Fairfax Fraud Lawyer

In simple terms, Fraud involves misleading others for financial gain. If you have been charged with fraud, contact our expert Fairfax fraud lawyer to discuss criminal defense strategies.

read important information related to penalties of fraud and how to defend in court.

What Constitutes as Fraud?

It is typically categorized as an offense that can be prosecuted at either state or federal level, depending on the specifics of a certain case.

While there are many types of criminally fraudulent activities, most of the charges in these cases are of misrepresentation to the other party involved. 

It commonly occurs when someone gains something of value, money, or any property, from a victim knowingly making a misrepresentation of a material fact.

Typically, in a fraud case, the prosecution has the burden to prove several elements beyond a reasonable doubt to have you convicted.

Elements of Fraud in Virginia

Typically, in a fraud case, the prosecution has the burden to prove several elements beyond a reasonable doubt to have you convicted.

The following are the elements necessary to find someone guilty of fraud. 

1. Misrepresentation of a material fact.
2. Knowledge on the part of the accused that they were misrepresenting the fact.
3. The misrepresentation made, purposefully, was to have the victim rely on it. 
4. The victim believed the misrepresentation and relied upon it to their detriment.
5. As a result of the misrepresentation, the victim suffered damages.

The prosecution must prove all the elements stated above to convict someone for fraud.

Therefore, in the event you or a loved one are facing such an investigation or charge, it is encouraged to contact an experienced Fairfax Fraud Lawyer who can provide appropriate counsel and guidance.

Types of Fraud in Fairfax

According to the Virginia Fraud Law section 18.2.186, Chapter 6 of the Virginia Code, there are various types of crimes involving fraud.

Several of these offenses overlap, so it is quite possible to get charged with more fraud crimes for the same incident. The following are the most common types of criminal fraud in Fairfax:

• Forgery
• Money Laundering
• Counterfeiting 
• Credit card fraud 
• Identity theft
• Pretenses
• Impersonating law enforcement

Penalties for Fraud in Fairfax

A fraud offense is a crime that does not involve violence. Nevertheless, it is still a serious crime.

Regardless of whether you are facing a conviction for misdemeanor fraud or a felony offense, the consequences will be unpleasant. 

Felonies are more serious crimes as compared to misdemeanors.

These crimes can have significant punishments that can range from minor fines starting at $2500 to more harsh penalties such as imprisonment for 20 years maximum.

In the case of a fraud misdemeanor, the possible jail term is less than one year and sometimes might even result in no jail time at all. On the other hand, the penalty for a felony conviction may lead to life imprisonment.

In Virginia, felonies are separated into different levels of classes, starting from Class 1 to Class 6, with Class 1 felonies being the most serious out of all.

Such felony charges can lead to a permanent criminal record and lengthy prison sentences.

Why Should You Hire a Fairfax Fraud Lawyer?

Fraud is a serious offense and one that may have severe penalties if convicted.

The prosecutors in Fairfax will take any fraud offense seriously and impose penalties such as heavy fines or increasing years to your prison time.

It is important to understand your rights and the options you may have at the time of your charge by contacting an experienced Fairfax Fraud Lawyer.

The lawyers here at American Lawyers Group have years of experience successfully handling thousands of cases on behalf of clients and can provide you with the efficient legal representation that you need.