Federal Fraud Crimes Defense Lawyers
Fraud crimes are significant offenses that involve deceptive strategies to illicitly obtain money or valuables. These tactics can include lying, concealing important information, or engaging in misleading actions. Both the federal government and states enforce strict laws to combat these crimes, underscoring their severity. To prove fraud, prosecutors must demonstrate the use of intentional deceit or misrepresentation to commit the offense.
Understanding Fraud vs. Theft
- Theft involves directly taking something of value, often through stealing or force.
- Fraud, on the other hand, relies on carefully crafted deception to obtain something valuable. It’s less about physical force and more about strategic manipulation.
Category of Crime
Fraud falls under the umbrella of white-collar crime, a category of financially motivated, non-violent offenses typically carried out by professionals in business or government.
Seeking Legal Help in Ohio for Federal Fraud Charges
Facing federal fraud charges can be overwhelming, with substantial consequences on the line. A conviction can lead to severe penalties and have lasting effects on your life and freedom. This is why having an Ohio federal criminal attorney or an experienced legal team from the Youngstown Criminal Law Group is crucial to protecting your rights.
Why Choose Youngstown Criminal Law Group?
- Expertise
Our skilled team of Ohio federal criminal attorneys specializes in defending clients against a range of federal fraud allegations.
- Advocacy
We are deeply committed to advocating for the rights of our clients and ensuring they receive a fair defense.
How to Reach Us
If you’re accused of federal fraud, act quickly to protect your future.
- Free Consultation
Begin with a no-cost consultation to discuss your case in detail.
- Contact Number
Call us at (330) 992-3036 to find out how we can assist you.
- Service Area
We proudly serve residents of Akron and neighboring counties, ensuring local representation where it’s needed most.
Protecting your rights is our top priority. Turn to the Youngstown Criminal Law Group for trusted legal representation.
Understanding Federal Fraud Law
Federal fraud is taken seriously in the United States, with numerous statutes designed to protect individuals and organizations from deception. These laws cover fraud in multiple areas, including healthcare, securities, and taxes. Each type of fraud comes with its own legal definition, penalties, and possible defenses.
Health Care Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1347)
What Constitutes Health Care Fraud?
- Engaging in a scheme to deceive a health care benefit program.
- Attempting to unlawfully acquire money or property from a health care benefit program through false information or claims.
Consequences
- Substantial fines and up to 10 years in prison.
- If the fraudulent activity causes serious injury, imprisonment can extend to 20 years, and in cases of death, penalties may include life imprisonment.
Securities Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1348)
Definition and Acts of Securities Fraud
- Fraud involving commodities, registered securities, or any security linked to an issuer.
- Leveraging deception to unlawfully acquire money or property.
Penalties
- Individuals may face fines of up to $250,000, while organizations may be fined up to $500,000.
- Imprisonment for securities fraud can extend up to 25 years.
Examples of Securities Fraud
- Ponzi schemes
- Pyramid schemes
- Foreign currency fraud
Tax Fraud (26 U.S.C. § 7201)
Illegal Activities
- Willfully attempting to evade or defeat paying taxes.
Penalties
- Fines up to $100,000 for individuals and $500,000 for corporations.
- Imprisonment for up to 5 years, or both fines and imprisonment.
- Additional prosecution costs may apply.
Statute of Limitations for Federal Fraud Crimes
Federal fraud crimes typically have a five-year statute of limitations, although specific types of fraud may allow extensions under particular circumstances.
Defense Strategies in Federal Fraud Cases
Common defenses against federal fraud charges include:
- Demonstrating good faith or a lack of intent or knowledge.
- Claiming entrapment or proving the representations were not actually fraudulent.
- Arguing mistaken identity in the case.
Additional Resources for Fraud Prevention and Legal Guidance
Provides resources for reporting fraud and assisting in investigations.
Offers extensive information on federal fraud laws and prevention strategies.
Need Legal Assistance?
Facing federal fraud charges can be stressful and intimidating. At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, our team of expert Ohio Federal Criminal Attorney is dedicated to helping individuals accused of fraud offenses at both the federal and state levels. We focus on preserving your rights and guiding you through every step of the legal process.
Get in Touch
- For consultations, call (330) 992-3036
- Proudly servingAkron and nearby areas, we are here to offer dependable legal support when you need it most.
Don’t face fraud charges alone. Contact Youngstown Criminal Law Group today for skilled legal guidance and representation.