Citrus Park Fraud Attorney
If you were arrested or charged with fraud, help from a knowledgeable attorney is essential. A fraud conviction could lead to hefty fines and restitution, a prison sentence, and restrictions on your rights. It could also impact your housing, employment, credit, and educational opportunities.
A Citrus Park fraud lawyer at Grand Canyon Law Group has the experience and expertise to challenge a prosecutor’s case and present alternative explanations. When facing criminal fraud charges, reach out to our legal professionals for the best chances of success in your case.
For a free legal consultation with a fraud lawyer serving Citrus Park, call 480-400-5555
WHAT IS CRIMINAL FRAUD?
According to Arizona Revised Statutes §13-2310, criminal fraud is knowingly making a false statement to gain a benefit. Criminal fraud usually occurs in a financial context. Making an untrue statement is fraud, as is intentionally failing to reveal significant, relevant information.
TYPES OF FRAUDULENT BEHAVIOR
Fraud often accompanies other criminal charges. Situations that could lead to fraud charges include:
- Providing false information to a bank to get a loan
- Making or passing counterfeit currency
- Submitting false claims to the Medicare, Medicaid, or Worker’s Compensation programs
- Identity theft
- Forgery
- Embezzlement
- Offering bribes or improper benefits to secure a public contract
- Making false statements on a tax return
Almost any situation that involves making a false statement to collect money or receive a benefit could lead to criminal fraud charges in Citrus Park, as our seasoned attorneys can explain.
ELEMENTS OF FRAUD CHARGES
Fraud takes many forms, depending on the circumstances. However, the accused must knowingly make a false statement or material omission. Most fraud charges also require the intent to receive a benefit by making a false statement or omission. A Citrus Park attorney could build a fraud defense around challenging a prosecutor’s proof of knowledge or intent.
Citrus Park Fraud Lawyer Near Me 480-400-5555
FRAUD CHARGES ARE FELONIES
The severity of fraud charges depends on multiple factors. Prosecutors will consider the following when determining how to charge an alleged fraud:
- Value of the benefit the accused allegedly obtained or attempted to obtain through the fraud
- Extent of the loss another suffered due to the fraud
- Whether the fraud involved taxpayer funds
- Whether the accused held a position of trust
- Duration of the fraudulent scheme
FEDERAL FRAUD OFFENSES
A federal prosecutor could bring fraud charges if the scheme involved a federal program like Medicare or if the alleged victims were in different states than the defendant, as is often the case with identity theft schemes. Federal fraud charges are usually felonies but could be misdemeanors in some circumstances.
STATE FRAUD CHARGES IN CITRUS PARK
State fraud charges are felonies. Fraud could be a Class 6 felony if the benefits to the alleged perpetrator were valued at less than $2000. However, the charges could be as severe as a Class 2 felony, potentially leading to a $150,000 fine and a presumptive prison sentence of five years. When the stakes are this high, it is crucial for those accused of fraud to seek legal representation from a nearby attorney.
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PENALTIES FOR FRAUD CONVICTIONS
Sentencing for felony convictions depends on the defendant’s criminal history, the presence of mitigating or aggravating factors, and whether the crime involved a threat of physical harm to another person. Mitigating factors in a fraud case could include a defendant’s age, duress, ties to the community, military service, and other characteristics that demonstrate good character. Aggravating factors might include the victim’s vulnerability, the cruelty of the scheme, whether the offender violated the public trust, and similar factors.
If the judge finds mitigating circumstances, a person charged with Class 2 felony fraud might receive probation rather than incarceration. However, if the value of the illegally obtained benefit exceeds $100,000, a prison sentence is mandatory. If the judge finds aggravating factors, a prison sentence could be as long as 12.5 years for a first offender.
The penalties for a first-time Class 2 felony fraud conviction can range from 4.5 to 23 years in prison, with a presumptive sentence of 9.25 years. If the defendant has two or more prior felony convictions, the range increases to 10.5 to 35 years, with a presumptive sentence of 15.75 years. Those facing felony fraud charges need representation from a skilled Citrus Park lawyer to protect their freedom.
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DEFEND YOURSELF FROM FRAUD CHARGES WITH A CITRUS PARK LAWYER
If you face fraud charges or believe authorities are investigating you for fraud, seek legal representation immediately. A seasoned attorney at Grand Canyon Law Group could protect your rights during an investigation and ensure you receive fair treatment.
With a Citrus Park fraud lawyer on your side, you are better prepared to fight for your future and defend your way of life. Call today to set up a consultation with a member of our team.
Call or text 480-400-5555 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form