Connecticut Fraud Lawyer
If you are facing fraud charges, you should be aware that a conviction of this white-collar crime could have very serious consequences. A fraud conviction may result in a permanent felony record that can affect your life long after you serve your jail sentence or pay any court-ordered fines. A felony conviction will affect your ability to find employment, get credit, or obtain housing for the rest of your life.
While there are many different crimes that fall into the category of fraud, this part of the law relies strongly on legal precedent in Connecticut, making the assistance of an experienced theft attorney invaluable when defending yourself against these charges. Our Stamford fraud lawyers have defended against many different types of fraud, at both the state and federal level, and are ready to litigate aggressively on your behalf.
Elements of Fraud
In order to obtain a conviction on fraud charges, the prosecution must prove every legal element of the claim against a person. This will involve presenting evidence and making legal arguments to the judge.
The prosecution must prove that the individual either lied or misstated some important fact, which induced another person to enter into a fraudulent transaction for their gain. There are many ways to defend against these types of charges.
With the help of an experienced fraud attorney in Stamford, it is possible to craft a defense strategy based on the specific circumstances of each case. With such severe penalties on the line if convicted, it is well worth investing in legal assistance to give oneself the best chance of successfully defending against the charges being faced.
Connecticut Laws Regarding Fraud
Fraud is a category of white-collar crime that can include any of the following criminal acts:
- Embezzlement
- Identity Theft
- Money Laundering
- Ponzi Schemes
- Mortgage Fraud
- Insurance Fraud
- Mail/Wire Fraud
- Credit Card Fraud
In Connecticut, charges of fraud are typically brought as a common law claim, although certain statutes exist that deal with specific types of fraud, such as insurance fraud. The help of an experienced lawyer is especially important when facing a common law cause of action, as the law that will determine the outcome of these cases will often be based on legal precedent, or the outcomes of similar prior cases. A fraudulent transaction is typically defined as one that was induced by either dishonest or deceptive acts, or by willful misrepresentation, for monetary gain. Many times, fraud cases brought at the state level in Connecticut also involve federal charges.
In addition to fraud charges brought under state common law, many fraud cases also involve out-of-state elements. When fraudulently induced transactions take place involving the use of mail, telephone, or internet connections between states, they may constitute the federal offense of mail and wire fraud. Federal mail and wire fraud is a serious felony offense. If convicted, offenders can face fines of up to $250,000, jail time of at least five years, or both making it important a Stamford fraud lawyer is contacted as soon as posisble.
In addition to these harsh penalties, a fraud conviction typically also involves the payment of restitution. An order of restitution along with a conviction will require the offender to pay back any money that was fraudulently obtained to its rightful owners. Failure to make any required payments as ordered by the court, sometimes over the course of many years, can result in additional criminal charges.
Contact A Stamford Fraud Attorney Today
Many people facing fraud charges feel helpless or overwhelmed to defend themselves, especially in cases that involve complex federal elements. Regardless of what evidence the prosecution may have collected against you, there are always ways to defend your legal rights.
Our Stamford fraud attorneys understand that many different elements and players often contribute to any given fraud charge, and will help you determine the best defense strategy for you. Contact an attorney to discuss your case today!