Dallas Fraud Crime Lawyer

Helping You Fight Against Federal & State Charges

Whether you need an insurance fraud lawyer or a securities fraud defense attorney, contact us today to schedule a consultation. With The Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC, you get the tough, experienced fraud representation you need to take on a tough and well-funded prosecution.

Fraud comes in many different forms, and it is important to select a Dallas fraud defense lawyer who understands how to craft an effective defense in these complex situations. We defend clients in cases of federal crimes, as well as state crimes.

Fraud Charges in Texas

Fraud is a broad term that encompasses a variety of different crimes generally defined as a false representation or omission of material fact, either through words or conduct, that is intended to result in personal or financial gain.

Common examples of fraud include:

• Credit card fraud
• Healthcare fraud
• Insurance fraud
• Investment fraud
• Ponzi schemes
• Securities fraud
• Mail fraud
• Wire fraud
• Franchise fraud
• Internet fraud
• Money laundering
• Identity theft

Texas Fraud Laws

States throughout the United States have enacted various laws penalizing fraudulent activity, either through civil or criminal laws. Texas is no different, and the state has enacted various laws to protect individuals against fraudulent activity.

Under Texas’s fraud statute, it is a criminal offense to commit the following fraudulent activities:

• Forgery
• Trademark counterfeiting
• Credit card or debit card abuse
• False statement to obtain property or credit
• Fraudulent transfer of motor vehicle
• Credit card transaction record laundering
• Issuance of bad check
• Rigging public contest
• Securing execution of document by deception
• Fraudulent destruction, removal or concealment of writing
• Fraudulent use or possession of identifying information
• Simulating legal process
• Refusal to execute release of fraudulent claim

In Texas, fraud can be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the severity of the offense and the amount of money or property involved.

Here is a breakdown of the misdemeanor and felony fraud charges in Texas:

• Class C Misdemeanor: Fraud involving property or services valued at less than $100 is classified as a Class C misdemeanor in Texas. This offense carries a punishment of a fine up to $500, with no jail time.
• Class B Misdemeanor: If the value of the property or services is between $100 and $750, the fraud offense is a Class B misdemeanor. The penalty for this charge includes up to 180 days in county jail and a fine up to $2,000.
• Class A Misdemeanor: Fraud involving property or services valued between $750 and $2,500 is considered a Class A misdemeanor. Offenders can face up to 1 year in county jail and a fine up to $4,000.
• State Jail Felony: When the value of the fraudulently obtained property or services is between $2,500 and $30,000, it is classified as a state jail felony. The punishment ranges from 180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility, along with a fine up to $10,000.
• Third-Degree Felony: Fraud involving property or services valued between $30,000 and $150,000 is a third-degree felony. The penalty includes 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000.
• Second-Degree Felony: For fraud involving amounts between $150,000 and $300,000, the offense is classified as a second-degree felony. This carries a punishment of 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000.
• First-Degree Felony: Fraud involving property or services valued at more than $300,000 is a first-degree felony. Offenders can face 5 to 99 years or life in prison, along with a fine up to $10,000.

Fraud charges should not be taken lightly. It is important to contact an experienced fraud defense attorney in Dallas early in the criminal process.

Federal Fraud Laws

In addition to state federal fraud laws, there are also various federal fraud laws. 

For example, under the federal mail fraud statute, it is a crime to use the U.S. mail to engage in fraud. A similar type of fraud punishable under federal law is wire fraud. The wire fraud statute was enacted to cover new types of technologies. The federal wire fraud statute makes it a crime to engage in fraud by means of wire, radio, or television communication in interstate or foreign commerce. 

The federal mail and wire fraud statutes are often implicated when an individual tries to defraud someone out of money, such as through fraudulent mail or telemarketing schemes. Depending on the type of fraud, penalties can range from a monetary penalty to significant jail time.

Defending Against Fraud Charges in Texas

Being accused of fraud can have serious legal consequences, including hefty fines and potential jail time. If you are facing fraud charges in Texas, it is crucial to have a skilled and experienced fraud crime lawyer on your side to help you navigate the complexities of federal and state laws.

At the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC, we have a proven track record of successfully defending clients against fraud allegations. Our team will work tirelessly to build a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific case and fight for the best possible outcome.

Don't wait to seek legal representation if you are facing fraud charges. today for a confidential consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help protect your rights and future.

Contact the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC

From insurance fraud to wire fraud, the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC has extensive experience helping defend individuals in all types of crimes. We will fight for your rights through the entire legal process.

View related reading here:

• How The Federal Government Is Targeting SBA Loan Fraud
• What You Should Know About PPP Loan Fraud
• Texas Fraud Laws: What You Need To Know

Contact our Dallas fraud defense lawyers today to schedule a consultation. We answer our phones 24/7 for emergencies. Call (214) 238-9392 today. Se habla Español.