With most of the world’s information now stored on computers, including trade secrets, intellectual property, and public records, the Florida state legislature has passed laws to protect that information. Offenses against intellectual property in Florida means willfully, knowingly and without authorization taking, changing or destroying information on a computer or a network. A Miami offenses against intellectual property criminal defense attorney can help you understand how this applies to your own case.

An offense against intellectual property is a felony of the third degree, punishable by up to five years in prison for each time the computer or network is accessed. It is not duplicitous or double jeopardy to charge multiple counts for multiple access dates or points for the same series of events. If prosecutors believe the intent was to commit a scheme to defraud victims or obtain property, the offense is a second-degree felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison. These are very serious charges and you should always fight them with the help of an experienced Fort Lauderdale offenses against intellectual property criminal defense lawyer.

Cyber crime (computer crime) is an evolving area of the law. As technology grows, so does the law and the manner in which the legal community interprets technology. Oftentimes, these charges stem from misunderstandings, whereby people believe they are authorized to access certain documents for their jobs. Only later do they discover that they are faced with criminal charges. It is very important to understand your employer’s computer policies and procedures before you begin to use the system. If you are not sure whether you can access a certain file or network, ask your supervisor before doing so, and do it in writing or via email.

David S. Seltzer is a South Florida offenses against intellectual property criminal defense lawyer and a Miami cyber crimes criminal defense attorney. Don’t delay; let an experienced former CYBER CRIME prosecutor help protect your good name and reputation. You can reach me 24 hours a day and seven days a week to set up a free, confidential consultation and begin protecting your legal rights. Call today or contact me online for a FREE, CONFIDENTIAL CONSULTATION.

For more information, see Florida Statute 815.04: Offenses against intellectual property; public records exemption.