Criminal fraud is broadly defined as purposefully deceiving others for one’s own financial gain. Fraud is different than simple theft, which typically involves stealing money or property by force or threat of force. On the other hand, the key element in a fraud charge is the existence of a planned scheme of deceptive conduct to defraud victims. Fraud is often considered a white-collar crime and can be charged as a state or federal criminal offense. Depending on the facts of the case, fraud may be chargeable as a misdemeanor or felony. Given the serious potential penalties and personal consequences at stake, it is important to take these charges seriously. Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible if you have been charged with fraud or believe you are being investigated for fraudulent activity. Call our Austin office today to schedule a consultation with a lawyer.
Austin criminal defense lawyer effectively handling fraud cases
Fraud can take a variety of forms. Common examples include:
- Wire fraud
- Bank fraud
- Identity theft
- Insurance fraud
- Mail fraud
- Cyber, internet or telecommunications crimes
- Knowingly writing checks with insufficient funds
Whether charges are filed in state or federal court, it will be important to have a criminal defense attorney who has had the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the facts of the case and has substantial experience with financial fraud cases. Understanding the types of evidence and how it was obtained by law enforcement will likely impact how a defendant proceeds. It is not uncommon for evidence to be challenged on the basis of violations of one’s Fourth or Fifth Amendment rights. An experienced defense attorney will be well-versed in these issues. Where such violations exist, counsel will prepare and file the motions needed to seek the exclusion of such evidence.
Cases can become extremely complicated depending upon the nature of the scheme, the number of participants and victims, and time period involved. Investigations may be ongoing for several years before charges are ever filed. In many cases, specialized expert witnesses, such as forensic accountants or cybersecurity experts may provide testimony on behalf of the prosecution. Having a defense attorney who is able to secure experts to review your case and provide rebuttal testimony will be imperative. In addition, a lawyer with trial experience, in both state and federal court, will be able to effectively communicate such complicated information to a jury during trial.
Dan Dworin is certified as a specialist in criminal defense by the Texas Board of Specialization and has been aggressively representing his clients since 1995. He is licensed to practice in both state and federal court. Dan’s experience includes working with expert witnesses to defend clients in complicated fraud cases. He will quickly review your case to evaluate whether law enforcement potentially violated the Fourth or Fifth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution during their investigations. Such violations may include searching one’s cell phone or computer without a warrant or entering a residence when a warrant was required. After completing his investigation, he will file any necessary motions and, if necessary, prepare your case for trial. Throughout the process, Dan will ensure that you are prepared to proceed and that you know what to expect. Contact our office to speak with a lawyer.
In addition to Austin, our firm also serves the cities of Rollingwood, Round Rock, Elgin, Jonestown, Manor, Bee Cave, Lago Vista, Sunset Valley, Lakeway, Creedmoor, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Leander, and San Marcos, Texas.
Defense attorney providing high level representation to Austin residents
Dan understands that facing criminal fraud charges can be an overwhelming experience. He is dedicated to creating a meaningful lawyer-client relationship to help his clients through the entire process. This includes responding promptly to emails and telephone calls and otherwise making himself available to answer his clients’ questions and concerns. His state and federal court experience uniquely qualify him to handle complicated fraud cases. Contact our Austin office today to schedule a consultation with an attorney.