Fairfax Fraud Attorneys
Fraud Charges in Virginia
An allegation of fraud can be just as devastating as a conviction. Such an accusation can affect how friends, family, and employers view you, as people equate fraud charges with being untrustworthy. Additionally, fraud offenses are viewed as crimes of moral turpitude, which means if you are a noncitizen, a conviction can drastically affect your petition for a green card or citizenship.
No matter what kind of fraud charges you are facing, you can rely on Lawrence, Smith & Gardner to help you navigate the criminal justice system. We are here to help you, not judge you. We understand the stigma associated with being accused of fraud, and we can help you protect your reputation, as well as your criminal record and your freedom.
Contact us online today or by phone at (833) 460-2848 to speak with a knowledgeable Fairfax fraud defense lawyer about your state or federal charges.
What Is Criminal Fraud?
Criminal fraud commonly entails intentionally deceiving others, making false statements, or providing misleading information to obtain money, property, or access. Instances of fraud may involve altering the amount on a check, utilizing a credit card that has been stolen, or submitting a request for workers' compensation related to an injury that was not sustained while on the job.
Various types of fraud are outlawed by both state and federal laws. This means that being accused of criminal fraud can result in state or federal charges. It is important that you work with a lawyer who understands state and federal criminal defense cases and who has extensive experience handling both.
Types of Fraud
Because fraud can be carried out in various ways, there are several different types of criminal fraud outlined by state and federal laws.
These include but are not limited to:
- Mail fraud
- Check fraud
- Cashier’s check fraud
- Healthcare fraud
- Credit card fraud
- Identity theft
- Internet fraud
- Phishing
- Voter fraud
- Unauthorized banking
- Fictitious banking
- Debt elimination fraud
Charges for these and other types of fraud are incredibly serious. If convicted, you could face years in prison, thousands of dollars in fines, and other harsh consequences. Additionally, because each individual instance of fraud is charged separately, you could be facing multiple counts of fraud, leading to lengthier prison sentences, steeper fines, and other penalties.
How Are Fraud Crimes Charged?
The specific circumstances of the alleged offense impact how the crime of fraud is charged. However, many fraud crimes are felonies. In contrast to misdemeanors, which are lesser offenses, felonies are serious crimes that carry long prison sentences and fines that can exceed tens of thousands of dollars.
Most fraud crimes have their own penalties, but some are prosecuted as though they are theft crimes. At Lawrence, Smith & Gardner, we can help you understand your charges, as well as the potential consequences you face if you are convicted. We can also help you explore your defense options, including filing motions to dismiss, motions to suppress evidence, or seeking reduced charges or penalties. Our Fairfax fraud lawyers have more than 40 years of experience and have secured countless not-guilty verdicts for our clients.
Reach Out to Our Fraud Defense Lawyers Today
If you are being investigated for any type of fraud charge, we can help you plan your next step. More importantly, once you are charged, we can help you with every step, from arraignment to prehearing, trial, plea negotiations, and sentencing. Our attorneys handle a wide variety of cases involving fraud and have helped thousands of clients navigate the criminal justice system.
Many of these cases hinge on technical evidence. Our lawyers are prepared to scrutinize every detail to see if there were violations of your constitutional rights. Possible violations include unlawful search and seizure, including searching your home or seizing evidence without a valid, signed warrant. We can also consult with you if the prosecution offers any deals, and you will always have the ultimate say in how we move forward with your case.
At Lawrence, Smith & Gardner, we are committed to aggressively protecting our clients’ rights, their freedom, and their futures. Get in touch with us today to learn more during a free and confidential consultation.
Call (833) 460-2848 or reach us online using our secure contact form.
Reviews & Testimonials
At Lawrence, Smith & Gardner, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"I am forever grateful for your help!"Dear Mr. Brillantine and Mr. Smith,
Thank you so much for your time and effort in the past several weeks. I am forever grateful for your help! Thank you.- Previous Client -
"The efficient way you and your staff handled my case, resulted in less anxiety for me."Dear Mr. Smith,
I just wanted to drop you a note to express my thanks and appreciation for your professional and courteous help and service. The efficient way you and your staff handled my case, resulted in less anxiety for me.- Previous Client -
"We appreciate the courtesy and professionalism of your wonderful staff."Dear Mr. Smith,
We just want to thank you for all your help in our son’s recent traffic case. Things were looking extremely bleak. However, thanks to your knowledge of the law, persistence, ability to talk to people, hard work and grace … What a relief it has been. We also appreciate the courtesy and professionalism of your wonderful staff.- Previous Client -
"Thank you for making it possible for me to continue with my life."Dear Ron,
I am consumed with awe for your legal maneuvering to assist me in court yesterday. Thank you for making it possible for me to continue with my life.- Previous Client -
"I appreciate the courtesy and professionalism."To Ron Smith,
I just wanted to extend my gratitude to you for representing me earlier this month when I went back to court to obtain my restricted license. I appreciate the courtesy and professionalism from you and your staff and under no circumstances hope to ever need your services for a serious matter like that again.- Previous Client -
"Thanks for that usually elusive gift … a second chance."Dear Mr. Smith,
Thank you for all your help. Please extend my thanks also to Martin for his patient support of an incoherent client, as well as to Lisa for her many phone calls. Thanks for that usually elusive gift … a second chance.- Previous Client -
"Thanks again Ron you ROCK!"Ron,
I can’t thank you enough for everything. If it weren’t for you I would be in a world of hurt today. I owe you so many thanks. If you ever need anything!! Please pass along all my thanks to your staff and co-workers. Please let Lisa I’m so sorry you missed her lunch too. Thanks again Ron you ROCK!- Previous Client -
"I can look back on this experience as a valuable lesson and continue on with my life."Dear Mr. Smith,
I wanted to tell you how grateful I am for your help with my recent difficult situation. I was amazed at your skill and knowledge of the court system, and appreciative of your insight in these matters. I can look back on this experience as a valuable lesson and continue on with my life. Thank you for giving me that opportunity.- Previous Client