If you are facing an accusation of fraud, you may find yourself feeling fearful of what the future holds. This fear can be due to the uncertainty of how this accusation may affect your reputation and can even, at times, extend to the concern over the public’s perception of the family following such an accusation. You have the right to be represented by an experienced and competent fraud defense lawyer, such as Adam Stout, who can help you effectively and promptly defend your character when you face a fraud offense.
What Is Considered Fraud In The State Of Florida?
Per Florida Statute 817.034, a “Scheme to Defraud” is defined as a person who:
1) engages in a systematic, ongoing course of conduct; 2) with the intent to defraud one or more persons or obtain property; 3) by false or fraudulent pretenses, representations, or promises, or willful misrepresentations of a future act.
In short, a fraud offense requires that an individual take clear action against a person or property with clear fraudulent intent.
What Are Examples Of A Fraud Offense?
There are many fraud offenses for which an individual may be accused, including, but not limited to:
- Credit Card Fraud
- Healthcare Fraud
- Identify Theft
What Are The Penalties For A Fraud Offense?
Depending on the type of fraud offense, the penalties can range from fines and imprisonment to the loss of rights, such as bearing arms, voting, and serving on a jury. For example, under the “Scheme to Defraud,” Florida law outlines two primary categories: 1) Organized Fraud and 2) Communications Fraud.
In the case of organized fraud, if the aggregate value of the amount of property obtained is $50,000 or more, the offense is punishable as a first-degree felony and up to 30 years in prison.
Beyond the legal penalties, the long-lasting personal and professional impact on one’s career reputation may be devastating. Hiring an experienced fraud attorney, such as Adam Stout with Stout Defense, P.A., is of vital importance when facing this type of accusation.