Fraud is an ongoing issue, costing individuals and organizations a lot of money each year. This catch-all term covers several types of crimes in which deception is used to gain something of value, such as money or services. A fraud conviction carries the potential of significant consequences including prison time and hefty fines.
If you have been accused of committing fraud, it is important to speak with a DeKalb County fraud lawyer who could help you understand your rights and develop a defense strategy to avoid or limit these consequences. A seasoned criminal defense attorney could negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf, seek to have charges reduced or dismissed, and advocate for you in court.
Fraud involves deceiving another person or agency for the purpose of receiving a benefit, such as money or services. Here is a look at some of the most common types of fraud charges:
The use of another person’s personal information without permission.
Creating, altering, or deleting data on a computer system.
The use of a computer to access someone else’s personal information, such as medical, salary, or financial data.
The use of misleading procedures in a business environment.
Writing a check on an account where there are not sufficient funds to cover the expenditure.
Knowingly making a report of a crime to law enforcement that did not actually occur.
Intentionally taking someone’s credit or debit card information.
An experienced fraud attorney in Dekalb County could analyze the specifics of your case and help identify potential defenses.
There is a wide range of potential consequences for fraud charges, depending on the crime and the severity of it. However, these types of crimes often are charged as felonies and carry maximum sentences of 10-15 years in prison as well as thousands of dollars in fines. Those who are convicted may also be ordered to pay restitution and complete other court-ordered actions, including probation and counseling. Regardless of whether the crime is charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, it can appear on your criminal history record and impact your ability to obtain employment, education, or housing.
One of the most important tasks of a DeKalb County fraud attorney is to help their client understand their rights when they’ve been accused of a crime. Another is creating and executing a defense strategy based on the unique details of the case. There are several potential defenses to a fraud charge, including the individual having consent to use someone’s credit card or personal information, lack of intent to deceive others, or even lack of evidence that a crime occurred. A lawyer will also look at how the investigation and arrest took place to ensure that the defendant’s rights were not violated through the process.
In some cases, a defense strategy will involve going to trial, with an attorney presenting evidence to dispute the prosecution’s claim. In other cases, a legal professional will negotiate a plea deal with the prosecutor in order to reduce the penalties that the conviction carries in exchange for a guilty plea.
Fraud is a complex crime with many varieties and potential consequences. There is no “one size fits all” strategy for defending someone against a fraud charge. Instead, the strategy your attorney develops is based on your goals for the outcome and the unique details of your case.
Let a well-practiced Dekalb County fraud lawyer from Robert James Trial Attorneys provide you with a free case evaluation so you can begin understanding the criminal defense process, your rights, and the next steps forward in your case. Contact us today.
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