Fraud Lawyer in Smithville, MO. Fraud isn’t a single criminal charge. It’s a category of alleged offenses that vary in scope, but are always complex. Fighting these charges effectively is a tall order, and to protect yourself against them, you need to call an accomplished Smithville, MO, criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
If you need help fighting these charges in Smithville, MO, you need Combs Waterkotte. Our firm is built on our pride in giving every client a high-quality defense, and we will not rest until you get the justice you deserve. Call us at (314) 900-HELP or sent us a note online today to get started.
While you’re waiting, the odds are stacking against you. When you isolated against the state, we’re here to help.
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Smithville, MO, Fraud Lawyer: Page Summary
On this page, we will go over:
- What types of crime accusations count as fraud
- Things that your Smithville, MO, fraud lawyer will do to set your case up for success;
- Example offenses that are often labelled as ‘fraud’ in Smithville, MO;
- Your next steps after being accused of fraud;
- How Combs Waterkotte sets itself apart in fraud cases;
- Different fraud charge defense strategies that you should discuss with your lawyer; and
- How to contact our Smithville, MO, fraud attorneys today.
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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 Sets Fraud Charges Apart From Other Accusations in Smithville, MO?
Fraud crimes are white-collar crime cases where someone is accused of cheating another person by lying to them. It often consists of a person misrepresenting themselves in order to gain something, often for a financial benefit.
The three main elements that make a crime “fraud” are:
- An intentional act of deception
- The act is done in order to gain something
- This benefit directly hurts another person
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.
It is not fraud if you were mistaken about something and unintentionally deceived someone as a result. A vacation fraud is an interesting example: A common example of this fraud would be a person booking a premium vacation package, but finding an inferior room once they arrive. If the proper accommodations were never there to begin with, that would be fraud. But if a plumbing problem damaged the original room and rendered it inoperable, that would not count as fraud.
How a Fraud Lawyer Defends You Against Criminal Charges
Your fraud lawyer will be by your side from the first phone call, defending your rights and fighting for your freedom. 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 – Some Missouri statutes are ambiguous and hard to understand. Fraud is no exception, but your attorney can break it down for you.
- Guidance Through Interviews – On your own, a police interrogation can be intimidating. Working with a lawyer gives you professional protection.
- Defensive Investigation – Investigation isn’t just for the state: A leading criminal defense firm will offer investigative services to find exculpatory evidence.
- Guidance for Your Reputation – Even when the legal issues are under control, your reputation might need some help. A fraud lawyer can help you handle interactions with the press and give you advice on how to move forward with your life.
- Relationships in Court – Negotiation is a key part of criminal defense. You need a lawyer who knows how to work with the district attorney.
- Trial-Ready Defense – If your case reaches trial, your lawyer will present your case before a jury to show reasonable doubt. And if it comes to sentencing, they will advocate for leniency.
On your own, you’re in a tough spot against the Smithville, MO, prosecutor. With Combs Waterkotte at your side, you have a team that’s strong, experienced, and cares about your well-being.
Credit Card Fraud
Credit card fraud is covered by two different statutes. The first is § 570.130 RSMo. This makes it illegal to use a credit or debit card if it’s not yours, if it’s been cancelled, or to pay property taxes with it and then cancel the payment. Normally, a conviction is a class A misdemeanor, but if the total value is more than $750 within 30 days, it becomes a class E felony.
But even if you didn’t misuse a credit card, you can still be accused of credit card fraud. This is covered under § 570.135 RSMo, which makes it a crime to apply for a credit card with false information or to use another person’s ID without authorization. This charge is also punished as a class A misdemeanor..
Bank Fraud
Smithville, MO bank fraud cases can vary widely in scope, but all have to do with lying to a financial institution in some form or another.
§ 570.148 RSMo covers the main aspects of bank fraud, which involves tricking a financial institution into giving you someone else’s money. These allegations can often be combined with other alleged violations; for example, § 570.090 RSMo makes it illegal to forge or alter a check, which is often an aspect of bank fraud.
Identity Theft
Identity theft is against the law in and of itself, but is more likely to be a part of a greater alleged scheme, and can be just one of multiple charges in these cases. 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.
Identity theft, according to § 570.223 RSMo, can range anywhere from a class B misdemeanor to a class B felony, depending on the value involved and the individual’s prior history.
Wire Fraud
Wire fraud has a very broad definition in the United States. It essentially refers to any fraud that is committed using electronic communication, like the internet. Unlike other fraud charges, this is usually prosecuted at the federal level because the alleged offense often crosses state lines.
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 cases can be complex due to the layers of financial records, communications, and relevant laws. Sometimes, these cases can be very clear, such as creating false financial data. Other times, it can be tougher to accurately classify, such as a person making allegedly misleading statements that influence investor behavior.
Breaking these laws can not only result in a prison sentence, but also in serious professional sanctions. 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.
More Common Fraud Charges in Smithville, MO, That We Can Help Fight
Combs Waterkotte is Missouri’s leading fraud defense law firm, and is prepared to take your case in Smithville, MO. 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 Smithville, MO
Fraud accusations are very serious, and if you’re facing any, you need to know your next steps. You’ll need to contact a fraud lawyer as soon as possible, but in the meantime, don’t forget the following:
- Plead the Fifth – When you plead the fifth, be respectful but firm, then ask to see a lawyer.
- Get a Lawyer – The sooner you bring in your lawyer, the more time they’ll have to develop a strong legal defense.
- Secure Bail – Posting bail does more than give you a more comfortable place to wait for your trial: It lets you be an active participant in building your defense.
- 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.
- Work With Your Lawyer to Develop a Defensive Strategy – Your defense attorney will listen to your story, discuss defense strategies, and work with you to create a strong case in your favor.
Going to trial is always a risk. But a team of expert fraud defense lawyers can make a major difference in optimizing your outcome. Combs Waterkotte can offer you that.
Set Your Case Up for a Positive Outcome: Contact Combs Waterkotte
At Combs Waterkotte, we believe that a proper defense starts with the person at the center of it: You. We’ve helped over thousands of clients make it through the most difficult time in their lives, and bring a client centered approach to every case.
We are dedicated to our clients, and take pride in offering comprehensive legal services to Smithville:
- We have over 500 five-star reviews.
- We treat every client with individualized care.
- We offer flexible payment plans.
- We’re available 24/7 if you need anything related to your case.
We’re prepared to take on everyone from the local prosecutor to the United States government – contact us now to connect with an attorney.
5 Possible Fraud Charge Defenses
The defensive strategy your Smithville, MO, fraud attorney uses can make all the difference in your case’s outcome. We don’t take strategy lightly – we collaborate with you to find the best option.
Here are five possible strategies we may draw from:
- No Intent to Defraud – Fraud charges in Missouri normally require intent to be found guilty. If you had no ill intentions, we can use this as a defense.
- Immaterial (Non-Fraudulent) False Statement – While lying is generally considered immoral, it’s not always illegal. The prosecution has to prove that your statements reached the level of fraud, while we can argue that they were insubstantial.
- Lack of Victim Reliance – To be fraud, your statement must have impacted the alleged victim’s decision. If they made their decision for entirely other reasons, the law does not consider it to be fraud.
- Lack of Evidence It’s on the prosecution to prove the case against you. If they don’t have strong enough evidence, we will argue that they failed to provide proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Non-Participant – In larger fraud schemes, it’s possible for innocent bystanders to unknowingly be caught up in the process. If you weren’t participating in the scheme, you shouldn’t have to face penalties for it.
Need a Fraud Lawyer in Smithville, MO? Call Combs Waterkotte Now
Combs Waterkotte offers high-quality defenses for Smithville, MO, citizens facing criminal charges, from traffic tickets to felonies. When you call us, you’ll get direct attention from an experienced attorney.
Get in touch with a fraud lawyer in Smithville, MO, right away at (314) 900-HELP or use our online contact form to start building your defense.
