Fraud charges can upend your life in an instant. One moment, everything seems normal, and the next, you find yourself facing criminal prosecution, a tarnished reputation, and an uncertain future.
If you have been charged with fraud in Greenville, you need the advocacy of a skilled fraud attorney right away. At Hellams Law, LLC, we provide experienced white collar crime defense to protect your rights, reputation, and freedom.
The Nature of Fraud Charges
Many different actions can lead to criminal fraud charges under South Carolina law. Some common examples include:
- Writing bad checks
- Using a stolen credit card
- Filing false insurance claims
- Engaging in financial scams or cons
- Falsifying business records
- Participating in illegal pyramid schemes
- Committing healthcare fraud
- Engaging in securities fraud
In general, fraud involves deliberately deceiving someone for unlawful gain, often financial. A conviction requires proving beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused made material misrepresentations with the intent to defraud the victim. However, fraud laws and their application to specific cases can be quite complex.
Fraud charges also come in different forms based on the circumstances, from misdemeanors to felony offenses. More serious fraud charges, like federal mail and wire fraud, can lead to hefty fines and lengthy prison sentences upon conviction. No matter what type of fraud allegations you face, consulting an experienced fraud lawyer promptly is essential.
Fraud Investigations
Fraud cases often begin with an extensive investigation long before any arrest occurs. Law enforcement agents look over financial records, interview witnesses, and gather evidence to build their case, often with the target unaware. By the time charges are filed, prosecutors tend to have a wealth of evidence at their disposal.
If you suspect you are under investigation for fraud, exercising your right to remain silent is crucial.
Well-meaning attempts to explain the situation can easily be twisted into admissions of guilt.
Politely decline to answer questions and contact a fraud defense attorney right away. Involving a fraud lawyer early allows them to intervene in the investigation, safeguard your rights, and potentially resolve issues before charges are brought.
Building a Strategic Fraud Defense
Fighting fraud charges requires a strategic, proactive approach tailored to the unique facts of your case. Attorney Hellams takes time to listen to your side of the story, investigate the evidence against you, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. He explores all available legal options and mounts a vigorous defense on your behalf.
Potential fraud defenses include:
- Demonstrating a lack of fraudulent intent
- Arguing insufficient evidence of guilt
- Uncovering violations of constitutional rights
- Challenging illegal searches and seizures
- Asserting entrapment by law enforcement
- Presenting exculpatory evidence
- Negotiating the reduction or dismissal of charges
In building your defense strategy, Attorney Will Hellams will thoroughly analyze all relevant documentation, interview witnesses, engage experts as needed, and use all tools at his disposal to pursue the best possible outcome. While a strong defense can lead to acquittal at trial in some cases, he also has extensive experience negotiating favorable plea agreements to minimize the consequences of a conviction.
Fraud Penalties
A fraud conviction can result in jail time, substantial fines, restitution to victims, and a permanent criminal record. However, the specific penalties depend on the type of fraud and the scope of the alleged scheme.
For example, a conviction for writing bad checks, a misdemeanor, can lead to fines from $500 to $5,000 and jail time of up to 30 days per violation. More serious felony offenses like securities fraud carry fines of up to $300,000 and 10 years in prison for each count.
With such high stakes, you cannot afford to face fraud charges without aggressive legal representation in your corner. The sooner you contact a qualified fraud attorney, the better your chances of mitigating the fallout and protecting your future.
Your Fraud Defense Advocates
At Hellams Law, we know the stress and fear that come with fraud accusations. Attorney Hellams and our experienced team are here to lift that burden from your shoulders and fight for your rights at every turn. We believe everyone deserves the presumption of innocence and the opportunity to present their defense.
Our firm treats clients facing criminal charges with the dignity, discretion, and respect they deserve.
We take time to answer your questions thoroughly, explain your options, and include you in important decisions about your case. You can count on open, honest communication and the highest standards of professionalism. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
