Houston Fraud Lawyer

Paul Darrow Fraud Attorney Proudly Serving Houston, TX

Houston Fraud AttorneyFraud is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of offenses, ranging from misdemeanor to felony, and can in some cases even result in federal criminal charges. Examples of fraud in the state of Texas could include common law fraud, fraud in the inducement, and statutory fraud. Our Houston fraud lawyer knows what it takes in order to determine the charges involved with each type of fraud you may be dealing with.

Fraud occurs when someone intentionally makes false statements and presents them as facts. Fraud may also be charged if a person recklessly fails to know the truth about something and still presents it as fact. The courts have defined fraud as intentional misrepresentation, trickery, deceit, concealment, or nondisclosure for the purpose of inducing another to part with something of value. While the definition is broad, negligent misrepresentation (similar to fraud) and other situations where fraud may have occurred requires expert legal help as the elements of fraud may vary from case to case.

If you are being accused of fraud, or believe someone has harmed you by misrepresenting the facts to you, take immediate action and consult with the Houston fraud lawyer at Darrow Law Firm, P.C. today to see if you have a valid legal claim.

Common Types of Fraud

  • Bank fraud (forgery, falsifying info on loan applications, etc.)
  • Embezzlement (misappropriating/misusing funds entrusted to someone on behalf of another)
  • Welfare or other public benefits fraud (including health care fraud)
  • Tax fraud (tax evasion, falsifying tax returns, providing false information to return preparers)
  • Unemployment benefits fraud (withholding information in order to obtain benefits)
  • Deceptively obtaining drugs from a pharmacy
  • Intentionally causing an auto accident in order to collect money
  • Real estate fraud (falsifying information to lenders, etc.)
  • Ponzi schemes (promoting belief in nonexistent enterprise)
  • Money laundering

Even possessing a fake ID can be considered fraud, misusing the 911 system, or obtaining property through worthless checks you know will bounce. The list goes on, which is why it is important you have the legal help you need if you have been accused of fraud or believe you have been defrauded by someone else.

Penalties for Fraud in Texas

The penalties for fraud will vary, depending upon the situation. Credit card fraud, for example, will be classified as a felony in the state of Texas, so the penalties for that type of crime will result in a prison sentence of between 180 days and two years and/or a fine of up to $10,000. Additionally, the person convicted of credit card fraud may be ordered to pay retribution for the amount that was defrauded and need to contact a Houston fraud lawyer right away.

In other circumstances, such as where the victim was an elderly person, the charge could be more severe. In cases like those, for example, the crime becomes a third degree felony. The penalty for that crime will be between two and ten years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000, as well as retribution for the damages to the victim.

Contact Our Expert Legal Defense Lawyer for Combating Fraud Charges

If you are convicted of fraud, you will be required by the court to make restitution in addition to jail time. Attorney Paul Darrow understands the complex nature of the fraud laws and will strive to protect your interests. Call today for defense help against all types of fraud allegations. Paul’s experience as a former prosecutor brings a wealth of experience to his practice as a Houston fraud attorney he uses this knowledge and experience to fight for his clients. When it comes to defending those who are facing the serious consequences of a criminal charge conviction, Paul will fight for you!