Federal Fraud Crimes Defense Lawyers

Fraud is a serious offense involving elaborate schemes to illegally obtain money or other benefits. This is achieved through deceptive methods like lying, concealing crucial information, or misleading actions. Both federal and state governments have established laws to combat these crimes, underscoring their severity. To secure a conviction, prosecutors must present evidence of a deliberate plan of deceit or trickery intended to commit fraud.

Understanding Fraud vs. Theft

It’s important to distinguish between fraud and theft, as they are legally distinct concepts.

• Theft vs. Fraud: Theft involves the direct taking of something valuable through force or stealth. In contrast, fraud is about deceiving someone to willingly give up something of value. Essentially, fraud is a crime of deception rather than direct force.
• Category of Crime: Fraud is classified as a white-collar crime. This term refers to non-violent, financially motivated offenses typically committed by professionals in business and government settings. A New Castle criminal lawyer can provide clarity on the specifics of your case.

Seeking Legal Help in Ohio for Federal Fraud Charges

Facing federal fraud charges can be an overwhelming experience, with severe consequences hanging in the balance. A conviction can lead to harsh penalties, including significant fines and imprisonment, jeopardizing your freedom and future. For this reason, it is crucial to have a skilled legal representative from a reputable New Castle criminal lawyer fighting for you.

Why Choose Youngstown Criminal Law Group?

• Expertise: Our team of legal professionals specializes in building strong defenses for clients facing federal fraud allegations.
• Advocacy: We are dedicated to fiercely advocating for our clients’ rights at every stage of the legal process.

How to Reach Us

If you have been accused of federal fraud, you must act quickly to protect your rights. Contact New Castle DUI lawyer for a robust defense.

• Free Consultation: We offer a no-cost initial discussion to review your case and outline your options.
• Our Phone Number: Call us at (330) 992-3036 to see how we can assist you.
• Serving Area: Our services are available to residents of New Castle and the surrounding counties in Ohio, providing expert legal support where you need it most.

Protecting your rights is our highest priority. Do not face these legal challenges alone; contact a New Castle DUI lawyer for expert assistance and dedicated representation.

Understanding Federal Fraud Law

Fraud is a major crime in the United States, addressed by numerous federal statutes. These laws are designed to shield individuals and organizations from deceptive practices in various sectors, such as healthcare, securities, and taxation. Each type of fraud has its own specific legal definitions, potential penalties, and available defenses.

Health Care Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1347)

What Constitutes Health Care Fraud?

• Executing or attempting to carry out a scheme to defraud any health care benefit program.
• Illegally obtaining money or property from a health care benefit program through fraudulent means.

Consequences:

• Those found guilty can face substantial fines and imprisonment for up to ten years.
• If the fraud results in serious bodily injury, the prison sentence can be extended to twenty years. If it results in death, the penalty can be life imprisonment.

Securities Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1348)

Definition and Acts of Securities Fraud:

• Engaging in or attempting fraud related to commodities, registered securities, or any security of an issuer.
• Using false pretenses to acquire money or property in connection with securities.

Penalties:

• Offenders may face penalties up to $250,000 for individuals ($500,000 for organizations) and/or up to twenty-five years in prison.

Examples Include:

• Ponzi schemes, pyramid schemes, embezzlement, and foreign currency fraud. A skilled New Castle criminal lawyer can help dissect the complexities of these cases.

Tax Fraud (26 U.S.C. § 7201)

Illegal Activities:

• Intentionally attempting to evade or defeat the payment of taxes owed.

Penalties:

• A fine of up to $100,000 for individuals ($500,000 for corporations), a maximum of five years in prison, or both, in addition to covering the costs of prosecution.

Statute of Limitations

Generally, federal fraud crimes have a five-year statute of limitations, meaning the government has five years from the date the crime was committed to file charges. However, specific exceptions can extend this period.

Defense Strategies

An experienced New Castle criminal lawyer can explore various defense strategies. Some common approaches include:

• Arguing good faith or a lack of fraudulent intent or knowledge.
• Claiming entrapment, where the defendant was induced by law enforcement to commit the crime.
• Asserting that the statements or representations made were not, in fact, fraudulent.
• Cases of mistaken identity.

Additional Resources

• Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Fraud Reporting Tool: This tool uses reports from consumers to conduct investigations and take legal action against fraudulent operations.
• Department of Justice (DOJ) Fraud Section: Provides comprehensive information on different types of fraud and the government’s efforts to combat them.

Need Legal Assistance?

Youngstown Criminal Law Group

Facing federal fraud charges can be incredibly stressful. Our legal team, including a dedicated New Castle DUI lawyer, works with individuals accused of both federal and state fraud offenses. We provide expert legal support focused on protecting your rights and securing your freedom.

Contact Us: For a consultation, please call (330) 992-3036. Serving New Castle and the surrounding areas in Ohio, we are here to guide you through these challenging legal proceedings.