Fraud Lawyer in North Kansas City, MO. Fraud charges aren’t something you want to handle on your own. These laws are complex, and these cases can be very convoluted. Fighting these charges effectively is a tall order, and to defend against them, you need to call an accomplished North Kansas City, MO, criminal defense lawyer to get help.
When you feel outmatched against the prosecution, there’s one law firm prepared to stand by your side: Combs Waterkotte. Our fraud defense lawyers are dedicated to fighting for our clients’ rights and want to help you find the best outcome for your unique situation. You can get assistance at any time by calling (314) 900-HELP or using our online contact form.
Don’t wait until the prosecution has already built a case against you. Get protection from legal professionals.
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North Kansas City, MO, Fraud Lawyer: Page Summary
On this page, you can read about:
- What sets fraud charges apart from other criminal accusations
- Things that your North Kansas City, MO, fraud lawyer will do to set your case up for success;
- The types of charges that fall under the ‘fraud’ category in North Kansas City, MO;
- What to do if someone accuses you of fraud;
- What sets Combs Waterkotte apart as leading fraud lawyers in North Kansas City, MO;
- 5 strong defenses that our lawyers use in fraud cases; and
- Where to get started with your North Kansas City, MO, fraud defense today.
Legal Videos
The Complete Guide to Criminal Defense in Missouri
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Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs discusses how he negotiates the most favorable plea bargaining deals for his clients. You can read a transcript of the interview below.
Can Criminal Charges Be Dropped?
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St. Louis defense attorney Chris Combs explains how a private defense lawyer can offer the resources and attention to detail that many public defenders don't have time for. You can read a …
The Complete Guide to Criminal Defense in Missouri
The Complete Guide to Criminal Defense in Missouri. Attorneys Christopher Combs, Matthew Brown, and Martell Turner from Combs Waterkotte discuss everything you need to know about Missouri criminal …
Are Private Attorneys Better Than Public Defenders?
Are Private Attorneys Better Than Public Defenders? Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs talks about the differences in a defendant's experience when working with a public defender vs. a …
What Is the Process For Getting Bail in Missouri?
What Is the Process For Getting Bail in Missouri? If you've been arrested, the first thing you want to do is get out of jail and get back home. Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs …
How Does Plea Bargaining Work?
Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs discusses how he negotiates the most favorable plea bargaining deals for his clients. You can read a transcript of the interview below.
Can Criminal Charges Be Dropped?
Can your criminal case get dismissed? How can your defense attorney get your case dismissed? Missouri criminal defense attorney Chris Combs discusses what needs to happen to have your charges …
Public Defender Caseloads Are High. Can I Trust One With My Case?
St. Louis defense attorney Chris Combs explains how a private defense lawyer can offer the resources and attention to detail that many public defenders don't have time for. You can read a …
What Makes a Crime ‘Fraud’ in North Kansas City, MO?
If you’re accused of fraud, the state is alleging that you used lies to trick someone into giving you something of value. This is typically a type of white-collar crime, but it doesn’t always occur in an office setting. This type of dispute can arise from professional or personal relationships.
When trying to determine if an alleged crime counts as “fraud,” look for the following:
- A lie (by commission or omission) told on purpose
- The act is done in order to gain something
- The gain comes at the expense of someone else
One example is a charity fraud. In this, a person reaches out pretending to represent a charitable organization, but instead keeps the money for themselves.
Intention plays a key role in fraud allegations. Without intent to defraud someone, an action is generally not considered fraud. A failed adoption can fall into either category: Adoption fraud is a process where someone exploits a family for money without any intention to help them adopt a child. But if someone took money from a family with the intention of helping them adopt a child, and something went wrong preventing it from being completed, it would not qualify as fraud.
How a Fraud Lawyer Defends You Against Criminal Charges
It can be complicated and confusing to try and make it through the legal process on your own. A fraud lawyer can help you find your way. Don’t wait until charges are filed; while you wait, the prosecution is building the case against you.
You can expect this from your criminal defense attorney:
- Breakdown of the Case – There are many different fraud charges in North Kansas City, MO, and the law isn’t always clear on its definitions. Your lawyer can break it down for you.
- Advice During Questioning – It’s possible that you’ll find yourself wanted for questioning because of an alleged violation. Your lawyer can help you navigate police tactics and preserve your freedom.
- Defensive Investigation – Investigation isn’t just for the state: A leading criminal defense firm will offer investigative services to find exculpatory evidence.
- Help Dealing With the Public – Unfortunately, cases don’t always end in the courtroom. Your attorney can give you guidance on how to handle interactions with the public.
- Negotiating Skills – Most criminal cases end in a plea bargain. Your attorney can help you negotiate a favorable one.
- Court Representation – Trials can be one of the most difficult situations for a person to go through. Your lawyer will help guide you through, from opening arguments to the verdict (or sentencing, if needed).
Combs Waterkotte is ready to take your case in North Kansas City, MO. Whatever fraud charge you’re facing, we have the experience and strength to defend you.
Credit Card Fraud
North Kansas City, MO, credit card fraud cases typically fall into one of two categories, depending on the statute in question. § 570.130 RSMo is the Missouri state statute that mostly covers the illegal use of a credit card, depending on whether or not you had permission to use it. It specifically states that forged, stolen, revoked, and cancelled cards cannot be used. It also makes it a crime to use a credit card (regardless of its legitimacy) to pay property taxes then cancel it without a good reason. Any of these actions is typically a class A misdemeanor, but this can be increased to a class E felony if $750 or more was used in a 30-day period.
The second credit card fraud statute in Missouri is § 570.135 RSMo. This makes it illegal to lie in order to get a credit/debit card, or use one that you know was obtained fraudulently. This offense is also a class A misdemeanor.
It’s possible for a bank fraud case to involve both of the above statutes. It’s important to work with a lawyer who can dissect both and create a comprehensive defense.
Bank Fraud
Bank fraud can be closely related to credit card fraud, and in some cases is even covered by the same statues (for example, if there was a debit card involved). However, bank fraud is also covered by its own broad statute.
This type of fraud is primarily covered by § 570.148 RSMo. This makes it a crime to lie to a bank (or other financial institution) to withdraw money that doesn’t belong to you. If the amount taken was less than $500, it is a class B misdemeanor. If it’s more than that, convictions can range from a class E felony to a class B felony, depending on the alleged offender’s mindset.
Identity Theft
Identity theft is often charged alongside other fraud crimes. For example, identity theft can be tied to immigration fraud in cases where one person allegedly stole someone’s passport and impersonated that person in order to enter the country.
In Missouri, § 570.223 RSMo defines identity theft as intentionally taking or using someone else’s identifying information in order to commit another act of fraud. Normally, this means taking money, goods, or services illegally. Committing identity theft at all is a class B misdemeanor, but this can be elevated up to a class B felony depending on how much was taken.
Tax Fraud
Sometimes, an honest mistake is enough to be accused of Tax fraud. Both the IRS and the Missouri Department of Revenue treat these charges harshly, and you could face years in prison and/or thousands of dollars in fines after a conviction.
Penalties can vary depending on what specific statute you’re accused of violating, and whether it’s charged at the state or federal level. Taking individual tax evasion as an example, a state charge can result in a 5 year prison sentence and a $10,000 fine, while a federal charge can result in a 5 year prison sentence and a $100,000 fine.
Wire Fraud
Wire fraud is a federal crime rather than a state crime. Federal charges are particularly challenging to fight because federal prosecutors have extensive resources, and government investigations often go on for months before charges are filed. It’s critical to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney to fight these charges.
Sometimes, a wire fraud scheme can arise out of a legitimate transaction. For example, if a person was looking to make a down payment on a house, and a hacker sent a false money request pretending to work for the realtor, the hacker could be charged with wire fraud.
Securities Fraud
Securities fraud is split across a few different statutes in Missouri, most notably: § 575.120 RSMo, which defines it as lying to someone about an investment in order to take their money away, and § 409.5-508 RSMo which defines the penalties.
These accusations have serious consequences in both the legal and personal realms. If convicted, you could face up to ten years in prison and $1 million in fines, and be up against career-ending restrictions once you’re released.
Other Fraud Charges Our Lawyers Defend in North Kansas City, MO
Combs Waterkotte is prepared to build your defense in North Kansas City, MO, whatever you’ve been accused of. Here are some more common charges we can help you with:
- Welfare Fraud
- Medicare/Medicaid Fraud
- Mortgage Fraud
- Immigration Fraud
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How to Choose a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Charged with a crime? The lawyer you hire matters. Combs Waterkotte, recognized for top-tier criminal defense in Missouri and Illinois, created this guide to help you find the right attorney. Learn what to look for, key questions to ask, and red flags to avoid.
5 Steps to Take After Being Accused of Fraud in North Kansas City, MO
As soon as you’re accused of fraud, it’s important to take proper steps to protect yourself. We recommend the following:
- Stay Silent in Interviews – All you have to do is say “I am invoking my right to remain silent and would like to speak with my lawyer.”
- Get a Lawyer – You will likely be given the opportunity to make phone calls after an arrest. Make sure your criminal defense attorney is the first one.
- Request Release From Jail – You’ll likely be given an opportunity to post bail. This is almost always a good idea, as it secures your freedom while your case progresses.
- Review Any Relevant Evidence – Avoiding a not guilty verdict in a fraud case can come down to who has the strongest evidence. Gather any records you have, and avoid taking any actions that could look like tampering.
- Tell Your Attorney Your Side of the Story – It’s your lawyer’s job to present the best defense possible for your case, and build a strategy based on your story.
If you’ve just been charged with fraud, you probably don’t know where to go. But Combs Waterkotte is prepared to fight for your rights, from the first day you call until the final verdict. We won’t give up until you get the justice you deserve.
Why Choose Combs Waterkotte As Your North Kansas City, MO, Fraud Defense Lawyers
You deserve a high-quality defense. Combs Waterkotte can give you that. Our team understands how the prosecution builds its case against you, and will look for weaknesses to exploit.
We are dedicated to our clients, and take pride in offering comprehensive legal services to North Kansas City:
- We have over 500 five-star reviews.
- We take the time to listen to you.
- We make quality defense affordable.
- We have representatives ready for your call during evenings and weekends, because arrests can happen outside of regular business hours.
Our clients are our motivation to fight in court – reach out today to start your defense right away.
Fraud Defenses Your Lawyer Should Consider
We take the time to listen to your story, investigate and learn about your case, and then craft a defense based on what will work best for you. There are many overarching strategies to draw from, and a fraud lawyer in North Kansas City, MO, will take the time to pick the right one for you.
Here are five possible strategies we may draw from:
- Lack of Knowledge – This is applicable in cases where the alleged offender provided false information to someone without knowing it was false at the time.
- Immaterial (Non-Fraudulent) False Statement – For a deception to count as fraud, it must have been significant enough to influence someone’s decision. Sometimes, a white lie isn’t enough for a conviction.
- Lack of Victim Reliance – In some cases, a false statement does not reach the level of fraud, notably when the alleged victim wasn’t influenced by it. If they made their decision for entirely other reasons, the law does not consider it to be fraud.
- Evidentiary Issues – If the state violated your rights or chain of custody while gathering evidence, we can fight to have it suppressed.
- Wrong Person Accused – It’s possible that the victim really did experience fraud, but it was at someone else’s hand.
Get Help from North Kansas City, MO’s Leading Fraud Lawyer
Combs Waterkotte is determined to deliver a positive outcome for clients, no matter what their situation is. We will look at your case, evaluate its unique circumstances, and give you honest advice on what is achievable for your defense.
Speak with a fraud lawyer in North Kansas City, MO, at any time at (314) 900-HELP or contact our firm online to set up a private conversation with an attorney.
