Expert: Robin Sexton - 10/31/2009

Question
I have two sisters that have identical SS#'s except for one number. One sister in Michigan, one in Ohio. The one in Ohio, was pulled over for running a red light. She told the officer she didn't have her license on her and then gave my sisters old (she is now married) name and SS#. But, my sister in Michigan just received a letter from Ohio saying her license was suspended until 2012. So, that is how we all found out what my sister in Ohio did. Now, what will happen to my sister that lied since she is going to tell the truth now.

Answer
Tina,


Sorry for the delay in responding to your questions.  Ohio will have different laws and policies but it won't vary much from Michigan.  Obviously she will be held responsible for the traffic offense.  Additional charges for the false name will probably also be filed.  If she has no prior history it will probably just be fines and possibly probation.  Obviously I can't guarantee this but unfortunately lying to cops just isn't that serious.  One additional thought is that Ohio could look at this as a type of Identity theft which would up the seriousness of the charge.  Your sister may be well advised to discuss this with an attorney.  The question is not so much of the charge but the affect that it could have on her record which she needs to protect.


hope this helps and good luck


robin