Glendale Fraud Attorneys

California Fraud Crimes

Fraud and other financially-motivated crimes are generally nonviolent offenses. However, this does not mean they are not harmful to victims. They are typically committed by those in positions of trust or authority who often have in-depth knowledge of the systems they use to commit fraud. This knowledge gives them the unique ability to conceal their activities. 

These individuals often understand financial and legal frameworks combined with access to sensitive information. They can include financial advisors, chief financial officers, bookkeepers, accountants, politicians, public servants, healthcare providers, billing specialists, and more.

Examples of fraud include:

• Identity theft: The unauthorized use of someone else’s personal information to gain cash, loans, or other benefits. 
• Credit card fraud: Involves using someone else’s credit card information to make unauthorized purchases or withdrawals.
• Insurance fraud: Falsifying information to obtain insurance benefits unlawfully.
• Securities fraud: Also known as stock or investment fraud, this involves deceptive practices in the stock or commodities markets.
• Bankruptcy fraud: Concealing assets or otherwise manipulating the legal bankruptcy process for personal gain.
• Tax evasion: Illegally avoiding paying taxes owed.
• Ponzi schemes: A fraudulent investing scam promising high rates of return with little risk to investors.
• Forgery: The creation, alteration, or falsification of essential documents or signatures with the intent to deceive or commit fraud.
• Medicare fraud: Involves billing Medicare for services not provided or not necessary to receive payment illegally.
• Real estate fraud: This includes falsifying documents for property transactions or mortgage applications to profit or obtain property unlawfully.
• Welfare fraud: Illegally obtaining government assistance benefits through false or withheld information.
• Social Security fraud: Misrepresentation or concealment of information to improperly receive Social Security benefits.
• Mortgage fraud: This involves deliberate misstatements, misrepresentation, or omission of information by an applicant or lender during the mortgage lending process, typically to secure a loan under false pretenses.

The penalties for fraud vary depending on the severity and scale of the crime but can include heavy fines, restitution to victims, and imprisonment. Collateral damage can include the loss of professional licenses, the destruction of your career, and a permanent criminal record impairing your future. This underscores the necessity for skilled legal representation.