Fraud charges in Palmetto involve crimes of dishonesty and deception for personal gain. Fraud charges come in many forms, including intentionally misrepresenting the truth, concealing information, or lying to cause harm to a person or business. A fraud conviction can carry severe consequences, including incarceration, steep fines, and a stain on your record.

Do not leave your future up to chance. When you have been accused of fraud, consider speaking with a Palmetto fraud lawyer who knows exactly what to do and how to help you. To schedule a consultation with an experienced defense attorney, call J. Ryan Brown Law today.

The Common Fraud Arrests and Charges in Georgia

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in debit and credit card theft. There is a wide range of fraudulent, criminal actions that could lead to conviction, and some of the other more common arrests involve the following:

  •      Computer theft, forgery, or invasion of privacy
  •      Deceptive business practices
  •      Financial Transaction Card Theft
  •      Forgery
  •      Fraudulent attempts to collect refunds
  •      Aggravated identity fraud

If you have further questions about the potential consequences of a fraud conviction, reach out to a knowledgeable Palmetto fraud attorney.

The Aggravated Identity Theft Statute

Due to recent advancements in technology, one form of fraud becoming increasingly more popular is identity theft. According to the guidance of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 16-9-121.1, an individual who intentionally and unlawfully uses identifying information belonging to a fictitious or actual person for the purposes of obtaining employment is guilty of aggravated identity fraud. A conviction for aggravated identity theft could mean a prison sentence of one to 15 years and fines of up to $250,000.

Further, the sentences for a conviction will not run concurrently if the criminal court convicts a person of these severe charges and other charges simultaneously. The party must serve the sentences consecutively.

The Required Elements for a Fraud Conviction

The state prosecutor must establish specific elements, regardless of the type of fraud charges, to obtain a guilty conviction. The necessary components of fraud, depending on the specific charge, may include the following:

  • The individual misrepresented, distorted, or falsified information
  • They knew they were unlawfully providing inaccurate data or did so with reckless disregard for whether or not the information was accurate
  • The party intended to induce the other person or business to act or refrain from action based on the false information
  • The suspect used the identity of another.

The person used forged documents to obtain property. If the state can establish each element of a specific charge to the jury beyond a reasonable doubt, the accused party may be convicted by the jury. The penalties they receive will depend on the circumstances of the case, the type of charge, and the defendant’s criminal history. A fraud attorney serving Palmetto can investigate the specifics of the case and create a comprehensive defense strategy.

Speak to a Knowledgeable Palmetto Fraud Attorney Today

Facing fraud charges is always stressful and can leave you worried about your freedom and future. Please remember that you are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, and an arrest does not mean the criminal court will convict you of the charges.

A seasoned Palmetto fraud lawyer understands what you face and is here to help you create a plan of action. Rely on J. Ryan Brown Law when you or someone you love is facing fraud charges.

J. Ryan Brown Law, LLC

J. Ryan Brown Law, LLC
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