Indio Fraud Crimes Lawyer

Facing Fraud Charges in Palm Desert?

Are you under investigation for fraud allegations? Have you already been arrested? The Law Offices of Anastacio De La Cruz is here to defend your rights and freedom. Our Indio fraud crimes attorney has extensive legal experience and has obtained favorable outcomes for past clients, including getting charges reduced or dismissed.

We provide effective counsel for various fraud-related offenses, including:

• Identity fraud
• Forgery
• Credit card fraud
• Loan fraud
• Employment fraud
• Falsification of documents
• Tax fraud
• Check fraud
• Mail fraud
• Internet fraud
• Insurance fraud
• Bankruptcy fraud
• Government fraud
• Welfare fraud

To find out how we can help fight your charges, call (760) 610-0606 or contact us online today.

When Does Fraud Occur?

In California, fraud occurs when an individual or business uses deceit or dishonest means for the purpose of depriving someone else of their money, property, or rights.

There are four main types of fraud, which include:

• Intentional fraud: using deceit or false facts to convince the victim to rely on untrue information
• Promissory fraud: inducing a person to engage in a transaction by making a promise that they never intend to, or does, fulfill
• Concealment fraud: failing to disclose important information to another party who has the right to full disclosure
• Negligent misrepresentation: telling another person that something is true, even though the defrauder has no reasonable grounds of believing the representation was accurate when they made it

A conviction for fraud is not only dependent on the presence of fraudulent actions; it is also necessary that the victim reasonably relied on the false information and thereby suffered some form of harm.

What a Fraud Conviction Could Mean for You

In California, fraud offenses can be prosecuted as either misdemeanors or felonies. The potential penalties for a conviction depend on several factors, including what type of fraud was committed, the extent of the damages, and your criminal history. Some fraud crimes are treated as theft offenses in that the penalty is determined by the value of the money or property you allegedly obtained.

If convicted for a misdemeanor, you could face up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine of $1,000. You might also be put on probation, be required to perform community service, or be ordered to pay restitution to the victim. Though no one likes the sound of any of these penalties, the punishments for felonies are even harsher. Depending on the circumstances, a felony could result in up to $10,000 in fines and/or in a lengthy prison sentence.

In addition to these punishments, you could face several collateral consequences for a fraud conviction, including:

• A mark on your criminal record
• Ineligibility for certain professional licenses
• Inability to get into a university or obtain federal financial aid
• Impact on your career and future employment opportunities
• Loss of firearm ownership rights
• Loss of child custody rights
• Impact on your immigration status