Fraud Defense Lawyer

At Varghese and Associates, we understand the complexities and challenges that come with facing fraud charges. Our dedicated team of fraud defense lawyers in New York City is committed to providing aggressive and strategic legal representation to individuals and businesses accused of various types of fraud. With a deep understanding of both state and federal laws, our firm is well-equipped to handle a wide range of fraud cases, including but not limited to financial fraud, insurance fraud, securities fraud, and healthcare fraud. Contact us today.

What Constitutes White-Collar Fraud in NY?

White-collar fraud in New York encompasses a broad range of non-violent crimes typically committed for financial gain. These offenses are usually characterized by deceit, concealment, or violation of trust and are not dependent on the application or threat of physical force or violence. Individuals and businesses alike can be accused of white-collar fraud, which often involves complex financial transactions. The following are some of the key types of white-collar fraud recognized under New York law and federal law:

1. Securities Fraud

Securities fraud includes deceptive practices in the stock and commodities markets. It often involves misrepresenting information investors use to make decisions, including Ponzi schemes, insider trading, and manipulation of stock prices.

2. Embezzlement

Embezzlement occurs when someone who is entrusted to manage or monitor someone else’s money or property steals all or part of that money or property for personal gain. This can include employees taking company funds or fiduciaries misappropriating the assets they’re tasked with protecting.

3. Wire Fraud and Mail Fraud

Both wire fraud and mail fraud involve the use of communication facilities (mail and electronic communications, respectively) to commit acts of fraud. These broad categories can encompass various activities, from phishing scams to sophisticated financial schemes. Our mail fraud indictment lawyers have experience in defending cases just like yours.

4. Bank Fraud

Bank fraud is using potentially illegal means to obtain money, assets, or other property owned or held by a financial institution or to obtain money from depositors by fraudulently posing as a bank or other financial institution.

5. Insurance Fraud

Insurance fraud involves making false claims or providing misleading information to insurance companies to receive payment or benefits. This can range from exaggerating claims to staging accidents or injuries. Contact our insurance fraud lawyers today.

6. Healthcare Fraud

Healthcare fraud involves filing dishonest healthcare claims to receive a profit. This can include billing for services not rendered, upcoding services and medical items to more expensive ones, and performing unnecessary services for billing insurance providers.

7. Tax Evasion

Tax evasion is the illegal evasion of taxes by individuals, corporations, and trusts. Tax evasion often involves underreporting income, inflating deductions, or hiding money and assets in unreported offshore accounts.

8. Money Laundering

Money laundering is the process of making large amounts of money generated by a criminal activity, such as drug trafficking or terrorist funding, appear to be earned legally. It typically involves three steps: placement, layering, and integration.

How a Fraud Defense Lawyer Can Help

As a premier criminal defense law firm, Varghese and Associates is deeply committed to defending individuals and businesses accused of white-collar crimes, including various forms of fraud. Understanding the complexities of fraud charges and the severe consequences they can carry, our team of experienced fraud defense lawyers is dedicated to providing the highest level of legal representation and support. Here’s how we can help if you’re facing fraud allegations:

Comprehensive Case Evaluation

Our first step is to conduct a thorough evaluation of your case. We meticulously review all allegations, evidence, and circumstances surrounding your case. This comprehensive approach allows us to identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, as well as any potential defenses and strategies that can be employed in your favor.

Experienced Investigations

Fraud cases often involve complex financial transactions and documents. Our firm collaborates with forensic accountants, financial analysts, and other experts to dissect the prosecution’s evidence and build a robust defense. By leveraging our network of professionals, we can uncover crucial evidence that supports your case and challenges the allegations against you.

Strategic Defense Planning

Every case is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work in fraud defense. Our criminal defense lawyers tailor a defense strategy specifically designed for your situation, considering the specifics of your case, the evidence at hand, and the legal statutes involved. Whether it’s negotiating for reduced charges or preparing for trial, our strategies are always aligned with your best interests.

Negotiation and Plea Bargaining

Sometimes, the best course of action may involve negotiating with prosecutors. Our fraud defense lawyers are skilled negotiators who understand how to communicate with the other side to achieve favorable outcomes effectively. Whether it’s arguing for reduced charges, lesser penalties, or alternative sentencing options, we aim to secure the best possible result for you.

Trial Representation

If your case goes to trial, you need a legal team that’s not only knowledgeable but also persuasive and compelling in the courtroom. Our federal crime lawyers are experienced litigators with a proven track record of success in trial settings. We are prepared to defend your rights and interests vigorously, presenting a strong and convincing case to the jury.

Protecting Your Rights and Reputation

Fraud charges can have a devastating impact on your personal and professional life. Beyond the legal defense, we are committed to protecting your reputation and minimizing the public and private fallout from the allegations. We aim to navigate you through this challenging time with discretion and dignity.

Providing Support and Guidance

Facing fraud charges can be overwhelming and stressful. Our team is here to provide legal representation, support, and guidance throughout the process. We ensure that you are fully informed about your rights, the progress of your case, and all your legal options.

At Varghese and Associates, we understand the stakes are high regarding fraud charges. Our dedicated white-collar criminal defense lawyers are here to offer the aggressive, knowledgeable, and compassionate representation you need to fight these allegations. If you or your business is facing fraud charges, contact us today to discuss how we can help protect your future.

Strategic Negotiation

In some cases, negotiation with prosecutors may be the most advantageous course of action. Our fraud defense attorneys are skilled negotiators who can effectively advocate for reduced charges or alternative resolutions. We always aim to minimize the impact of fraud charges on your life and future.

Penalties for Being Convicted of Fraud

Being convicted of fraud can lead to severe penalties, which vary widely depending on the specifics of the case, including the type of fraud, the amount of money involved, the number of victims, and the jurisdiction in which the conviction occurs. Here’s an overview of potential penalties for fraud convictions:

Financial Penalties

• Restitution: Convicted individuals may be required to pay back the money or return the property to the victims.
• Fines: Courts can impose significant fines, often reaching into the tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the severity of the fraud.

Incarceration

• Jail or Prison Time: Fraud convictions can result in sentences ranging from a few months in jail for minor offenses to several years in federal prison for more serious or large-scale fraud schemes.

Probation

• Supervised Release: Instead of, or in addition to, incarceration, individuals may be sentenced to probation, requiring them to comply with specific conditions such as regular check-ins with a probation officer, maintaining employment, and avoiding further legal trouble.

Additional Legal Consequences

• Criminal Record: A fraud conviction will appear on background checks, potentially affecting future employment opportunities, especially in industries requiring high trust.
• Loss of Professional Licenses: Professionals convicted of fraud may lose their licenses to practice in law, healthcare, accounting, and finance.
• Immigration Consequences: Non-citizens may face deportation or be barred from re-entering the country following a fraud conviction.

Personal and Social Consequences

• Reputational Damage: The stigma of a fraud conviction can severely impact one’s social standing and professional reputation, making it difficult to rebuild trust and relationships.
• Financial Instability: The combined impact of fines, restitution, legal fees, and potential loss of employment can lead to long-term financial difficulties.

The specific penalties for a fraud conviction depend on various factors, including the laws of the state or country, the details of the offense, and the defendant’s criminal history. It’s crucial for individuals facing fraud charges to seek competent legal representation to navigate the complexities of the legal system and potentially mitigate the consequences of a conviction.

How To Tell You Are Being Investigated for Fraud

Being under investigation for fraud can be a distressing experience, with potentially serious legal and personal consequences. It’s crucial to recognize the signs of an investigation early on, so you can take appropriate steps to protect yourself, such as consulting with a skilled fraud defense lawyer. Here are key indicators that you might be under investigation for fraud:

Unusual Communication from Financial Institutions

If your banks or credit card companies reach out with unusual questions about your accounts, transactions, or personal information, it could be a sign that they’ve detected suspicious activity. This might also be an early indication that law enforcement agencies are scrutinizing your financial dealings.

Subpoenas or Requests for Documents

Receiving a subpoena or a request for documents related to your financial records, business operations, or personal affairs strongly indicates an ongoing investigation. These requests often come from government agencies and require submitting specific documents within a given timeframe.

Interviews with Colleagues or Associates

If people close to you, such as coworkers, business partners, or even friends and family, mention being interviewed or questioned about your activities, you are likely under investigation. Law enforcement agencies often contact individuals connected to the person of interest to gather more information.

Freezing of Assets or Accounts

An unexpected freeze on your bank accounts or assets can be a direct sign of an investigation. This action is usually taken to preserve funds that may be subject to forfeiture or restitution pending the outcome of an investigation.

Contact by Law Enforcement or Regulatory Agencies

Direct contact by law enforcement officers, whether by phone, mail, or in person, especially from agencies like the FBI, SEC, or IRS, clearly indicates an investigation. They may request an interview or information regarding your activities.

Changes in Employment Status

If you are suddenly suspended from your job, especially if you work in finance, healthcare, or another sector prone to fraud investigations, it might be due to an ongoing investigation into your actions or those of your employer.

Legal or Professional Notices

Receiving notices from professional bodies or regulatory agencies regarding your professional conduct or licensing can also indicate an investigation. These bodies may conduct their own investigations parallel to or in cooperation with law enforcement.

Surveillance or Unusual Observations

Noticing that you are being followed or observing unusual vehicles or individuals in your neighborhood can be a sign of surveillance, which is often part of a fraud investigation. While this is less common and more difficult to attribute to an investigation definitively, it’s something to be aware of.

Consult a Fraud Defense Lawyer Immediately

If you suspect you are being investigated for fraud, taking immediate action to protect your rights and interests is critical. Consulting with a knowledgeable fraud defense lawyer can provide you with the guidance and representation needed to navigate the investigation process. A white-collar crime defense lawyer can help you understand your legal obligations and rights, advise you on how to respond to requests from authorities and develop a strategy to address the investigation.

At Varghese and Associates, our experienced fraud defense lawyers are adept at handling complex investigations and are committed to providing aggressive and effective defense strategies for our clients. If you believe you are under investigation for fraud, contact us today for a confidential consultation to discuss your situation and how we can help.

What To Do If Have Been Charged With Fraud

If you’ve been charged with fraud, taking immediate and strategic actions to protect your rights and future is crucial. Here’s a concise guide on what to do:

• Stay Calm and Analyze the Situation: Reacting hastily can complicate matters. Take a moment to understand the gravity of the situation.
• Avoid Discussing Your Case: Do not discuss your case with anyone other than your attorney. This includes discussions in person, over the phone, or through digital communications.
• Contact a Fraud Defense Lawyer: Securing experienced legal representation is critical. A skilled lawyer can navigate the complexities of fraud charges and develop a defense strategy.
• Do Not Destroy Evidence: Destroying evidence can lead to additional charges and negatively impact your defense. Preserve all relevant documents and information.
• Comply with Legal Obligations: Follow any court orders or legal directives. Failing to comply can worsen your situation.
• Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all interactions related to your case, including dates, times, and the nature of those interactions.
• Understand Your Charges: Work with your lawyer to fully understand the charges against you, the potential consequences, and the legal process ahead.
• Prepare for the Financial Implications: Legal defense can be costly. Plan for the financial impact of your defense strategy, including potential fines or restitution.
• Stay Informed: Stay updated on the progress of your case and maintain open communication with your lawyer.
• Consider Your Options: Discuss all available options with your lawyer, including plea bargains, trials, and alternative resolutions.
• Focus on Your Well-being: The stress of facing fraud charges can be overwhelming. Consider seeking support from professionals to manage stress and maintain your health.

Taking these steps can significantly impact the outcome of your case. With the right approach and a skilled defense lawyer, you can navigate the legal challenges and work towards a favorable resolution.

Why Choose Varghese & Associates

Choosing Varghese & Associates for your legal defense means selecting a firm that stands out for its commitment, expertise, and results. Here’s why we are the right choice for those facing criminal charges, especially in complex areas like fraud:

• Proven Track Record: Our firm boasts a history of successful outcomes for our clients, from dismissals and acquittals to favorable plea agreements.
• Experience in Fraud Defense: Our team specializes in fraud and white-collar crimes, offering unparalleled knowledge and strategic defense tactics tailored to these complex cases.
• Personalized Attention: We understand the impact of criminal charges on your life. Our personalized approach ensures you receive dedicated support and clear communication throughout your case.
• Aggressive Advocacy: We are known for our aggressive representation in court, fighting tirelessly to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
• Strategic Negotiators: Our criminal defense attorneys are skilled negotiators who can often secure favorable terms for our clients before a trial becomes necessary.
• Comprehensive Resources: We utilize a network of experts, from forensic accountants to private investigators, to build the strongest defense on your behalf.
• Reputation: Our firm is respected in the legal community for our ethical standards, legal acumen, and vigorous client defense.

Choosing Varghese & Associates means partnering with a fully committed team to your defense and well-being. Contact us today to learn how we can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system with confidence and expertise.

Ready to Defend Your Future?

Facing fraud charges can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate this challenging time alone. Varghese & Associates provides the aggressive, knowledgeable defense you need. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and take the first step towards protecting your rights and securing your future.

Fraud Defense Lawyer FAQs

What is fraud?

Fraud involves deceitful practices or false representations intended to gain an unfair or unlawful advantage, typically financial. It can range from simple scams to complex schemes involving multiple parties and large sums of money.

Why do I need a fraud defense lawyer?

A fraud defense lawyer specializes in defending individuals accused of fraud. They understand the complexities of fraud laws and can navigate the legal system to protect your rights, potentially reducing or dismissing charges against you.

Can fraud charges be dropped or reduced?

Yes, with a skilled defense lawyer, it’s possible to have fraud charges dropped or reduced. This can be achieved by challenging the evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, or demonstrating the lack of intent to commit fraud.

What should I do if I’m being investigated for fraud?

If you suspect you’re under investigation for fraud, contact a fraud defense lawyer immediately. Avoid discussing the case with others and do not destroy any potential evidence. Your lawyer will guide you on the next steps.

How does a fraud defense lawyer defend against fraud charges?

A fraud defense lawyer can employ several strategies, including challenging the evidence’s validity, arguing lack of intent, negotiating plea deals, or proving the actions were not fraudulent.

What are the consequences of a fraud conviction?

Consequences can include hefty fines, restitution payments, probation, and imprisonment. Additionally, a conviction can lead to a criminal record, loss of professional licenses, and significant personal and professional repercussions.

How long does a fraud case take to resolve?

The duration of a fraud case can vary widely depending on its complexity, the amount of evidence, and legal proceedings involved. Cases can last from several months to a few years.

Can a fraud conviction be expunged from my record?

Expungement policies vary by jurisdiction. Under certain conditions, it may be possible to have a fraud conviction expunged from your record in some places. A lawyer can provide advice specific to your case and jurisdiction.

What’s the difference between civil and criminal fraud?

Civil fraud typically involves disputes between individuals or entities over fraudulent actions that result in financial harm, while criminal fraud involves cases prosecuted by the state or federal government for violations of fraud laws.

Remember, early intervention by a skilled fraud defense lawyer can be crucial in defending against fraud charges. Contact Varghese & Associates today to protect your rights and start building your defense.