Savannah White Collar Crime Defense Attorneys

Comprehensive Legal Defense in Georgia's Courts

Fraud crimes are prosecuted in criminal courts in Georgia, although some cases may be tried in federal court. In addition to the penalties imposed by a criminal court upon conviction, the victim may sue the perpetrator of fraud in civil court and be awarded monetary damages. 

There are a wide range of fraud crimes, each of which carries specific penalties. The decision on whether the case is heard at the state or federal level depends on several different factors. For example, if there was any banking institution involved, the crime would fall under federal jurisdiction. 

For advice that is specific to your situation, contact us at (912) 417-5008 for a free consultation or reach out here online. Get aggressive legal protection on your side immediately.

Common Types of White Collar Crimes in Savannah

Some common types of fraud crimes include:

• Identity theft
• Email, internet, or telephone scams that trick people into providing bank account information and other sensitive information
• Credit card fraud
• Insurance Fraud
• Healthcare fraud

Although the methods vary with the type of fraud, the overall goal is to use a lie or deception to obtain money or other assets. Fraud crimes involve factors such as:

• An individual misrepresenting the truth
• Knowingly providing inaccurate information
• Intent to get a person to believe the lie
• A loss suffered by the victim as a result of the deception

The first step in any criminal investigation for fraud is for a defendant to seek legal protection. Only one person stands between you and the attacks levied against you by the prosecution, and that is your criminal defense lawyer.

Take the steps you need and call Schneider Lerch, LLC before your case moves any further through the system, as our early defense strategies could be vital to the outcome of your charges.  Our Savannah fraud attorneys can be reached by calling (912) 417-5008 or through the use of our online contact form.

Severe Consequences of Fraud Convictions in Savannah

If you are currently accused of fraud, the consequences you could face if you are convicted will be extremely harsh, including prison time, expensive fines, and restitution. If law enforcement believes you were operating as part of a large-scale fraud operation you can expect a longer prison term, and you could be subject to property forfeiture as well as fines, essentially losing everything, including your freedom.

The penalty for a fraud conviction ultimately depends on several factors, including whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony, the value of the property, and any prior convictions. Penalties generally involve:

• A prison sentence
• Fines
• Restitution to the victim

There are also lasting consequences for your life and reputation, limited opportunities for employment, and other issues that follow a defendant around after their sentence has been served. 

Generally, a first-time offense will have a lesser penalty than when the defendant has been convicted of a fraud crime in the past. In cases of credit card fraud, when a card has been obtained with false information, or another party's credit card used fraudulently, the penalties imposed will be based upon the value of the items, goods or services purchased illegally.

This is a form of theft crime, and is punished as such, although many fraud cases will include additional charges. In cases related to unemployment insurance fraud, the penalties imposed could include losing your ability to get UI in the future, jail, or prison time, as well as losing your access to tax refunds you may be due. The penalties for mortgage fraud were increased in 2005, and this is now a felony offense.

Some realtors and mortgage companies face a difficult legal problem, as a conviction can lead to a term of incarceration in state prison as long as 20 years, and fines of $25,000 or higher. No matter what form of fraud you are accused of, or are currently under investigation for, our team is ready to move into action for you. 

With a Savannah criminal defense lawyer from our firm working with you can greatly increase your chances of avoiding conviction. 

Receive a Free Assessment of Your Fraud Charges

Our Savannah fraud crimes lawyers will begin to prepare your defense strategy by listening to your story and the facts of the case. We investigate the details of your case, evaluate the evidence, and explain your options.

We work with you to develop an effective defense strategy for fraud charges, such as a lack of evidence, an act that was unintentional, the owner granting you permission, and other possible strategies to preserve your freedom.

Call Schneider Lerch, LLC at (912) 417-5008 or contact us online today and schedule a free consultation--you have nothing to lose and your freedom to protect.