What is Fraud?
Fraud is a white-collar crime that is categorized by deception— deception to gain something personally or financially, to persuade someone to give you something of value, or to pretend to be someone else or something that you are not. Fraud is both a civil wrongdoing and if there is theft involved, a criminal wrongdoing punishable by law. Conviction of criminal fraud charges would apply if you intentionally deceived for gain of property or money, were able to successfully obtain the money or property, and intended to keep the money or property had you not been caught. Fraud may also include theft of identity, which is a growing concern as technology make it easier than ever to obtain people’s identifying information.
If you are accused of fraud, it is critical that you speak with a qualified, experienced Fresno white collar defense attorney from our team at The Law Office of Brian C. Andritch. You will need an attorney who has the knowledge and insight into fighting white collar crimes, and Attorney Brian Andritch is backed by over 18 years of experience, including experience as a prosecutor. Don’t face criminal charges alone, contact our team.
The Different Types of Fraud
Committing fraud can involve stealing information, money, identity, or resources through deception.
Types of fraud include:
- Identity theft: Identity theft can involve use of someone’s social security number, work and income information, and credit rating to open credit cards or lines of credit, access bank accounts, or other use for personal gain.
- Check fraud: This involves using a check to pay for something knowing that there is not enough money in the account or use of stolen checks with forged signatures to pay for things.
- Credit card fraud: Using someone else’s credit card, or credit card information to make large purchases, or multiple purchases. This usually occurs in a short period of time once stolen. This is also considered identity theft.
- Insurance fraud: Car, home, renters, or health care insurance claims that are fraudulent or inflated are considered insurance fraud.
- Internet fraud: This includes selling fake or counterfeit items or taking an order without ever intending to deliver a product.
- Pyramid schemes or Work-From-Home scams: These types of schemes typically involve promises of high-return on investment and require up-front payment to start your “business” or to buy a sales demo package.
- Website misdirection: This involves mimicking reputable websites that sell products or services and redirecting the credit card information, allowing the hacker to use the credit card information to make their own purchases.
Fraud charges may be categorized as both state and federal but may also involve a civil suit because of the harm that fraud causes to the individual that is targeted. Your charge and penalty will be determined by the specific crime and factors of the violation.
You Need an Attorney
When you are convicted of charges of a white collar crime like fraud, you will be penalized by heavy fines, compensation to those who were victimized, jail or prison time, probation, and rehabilitation as deemed necessary. Hiring an attorney who has your best interest at heart can help you protect your freedom and your rights, and hopefully minimize sentencing. Our Fresno white collar crime lawyer can help you understand the legal process and the potential investigation while preparing your defense. Don’t go it alone, let our team stand by your side in court to fight for you.
Contact our team to discuss your case in a free consultation at (559) 484-2112.