affect your ability to travel outside of the United States. This can be particularly problematic when planning vacations or going on school-sponsored trips that require leaving the country.

How to Spot a Fake ID in Wisconsin:

Businesses, especially bars and clubs, are increasingly vigilant about checking IDs. Wisconsin has strict laws when it comes to the sale and consumption of alcohol, and establishments face severe consequences ranging from fines to possible loss of their liquor or business license for serving minors. Thus, it’s essential to know what to look for when verifying IDs at the door, particularly when it comes to fake IDs.

Here are some red flags to look for when trying to identify a fake ID in Wisconsin:

1. Lack of Holograms:

The Wisconsin driver’s license has several holograms that are challenging to counterfeit accurately. If the ID presented to you is missing or has incorrect holograms, like the state seal or flag, it might be a fake.

2. Card Thickness:

Real Wisconsin driver’s licenses are on a PVC material with a thickness of 0.76 millimeters. If the card presented to you is thicker or feels flimsy, it could be a fake.

3. Faded or Poor Quality Pictures:

The Department of Transportation (DOT) in Wisconsin issues the state’s driver licenses, and they have strict guidelines when it comes to taking photos for driver’s licenses. If the picture on the ID you’re verifying appears pixelated or faded, or it doesn’t match the person presenting it, then it could be a fake ID.

4. Mismatched Information:

If the birth date or other critical information about the person presenting the ID doesn’t add up or simply appears off, it could be a fake.

5. Errors and Typos:

Wisconsin driver licenses have meticulous details, and any errors or typos on the presented ID could indicate a fake.

What to Do if You’re Arrested With a Fake ID in Wisconsin:

The consequences of getting caught with a fake ID in Wisconsin can be severe, even for first-time offenders. If you’re arrested while engaging in an activity using a fake ID, you will be charged with a misdemeanor or felony offense.

First and foremost, it’s critical to stay calm and cooperate with law enforcement. This will help avoid escalating the situation and may work to reduce any problems that might arise during or after your arrest.

After your arrest, your next step should be to seek the counsel of an experienced criminal defense attorney. Reach out to a Wisconsin criminal defense attorney with experience defending people accused of fake ID crimes. They can help you with the legal procedures on bail, argue for reduced charges or to have charges dropped, and even design a plea deal that works in your favor based on the strength of the evidence against you.

In Conclusion:

It is illegal to use a fake ID in Wisconsin, and those caught engaging in illegal activities with such identification face severe legal consequences. To avoid problems, it is essential to focus on the risks and consequences that come with using a fake ID.

While being caught using a fake ID can be stressful, seeking the counsel of an experienced criminal defense lawyer can help mitigate the consequences of the arrest. Additionally, businesses should apply stringent measures to identify fake IDs and protect themselves from potential legal consequences.