Chicago Fraud Defense Attorney
Free Case Consultations: Call (888) 412-3741
Most fraud offenses violate both state and federal laws and therefore may
result in either state or
federal charges. Simply put, the greater the fraud, the more likely the charges will be
filed in federal court.
Fraud charges encompass a wide range of conduct and often include related
crimes such as
identify theft,
embezzlement, and
cybercrimes. In fraud cases, the principal issue usually is whether the government
can prove that you had the intent to lie or deceive. Common fraud charges
include health care fraud, insurance fraud, and mail & wire fraud.
Because the crimes overlap, they are often charged together.
Health Care Fraud Charges
Health care fraud is increasingly common. A typical scenario is the medical
provider that obtains reimbursements from insurers for which the provider
knows it is not entitled. For example, the medical provider may file claims
for services it never performed, file multiple claims for the same service,
or file claims for services not covered by the insurer's policy. Health
care fraud also includes providing kickbacks for patient referrals.
Insurance Fraud Charges
Insurance fraud occurs when one knowingly deceives an insurance company
to obtain reimbursements for which he or she is not entitled. Common examples
of insurance fraud include purposely destroying insured property or greatly
exaggerating an injury.
Mail & Wire Fraud Charges
Mail and wire fraud are two of the most commonly charged federal crimes.
Mail fraud applies to any scheme to defraud where a person uses the United
State Postal Service or an interstate mail carrier. Wire fraud applies
to any scheme to defraud where a person uses a phone or electronic communication
device –
e.g., a computer. Put simply, any fraud that is not committed entirely in
person can be charged as mail fraud, wire fraud, or both.
Alternatives to Prison
A prison sentence may be avoided depending on the extent of the fraud and
the value of the defrauded property. Possible alternatives to incarceration
include a sentence of probation, paying restitution and fines, completing
significant amounts of community service, and receiving treatment for
underlying issues where appropriate.
Contact Thomas C. Hallock if you need a skilled and committed fraud defense attorney in Chicago.
Your
first consultation is free. Call (888) 412-3741.