Dublin

Fraud Lawyer

While facing any criminal accusation could be frightening, a situation could be made even more stressful when the accusations are regarding a severe criminal offense. If you have been accused of fraudulent behavior, your rights could be at risk. Under these difficult circumstances, you may want to seek the services of a Dublin fraud lawyer.

Beyond potentially heavy fines and a prison sentence, a serious criminal conviction could have a lasting impact on your personal and professional life. If you worried about facing serious allegations, it may be time to speak with a legal representative who could fight on your behalf. A well-versed defense attorney could answer any questions you may have about the criminal court process and the laws relating to your charges. En Español.

Actions That Are Considered Fraud

While many criminal acts fall under the umbrella term of fraud, this offense is generally considered any act intended to enrich the accused and cause loss to another person. The California Penal Code § 470 classifies fraud charges as both misdemeanors and felonies, depending on the circumstances of the charge and any prior criminal convictions. Specific acts include, but are not limited to:

• Forgery (Penal Code 470)
• Perjury, or lying (Penal Code 118)
• Theft (Penal Code 484)
• Lying about ownership of property in order to profit (Penal Code 484.1)
• Selling or conveying someone else’s credit card (Penal Code 484(b))
• Embezzlement (Penal Code 503)
• Bribery (Penal Code 67)
• Insurance fraud (Penal Code 550)
• Workers’ compensation fraud (Penal Code 549)

Unfortunately, an individual lacking an understanding of the specific and nuanced law in California may be unaware of which act he or she is violating. By working with a Dublin lawyer, you could understand the law as it relates to your fraud charges so that you could work to build an adequate defense.

Potential Punishments in Dublin

If a fraud charge involves the theft of property, the charge is further divided into classifications of petty theft or grand theft. The court could punish people convicted of petty theft with a fine of up to $1,000 and a maximum of six months in jail under C.A.P.C §490.

However, certain acts  — such as grand theft of a firearm — carry heavier penalties, including up to three years in jail, as found in C.A.P.C. §489(a). This is considered a more severe offense than other acts of grand theft, and is thus is typically penalized with a maximum sentence of one year in jail. If an act of fraud violates federal law, it could carry even harsher penalties. Violating federal law may put someone at risk of being sentenced to federal prison, as well as the risk of having certain California licenses revoked — if the court determines the charged act violated accepted community standards.

Prior to a criminal trial, law enforcement officials may seize any property, such as a vehicle, believed to be involved in a fraudulent act, as well as possibly restricting the use of any property on a temporary or permanent basis. Leading up to a trial, a tenacious fraud attorney in Dublin could help to argue against these possible penalties based on the circumstances of the case.

Speak to a Dublin Fraud Attorney About Charges

Any time you face criminal charges, your future could be at risk. While some charges may only carry minor penalties, many could result in harsh consequences. If you find yourself facing charges or even accusations of fraudulent actions, an assertive Dublin fraud lawyer with an understanding of local rules and regulations could help explain to the relevant court procedure and advise you on your legal rights during all steps of criminal proceedings.

Luckily, you do not have to navigate the legal system alone. Retaining a criminal defense attorney could help you to rest assured that your charges are being handled by a seasoned professional. To learn more about your legal options and right to a defense, call today.