Orange County Fraud Lawyer 

Fraud is a serious crime, and penalties vary significantly based on the value of the property involved and the nature of the fraud. A fraud conviction can result in consequences including imprisonment, substantial fines, restitution payments to victims, and potential forfeiture of assets.

The consequences of a conviction can also extend beyond the criminal justice system, including long-term impacts on your professional reputation and career opportunities. An Orange County fraud lawyer could launch an independent investigation into the case, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and develop an effective legal defense. Our criminal defense attorney could also represent you in court and argue against the charges to seek the most favorable result in your case.

What Are the Different Types of Fraud Charges and Penalties?

When accused of or charged with fraud, protect your rights by securing legal representation from an experienced attorney in Orange County, FL. Fraud encompasses a range of potentially life-altering charges, including:

• Scheme to defraud or organized fraud: Engaging in a pattern of actions to obtain property by making false promises or misrepresentations
• Credit card fraud: Using another person’s credit card information without permission for purchases
• Identity theft: Using someone’s personal information, such as a Social Security number, without authorization to commit fraud
• Insurance fraud: Making false claims to an insurance company to receive unentitled benefits
• Health care fraud: Billing Medicare, Medicaid, or other health care programs for services not rendered
• Mortgage fraud: Providing false information on a mortgage application to obtain a loan
• Bank fraud: Acting deceptively to obtain money or assets from a financial institution
• Mail fraud: Carrying out deceptive practices using postal services
• Wire fraud: Using electronic communications, such as the internet, for fraudulent schemes
• Securities fraud: Engaging in deceptive practices in financial markets
• Tax fraud: Evading the payment of taxes
• Employment fraud: Using false credentials or identification to obtain jobs for which you lack qualifications
• Bribery: Offering or accepting something of value to influence a decision
• Forgery: Creating a false document with the intent to defraud

Specific types of fraud often have their own tiered penalty structures that can entail mandatory minimum sentences, significant fines, and other legal repercussions. For example, the penalties for organized fraud range from a third-degree felony up to a first-degree felony. A third-degree felony is punishable by up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine. A first-degree felony carries penalties of up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

The crime of wire fraud also could have harsh legal punishments. Federal wire fraud could result in up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine per charge. State penalties for wire fraud vary by the value of the property involved but still range from a first-degree misdemeanor (punishable by up to a year in jail plus fines) to a first-degree felony.

Possible Defenses Against Fraud

An experienced attorney in Orange County could review the prosecutor’s evidence, identify weaknesses in their case, and build a tailored defense strategy against fraud charges. Your legal defense could negotiate for reduced charges or lesser penalties, such as probation instead of jail time for the filed charges. In sensitive fraud cases, negotiating a resolution that avoids a public trial could protect your reputation and career from long-term damage.

Numerous potential defenses could apply to your fraud case, but the right approach will depend on your particular situation. A key element in most fraud cases is the intent to deceive or defraud. If the prosecution fails to prove your specific intent to defraud, the court may dismiss the charges. An effective defense strategy could also focus on demonstrating that the actions were unintentional, a result of negligence, or a mistake, rather than a deliberate act to commit fraud.

Call an Attorney Today for Help With Fraud Charges in Orange County, FL

Securing the services of an Orange County fraud lawyer at the earliest stages of a fraud investigation is crucial to protecting your rights, preventing you from inadvertently incriminating yourself, and building a robust defense. Delaying action until formal charges are filed could severely weaken your position and put you at a significant disadvantage.

Without a lawyer, you are more likely to make costly missteps. The legal system is overwhelming, and you could inadvertently say or do things that others could misconstrue as evidence of guilt. A skilled attorney could ensure that you do not fall into this trap. Call The Umansky Law Firm today to schedule your free case review.