Waco Fraud Lawyer

Fraud is a serious accusation. It can occur in various ways, from misusing resources to misrepresenting key financial information that causes you to obtain money or resources from others. Fraud can also include unemployment scams, imposter scams, and more.

If you are criminally convicted of fraud, it can create limitations that can follow you for the rest of your life. A Waco fraud lawyer could help build a comprehensive defense that will help protect your finances, freedom, and future. Call The Greening Law Group today to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney.

Classes of Consequences for Fraud Charges

Fraud conviction can lead to severe consequences, both criminally and personally. No matter what type of fraud you are charged with, it can interfere with your future employment options, prevent you from getting housing, and make your private life more difficult.

In addition, Texas law institutes stringent penalties for fraud. The type of penalty depends on the fraud charge and the amount of money involved.

Class C: Less than $100 Involved

For a Class C misdemeanor, you can face up to a $500 fine.

Class B: $100-$750

A Class B misdemeanor may carry up to 180 days in jail.

Class A: $750-$2,500

For a Class A fraud, you can face up to one year in jail.

State Jail: $2,500-$30,000

Depending on the type of offense, a state jail-level fraud can result in between 180 days and 2 years in state jail.

Third Degree Felony: $30,000-$150,000

A third-degree offense can carry between two and 10 years in prison.

Second Degree Fraud: $150,000-$300,000

Second-degree felony offenses can mean between two and 20 years in prison.

First Degree Felony: More than $300,000

First-degree felonies typically carry the most severe penalties, including up to a 99-year or life sentence. Depending on the severity, they may result in five years or more in prison.

Potential Defenses for Fraud Charges

If you find yourself faced with fraud charges, having a Waco fraud lawyer on your side could prove crucial. Your defense attorney will focus on protecting your freedoms and future as much as possible.

A seasoned lawyer could also assist in determining the proper defense for your situation. Common fraud defenses include the following:

• Lack of intent: You did not deliberately deceive or misguide the victim of fraud;
• Good faith: You acted in good faith, believing that you did not misrepresent information;
• Duress: Someone else forced or heavily pressured you to commit fraudulent acts;
• Mistaken identity: Someone else committed the act of fraud, and you were mistaken for them; or
• Entrapment: Law enforcement induced you to commit fraud.

Your attorney will review the situation, including the evidence against you, and help you develop a comprehensive defense. Sometimes, a lawyer could help you plead guilty to lesser charges or reduce your sentence.

Get in Touch With a Waco Fraud Defense Attorney Today

When you find yourself dealing with fraud charges, you need a legal team who knows their stuff to fight your case.

At The Greening Law Group, we believe in winning in and out of the courtroom. Reach out to our firm’s Waco fraud lawyers to discuss your next steps and the potential for a positive outcome.