Allegations of fraud could lead to difficult, long-term consequences for you. If you are convicted of a fraud offense, it could make getting a job or securing a loan difficult for the rest of your life. For this reason, it is important to get a seasoned Toledo criminal defense lawyer to help you avoid a fraud conviction.
If you have been arrested under suspicion of fraud, now is the time to talk to legal representation. The same is true if you believe you are under investigation but have not yet been charged. At Groth & Associates, we have over 150 years of combined experience handling serious cases.
Our Toledo fraud lawyer is here to help you review your defense options so that you can protect yourself. As your local full-service law firm, we are prepared to offer the support and representation you need to fight the charges you’re facing.
What is Fraud?
In general, fraud occurs when a person obtains a benefit, typically financial, for themselves or another person through the use of deception. To qualify as fraud, the person must knowingly use deception in a way that harms another individual.
Fraud laws are broad because fraudulent conduct can take many different forms, however, what every fraud conviction should have in common is intent. It is impossible to accidentally defraud someone, given that a measure of intent must be present for the state to prove fraud.
Fraud Involves Intent
The primary issue regarding intent is whether or not the accused individual purposefully used a misrepresentation of facts in order to obtain a benefit. For example, if the accused was simply mistaken and made the misrepresentation accidentally and in good faith, criminal charges are not warranted.
Fraud must also use some form of deception. This deception could occur in different ways. For example, fraud can happen when a person pretends to be another individual, or it could involve forging or altering a document.
A skilled Toledo fraud attorney from our firm can help structure a defense to contest any allegation of fraud. We have a deep understanding of these charges and know what prosecutors need to establish intent. Reach out to our team today to learn more about the charges you’re facing and how we will combat them.
For a free legal consultation with a fraud lawyer serving Toledo, call (419) 930-3030
Types of Fraud Cases We Handle
There are many different types of fraud offenses. Some types of fraud are primarily covered by federal law. Other allegations could result in a prosecution on a state or federal level. Our Toledo fraud lawyer is prepared to build a robust defense in either system of justice for any of the following types of fraud charges:
Wire Fraud
Wire fraud is not a new phenomenon. However, this form of fraud grew exponentially with the growth of the internet. Wire fraud occurs when a person uses a type of electronic communication in order to commit a fraudulent act. Wire fraud could involve using a stolen identity to access sensitive information or transferring funds from a bank.
Mail Fraud
Mail fraud involves a fraudulent act that occurs through the U.S. mail. While similar to wire fraud, these acts must occur through the postal system instead of in digital form. Mail fraud could involve sending a fraudulent solicitation to someone in the hopes that they hand over their identifying information.
Tax Fraud
Tax fraud could occur at both the federal and state levels. Any act to evade or illegally reduce a tax burden could qualify as tax fraud. While these charges often target individuals, it is possible for businesses and large corporations to commit tax fraud as well. An example of tax fraud could involve overstating losses or deductions with the willful intent to lower the amount owed.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Me (419) 930-3030
Penalties for Fraud in Ohio
Penalties for a fraud conviction in Ohio vary depending on the type of fraud you’ve been charged with. The amount of money involved and whether the case is prosecuted at the state or federal level both factor into the consequences you’ll face.
Based on the details of your charges, you could be facing any of the following consequences:
- Jail or prison time
- Significant fines
- Restitution payments to the alleged victim
- A permanent criminal record
- Loss of professional licenses
- Difficulty securing employment
- Difficulty obtaining housing or loans
These outcomes can have a profound and lasting impact on your life and livelihood. At a time like this, you need a committed team of Toledo fraud attorneys who understand the weight of your situation and how to protect you from devastating consequences. Reach out to our firm to get the representation and peace of mind you need during this nerve-wracking time.
How Our Fraud Lawyer in Toledo Will Help You
Fighting fraud charges requires strong evidence and a legal strategy. When you hire our Toledo fraud attorneys, we’ll start investigating the charges made against you and building your defense right away. Here’s what we’ll do to help you fight these serious charges:
- Review the prosecution’s evidence for weaknesses and inconsistencies
- Analyze financial records to challenge claims of fraudulent intent
- Ensure law enforcement did not violate your rights during the investigation
- Communicate and negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf
- Push for a plea bargain that will allow you to plead guilty to reduced charges with less serious penalties
- Consult with financial experts and forensic accountants to support your defense
- Prepare you for every stage of the legal process
- Represent you in court and protect you from the worst outcomes
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Reach Out to a Toledo Fraud Attorney Right Away
If you are facing fraud charges, a conviction could upend your life in a number of ways. In addition to the threat of fines or prison time, you could also face challenges in your personal and professional life for years to come.
An attorney will fight your charges and aim to protect you from life-altering consequences. Contact Groth & Associates today to schedule a free consultation and let a fraud lawyer in Toledo review your case.
Call or text (419) 930-3030 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form