Richmond Fraud Defense Lawyer

Aggressive Defense to Fight Serious Charges

In Virginia, the laws concerning fraud are dynamic and complex. Many different types of actions could be considered an offense, and each of these crimes come with harsh penalties. If you were accused of committing fraud, you could be looking at jail or prison time and fines.

Additionally, in some cases, you could be ordered to pay restitution to the alleged victim. The consequences of being found guilty of this type of crime could affect you for the rest of your life, as finding employment with a fraud conviction on your record could make some employers reluctant to hire you.

When facing criminal charges for fraud, it’s important to have a skilled lawyer on your side. At the Law Office of Paul C. Galanides, P.C., our Richmond attorney has over 27 years of courtroom experience and knows how to provide an effective defense in fraud cases.

By listening to your side of the story, thoroughly reviewing your case, and developing a unique legal strategy on your behalf, we will work toward obtaining a not guilty verdict.

We have achieved favorable results for past clients, and we are prepared to do the same for you. Speak with us during a free phone consultation by calling (804) 977-0110 or fill out our online contact form.

What Is Considered Fraud?

Fraud is defined as knowingly making a false representation in order to deceive another person for your own personal gain. However, it isn’t just one type of crime. Chapter 6 of Virginia Criminal Code 18.2 lists over 100 types of offenses that are considered fraud.

Under the law, kinds of fraud include, but are not limited to:

Falsifying or altering transcripts or diplomas (18.2-172.1): This occurs when a person fakes a record from a higher education institution for financial gain or to further one’s studies.
Impersonating a police officer (18.2-174): If a person falsely assumes the identity of a local, city, county, state, or federal law enforcement officer, they are committing an offense.
Writing a bad check (18.2-181): When a person issues a check, knowing that they do not have sufficient funds in their account to cover the entire amount, they violate this law.
Making false statements to get property or credit (18.2-186): It is illegal for a person to falsely state in writing that they have the financial means to obtain property, a loan, or other items of value.
Possessing an unlawful electronic communication device (18.2-190.2): Knowingly having in one’s possession an unlawful electronic communication device or equipment to make an illegal device is prohibited by this statute.
Credit card theft (18.2-192): Taking, receiving, or selling a credit card or its numbers without the cardholder’s consent is an offense under this statute.

What Are the Penalties for Fraud?

Because there are various types of fraud offenses, the punishments for a conviction will vary. Some crimes are charged as misdemeanors, and others are felonies. Depending on the level and classification of the offense, you could be sentenced to jail or prison and/or be required to pay a fine.

For instance, falsifying a diploma or transcript is a Class 3 misdemeanor, and a conviction results in a fine of up to $500. Impersonating a law enforcement officer is also a misdemeanor, but it is a Class 1. The penalties for this classification include up to 12 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,500.

Because felonies are considered more serious offenses than misdemeanors, the penalties are higher. For example, writing a bad check of $500 or more is a Class 6 felony. A conviction for this offense includes up to 5 years in prison and/or up to $2,000 in fines.

Discuss Your Case with Our Team Today

A conviction for a fraud crime could have dramatic impacts on your life even after you have served your sentence. That is why it is imperative to have a Richmond fraud defense attorney fighting to protect your rights. At the Law Office of Paul C. Galanides, P.C. we will explore every legal option to work towards a favorable outcome on your behalf.

For the focused legal representation you need, call our Richmond fraud defense lawyer at (804) 977-0110 or contact us online.