Lafayette Fraud Lawyer
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Seasoned Fraud Charges Defense Attorney in Lafayette, LA
Fraud is the use of misrepresentation for financial gain or to cause financial harm to another. There are many different types of fraud, which can result in criminal charges at the state or federal levels. Each type of fraud has unique penalties and may have unique options for defense. It is essential that your Lafayette fraud lawyer is experienced with numerous types of fraud and understands how to investigate and defend against the fraud charges you face.
A fraud conviction can have significant consequences on your life, from immediate criminal consequences, like prison time and fines, to long-term collateral consequences, like being barred from certain areas of employment. It is essential that you secure effective legal defense, as a skilled attorney can prevent or limit the penalties of fraud charges.
Stockstill Defense Firm: Experienced and Diligent Fraud Defense
The team at Stockstill Defense Firm has years of experience in criminal defense cases in both state and federal courts. We have dealt with complex cases like fraud and white collar defense. Whether you are an individual or a business, our firm can navigate your fraud investigation or charges.
For over 25 years, our Lafayette criminal defense attorneys have represented those who have been accused of criminal offenses. We understand the unique local, state, and federal laws that may apply to you. Our team knows how to build a strong defense in the face of many types of fraud charges. We can navigate both straightforward and complex cases while explaining the criminal justice process to you.
At Stockstill Defense Firm, we have a history of proven results, from case dismissals to beneficial plea deals. When you are facing an investigation or charges of fraud, you need a skilled attorney from our firm who can fight for you and advocate for your future.
Understanding Fraud Offenses in Lafayette, LA
Fraud occurs when the truth is misrepresented or suppressed to secure an advantage over another person, inconvenience them, or cause them to lose something. Inaction or silence that leads to the misrepresentation of truth is also fraud. There were 911 arrests for fraud in Louisiana in 2019. In the U.S. overall, there were 112,707 arrests for fraud, 51,212 (or 64.1%) of which were male.
Criminal offenses in Lafayette, if they are charged at the state level, are handled by the 15th Judicial District Court (JDC). The 15th JDC serves Lafayette Parish as well as Vermillion and Acadia Parishes. The Lafayette Parish Courthouse is at 800 S. Buchanan Street in Lafayette.
Types of Fraud That May Be Criminally Charged
Fraud is one of the most common types of white collar crimes, as there are so many varied types of fraud. Individuals or entities could be charged with criminal fraud offenses. Some of the most common types of fraud committed by individuals and companies include:
Credit card fraud
This involves using someone’s credit card or their information to make purchases without their knowledge or approval. The information may have been stolen through scams, data breaches, or the physical theft of the card itself. This fraud is more seriously penalized when it is a large-scale operation that steals from many people.
Insurance fraud
This occurs when a person or a company makes false or exaggerated claims to insurance companies to receive payouts they are not owed. Insurance fraud includes false injury claims, overblown costs in claims, or property insurance claims for arson done by the property owner.
Tax fraud
This occurs when a taxpayer provides false information or fails to report all information to underpay their taxes.
Check fraud
This includes stealing, forging, altering, or counterfeiting checks to gain money.
Bank fraud
This occurs whenever illegal actions are directed at a bank, credit union, or other financial institution. It includes loan fraud, embezzlement, and other illegal actions.
There are many other types of fraud, including mail and wire fraud, identity theft, securities fraud, mortgage fraud, and Medicaid fraud. Each type of fraud may require unique investigation methods and a different approach to defend against it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Do You Defend Against a Fraud Case in Court?
The most effective way to defend against fraud is to work with an experienced fraud defense attorney. The right defense for your case will depend on the type of fraud and other specifics about your situation. An experienced attorney can review these specifics and determine the right defense, such as challenging the credibility of the witnesses, whether you intended to defraud anyone, or whether you were under duress. An attorney can also challenge the evidence if it was obtained illegally.
Can You Tell Your Lawyer About the Fraud You Committed?
When you have hired a lawyer to defend you in a fraud case, disclosure is protected, so the lawyer cannot reveal the information you tell them unless you consent to it. There are some exceptions to this, such as a future crime that would cause harm to another person. It is always important to talk with the specific attorney about what you do or do not reveal to them, as some attorneys may want more information than others.
How Long Do You Go to Jail for Credit Card Fraud in Louisiana?
How long you go to jail for credit card fraud in Louisiana will depend on the type of credit card fraud, the use of the credit card, the amount stolen, and the status of the person who defrauded the victim. Many types of credit card fraud result in years in prison, along with significant fines and restitution. An attorney can explain the consequences that may apply in your case.
Is Bank Fraud a Felony in Louisiana?
Bank fraud is typically a felony in Louisiana, as it may be penalized by prison time with or without hard labor. Offenses that allow for punishment at hard labor are considered felonies. The severity of the penalty for bank fraud will depend on the amount stolen, whether the offense was committed or only attempted, and other factors about the case.
Defending Yourself Against Fraud Charges With Effective Legal Representation
Although fraud crimes are non-violent offenses, you must always take them seriously. Any conviction can significantly impact your life, and fraud convictions can prevent you from working in your field of employment. At Stockstill Defense Firm, we can help you if you are being investigated or charged with fraud. Contact our firm today.
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