Howard County Fraud Lawyer
Fraud is typically some act where the government accuses a person of intentionally lying or misrepresenting some fact to achieve a benefit or harm the listener. If the government has accused you of fraud, you feel like the police are calling you a liar. Even a misunderstanding could result in a fraud charge.
However, any conviction or arrest may appear on your record. Many careers are closed to people the courts have convicted of some fraudulent activity. You may wish to avoid the harm done to your reputation as well as the immediate effects of a conviction.
You may wish to protect yourself from jail time and hefty fines. Contact a Howard County fraud lawyer who may be able to sit down with you and explain the applicable laws and how they may affect you. You may have certain defenses and rights you were unaware of which may help you fight the charges. Reach out to a dedicated criminal attorney today.
Typical Types of Fraud
Both federal and state laws punish fraudulent acts. Some rules that appear in the Maryland Criminal Code Title 8 include:
- Creating or possessing counterfeit documents,
- Commercial fraud,
- Drafting bad checks,
- Identity fraud,
- Defrauding the government,
- Health care fraud, and
- Credit card fraud.
Drafting a Bad Check
A person may not use a check to obtain goods or services if the drawer knows that the bank does not have enough money in the account to honor the check, the drawer believes the bank will refuse the check or the bank actually refuses the check, as noted in Criminal Code §8-103. If a court finds a person guilty of violating the check presentation laws, the laws vary based on the amount of the goods or services obtained. If the products or services were worth $100,000 or more, that is a felony punishable with up to 20 years in jail and a fine of up to $25,000. If the goods or services were worth less than $100, then the punishment can be no more than 90 days in jail and fine or no more than $500.
Credit Card Fraud
If a person lies about who they are to receive a credit card, that is a crime if:
- The speaker knew they were lying and
- The speaker expected the listener to rely on the statement, as described in Criminal Code §8-203.
It is also a crime to steal a credit card. A person may not use, sell or buy a stolen credit card.
The punishment for credit card fraud may include up to 18 months in jail and a fine of no more than $500. Individuals facing this type of charge should reach out to seasoned Howard County fraud lawyer as soon as possible.
Health Care Fraud
A person may not pretend to be someone else to obtain free health care or obtain another person’s health information. Any action related to health care fraud may be punished with hefty fines and jail time of five to 20 years depending on the value of stolen services, as noted in Criminal Code §8-301.
Identity Fraud
It is a crime to sell or create fake identification cards, as found in Criminal Code §8-302. Each violation of this law could result in up to two years in jail and a fine of no more than $2,000.
Learn More from a Howard County Fraud Attorney Today
There are many different types of fraud, but all of them are crimes of moral turpitude. That means if the police accuse you of that type of crime, your reputation may suffer, and you may not be eligible for specific careers or positions. You may wish to do everything in your power to protect your good name and your freedom.
Consult with a Howard County fraud lawyer to discuss defenses you may have and how best to approach your matter. An attorney may be vital for your case, so consider speaking with one today.