Accused of a Fraud Crime? Here’s What to Know:
If you have been accused of fraud in the state of Nevada, securing legal counsel is an important step. You want to work with a trusted attorney to help ensure that you get the support and guidance to successfully resolve your case.
Trying to handle things on your own can be daunting, and can also result in a less-than-successful outcome. You may not be familiar with the ins and outs of Nevada fraud law, or be clear on the kinds of evidence you can collect and produce. All of that can lead you to be convicted because you did not have a strong defense.
You also need to understand the charges brought against you, so you and your attorney can work together to build a case to dismiss or reduce your fraud charges. Recognizing the serious nature of these criminal charges is something to be taken very seriously. Here is what to consider, to improve your defense and increase your peace of mind.
From gaming fraud to healthcare fraud and more, there are a number of ways a person can defraud someone. But there are also times when the evidence may look bad, but there was no ill intent. If you are facing fraud charges in Nevada, working with an attorney can help you fight those charges successfully.
How Does Nevada See Fraud?
In Nevada, fraud is considered a criminal offense if a person is misrepresenting themselves in some way and getting benefits to which they would not normally be entitled. This can be anything from a person lying about their income to receive public assistance such as food stamps, to someone manipulating a gaming system at a casino.
People also defraud auto insurance companies, mortgage lenders, workers’ compensation funds, and more. Some of the most common benefits received through fraud include:
- Money
- Insurance proceeds
- Public services
- Housing
Most fraud charges in the state are felony charges, and they can carry a jail sentence for smaller crimes or equate to time in the Nevada state Prison system for larger fraud convictions. Depending on the kinds of transactions involved, there are several types of fraud charges – including, but not limited to:
- Embezzlement
- Identity Theft
- Forgery
- Bribery
- Possession of instruments used for fraud
- Possession of a credit/debit card without the cardholder’s consent
Being charged with fraud needs to be taken seriously, because it can drastically affect your future and your freedom. If you have been charged with fraud, you want to reach out to a trusted attorney immediately to get started on handling your case.
Penalties for Fraud in Nevada
Because fraud is a felony charge, it involves much more than just paying a fee or promising not to do it again. With most of the fraud crimes in Nevada being prosecuted as felonies, the most common penalties if convicted include:
- Fines (based on the judge’s discretion)
- Nevada State Prison time
- Reimbursing the cost of the investigation
- Making payments for restitution
In some cases you may be able to use a plea bargain to get the charged reduced, or even dismissed. An attorney can help you do that as successfully as possible. Not all cases can be bargained down, with having legal counsel is one of the best ways to improve your odds of a better outcome in your case.
Defenses Against Nevada Fraud Charges
Depending on the facts of your case, and what you and your attorney can prove, there are several ways you can defend yourself against fraud charges. Legal representation is vital because it allows you to focus on the best defense in your particular situation.
There may be extenuating circumstances that come to light, and that your attorney can bring before a judge to improve your chances of being found not guilty or having your charges dropped. The most common defenses to fraud charges in Nevada are:
- False accusations (someone said you defrauded them, but you actually did not)
- No intent to defraud (you made an honest mistake and received something you should not have, but did not do it on purpose)
- Exclusion of evidence due to unlawful search and seizure (Evidence of fraud was collected, but it was done in an illegal way and therefore cannot be used)
The goal is to create a reasonable doubt as to the guilt of the defendant. If that doubt can be created you have a better chance of seeing your case dismissed.
Do You Really Need an Attorney?
The short answer is yes. You absolutely need at attorney if you’re facing fraud charges. Since those are felonies that can carry serious prison time if convicted, you want to fight back with quality legal representation you can trust.
From gaming fraud to healthcare fraud and more, there are a number of ways a person can defraud someone. But there are also times when the evidence may look bad, but there was no ill intent. If you are facing fraud charges in Nevada, working with an attorney can help you fight those charges successfully.
The prosecution will have attorneys on the case, and you don’t want to go up against them by yourself. Fortunately, you do not have to battle your charges alone. Instead, you can seek legal support to resolve your case and move on with your life.
Do you need a Fraud Lawyer in Las Vegas?
If You’re Facing Charges, We’re Here To Help.
Call us for helpTo learn more about criminal defense in Las Vegas or to discuss a particular criminal case that you or someone you love is facing, Call ATAC Law firm for help to get your charges reduced or dismissed.
Contact us for a FREE phone meeting to discuss your case with what people are calling the best criminal defense attorney in Las Vegas.
At ATAC, our Las Vegas team of lawyers is here to work with you to help you through your case.
