Bakersfield Fraud Lawyer

Defending Against Fraud Charges in California

If you or someone you know is facing fraud charges in California, you need an experienced attorney to safeguard your rights and defend your case. At Hennessy Law Group, our Bakersfield fraud attorneys are here to provide you with the experienced legal counsel and representation you need during this difficult time.

Call Hennessy Law Group today at (661) 485-5602 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our fraud attorney in Bakersfield.

What is Fraud?

Fraud is considered a serious criminal offense that involves intentional deception, misrepresentation, or concealment of information for the pursuit of financial gain or to cause another individual to suffer a financial loss. In California and throughout the United States, fraud can take many forms, including:

• Identity Theft: Illegally using someone else's info, like Social Security numbers or credit card details, for financial gain.
• Insurance Fraud: Making false claims or exaggerating losses to obtain insurance benefits.
• Mortgage Fraud: Deceptive practices related to mortgage loans, such as providing false information to secure a mortgage.
• Securities Fraud: Engaging in fraudulent activities in the stock market or other investment schemes.
• Credit Card Fraud: Unauthorized use of another person's credit card for financial gain.
• Mail and Wire Fraud: Using the mail or electronic communications to commit fraud, such as online scams or phishing schemes.
• Bank Fraud: Deceptive practices related to banking transactions, including check fraud or loan fraud.
• Healthcare Fraud: False billing, prescription fraud, or other illegal activities in the healthcare industry.

What are the Penalties for Fraud in California?

The penalties for fraud in California can vary depending on the specific type of fraud and the amount of financial loss involved. In general, fraud convictions can result in severe consequences, which may include:

• Criminal Penalties: Individuals convicted of fraud can face fines, probation, restitution to victims, and even imprisonment.
• Civil Penalties: In addition to criminal penalties, individuals liable for fraud may also face civil lawsuits from victims seeking monetary damages.
• Professional Consequences: A fraud conviction can have lasting professional consequences, including loss of professional licenses and damage to one's reputation.
• Immigration Consequences: Non-U.S. citizens convicted of fraud may face deportation or other immigration-related consequences.
• Loss of Rights: Convictions for certain types of fraud can result in the loss of certain civil rights, such as the right to vote or own firearms.

Defenses Against Fraud Charges

Some common defenses against fraud charges may include:

• Lack of Intent: Fraud charges typically require proof of intent to deceive. If it can be shown that there was no intention to defraud, this can be a strong defense.
• Mistaken Identity: If you were mistakenly recognized as the perpetrator, our Bakersfield fraud attorney can gather evidence to prove your innocence.
• Insufficient Evidence: Challenging the prosecution's evidence and demonstrating that it is insufficient to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Entrapment: If law enforcement officers used entrapment techniques to induce you to commit fraud, this may serve as a valid defense.
• Procedural Errors: Identifying errors or violations of your rights in the investigative or legal process.