Fraud Lawyer in Sweet Springs, MO. Missouri doesn’t have a particular law dedicated to “fraud.” Instead, fraud is considered a category of laws that refer to certain types of theft – specifically, non-violent offenses where the supposed offender used deception to allegedly trick another person. Fighting these charges effectively is a tall order, and to protect yourself against them, it’s critical to reach out to an adept Sweet Springs, MO, criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
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.
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Sweet Springs, MO, Fraud Lawyer: Page Summary
Below, we will go over:
- What makes a crime a ‘fraud crime;’
- The role a fraud lawyer plays in defending you against charges;
- The types of charges that fall under the ‘fraud’ category in Sweet Springs, MO;
- 5 steps you need to take if you’re charged with a fraud crime;
- How Combs Waterkotte sets itself apart in fraud cases;
- Examples of fraud charge defense strategies; and
- How to contact our Sweet Springs, MO, fraud attorneys today.
Legal Videos
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 …
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 Sweet Springs, 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.
When trying to determine if an alleged crime counts as “fraud,” look for the following:
- The act of lying committed with intention
- The act benefits the alleged offender
- On the other end of the alleged fraud, someone is left with a loss
A common example of fraud is an imposter scam. This could take the form of calling another person, pretending to be a relative in need of financial help.
Intention plays a key role in fraud allegations. Without intent to defraud someone, an action is generally not considered fraud. As an example, if you sold your house and did not tell the buyer about a leak in the roof, but you weren’t aware of it yourself, you would not be guilty of fraud.
Professional Help That a Fraud Lawyer Can Provide in Sweet Springs, MO
Your fraud lawyer will be by your side from the first phone call, defending your rights and fighting for your freedom. If you have any reason to suspect you’re being investigated for fraud, reach out to your attorney immediately.
Here’s what they can provide for you:
- Explanations of Statutes – Some Missouri statutes are ambiguous and hard to understand. Fraud is no exception, but your attorney can break it down for you.
- Advice During Questioning – If the police invite you in for questioning, your lawyer can advise you on how to respond.
- 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 – Unfortunately, cases don’t always end in the courtroom. Your attorney can give you guidance on how to handle interactions with the public.
- Relationships in Court – Negotiation is a key part of criminal defense. You need a lawyer who knows how to work with the district attorney.
- Representation at Trial – Not every case reaches trial, but if yours does, your attorney will argue against the prosecution and for your innocence.
Your lawyer should listen to your side of the story, and your defense should be tailored to you. Combs Waterkotte embodies this philosophy for all of our Sweet Springs, MO, clients. We fight to find the best outcome in your case, and won’t stop until you get the justice you deserve.
Credit Card Fraud
Credit card fraud isn’t a single crime in Sweet Springs, MO, but instead is covered by two different Missouri statutes. The first, § 570.130 RSMo, makes it illegal to use a fake or stolen credit card, use one that has been cancelled, or otherwise use it without permission. It has set restrictions on cancelling a payment if that payment was for property taxes. Penalties range from up to a year in jail, if the value spent was under $750 in a 30-day period, to up to four years in prison for higher amounts.
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
Sweet Springs, 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.
The main bank fraud statute in Missouri is § 570.148 RSMo. This law makes it a crime to try to trick a bank into giving you money that you’re not supposed to. Depending on the amount and other circumstances, a conviction can be anything from a class B misdemeanor to a class B felony.
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. As a hypothetical, 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 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.
18 U.S.C. § 1343 is the federal statute covering wire fraud. Penalties for a conviction go up to 20 years in prison, or 30 years if a financial institution or federal disaster relief funds were involved. The end sentence is usually determined using §2B1.1 sentencing guidelines.
Other Fraud Charges Our Lawyers Defend in Sweet Springs, MO
There’s no fraud charge too big for the Sweet Springs, MO, criminal defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte. For example, we can help you fight any of the following:
- Welfare Fraud
- Medicare/Medicaid Fraud
- Mortgage Fraud
- Immigration Fraud
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How to Handle Fraud Accusations in Sweet Springs, MO
As soon as you’re accused of fraud, it’s important to take proper steps to protect yourself. We recommend the following:
- Don’t Answer Police Questions – You have the right to remain silent, and should use it during any police interviews.
- Call Your Sweet Springs, MO, Fraud Lawyer – The sooner you bring in your lawyer, the more time they’ll have to develop a strong legal defense.
- Post Bail – 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.
- Gather Evidence WITHOUT Tampering – 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.
- Build a Defense Plan With Your Attorney – It’s your lawyer’s job to present the best defense possible for your case, and build a strategy based on your story.
There are no guaranteed outcomes in criminal court. 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.
Set Your Case Up for a Positive Outcome: Contact Combs Waterkotte
Combs Waterkotte has handled over 10,000 cases, many of them just like yours. With more than 100 years of combined legal experience (both for the prosecutor’s office and the state), our attorneys know how to navigate the Sweet Springs, MO, court system.
We are dedicated to our clients, and take pride in offering comprehensive legal services to Sweet Springs:
- We are well regarded by former clients.
- We are focused on you as a person, not just your case.
- We offer flexible payment plans.
- We’re available 24/7 if you need anything related to your case.
If you’re facing charges, we’re ready to help – contact us now to get the legal help you need.
5 Defenses We May Use in Your Fraud Case
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 Sweet Springs, MO, will take the time to pick the right one for you.
Here are some examples that your lawyer might recommend:
- Lack of Intent/Good Faith – Fraud charges in Missouri normally require intent to be found guilty. If you had no ill intentions, we can use this as a defense.
- Statement Was Not Fraudulent – If you made an opinion-based or vague statement that didn’t hold much weight, we can challenge whether it was enough to qualify as fraud.
- Victim Didn’t Rely on Your Statements – Fraud convictions require the alleged victim to have been significantly influenced by your statements. If your statement did not impact their choices, the law does not consider it to be fraud.
- Alibi – Depending on the nature of the case, we could prove that you were not involved in the interaction, and were otherwise occupied at the time.
- 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 Sweet Springs, MO? Call Combs Waterkotte Now
Combs Waterkotte offers high-quality defenses for Sweet Springs, MO, citizens facing criminal charges, from traffic tickets to felonies. When you call us, you’ll get direct attention from an experienced attorney.
Speak with a fraud lawyer in Sweet Springs, MO, now at (314) 900-HELP or use our online contact form to set up a private conversation with an attorney.
