Defenses to a Fraud Accusation
Fraud is a serious crime that comes along with harsh penalties. However, instances of misunderstandings or mishaps lead to fraud accusations often. It’s imperative for people to remember that just because you are accused, that doesn’t mean you are convicted. There are ways to help your case, and this includes hiring a defense lawyer who is acutely attuned to the nuances of fraud.
The kind of defense that will work the strongest depends on the circumstances. After a case evaluation, your lawyer can let you know whether one or a combination of options is available to you. A successful defense strategy will cast doubt into the prosecution’s argument and evidence against you.
Possible defenses to be used in a fraud charge are listed as follows:
Simple Misunderstanding
Fraud accusations can come up due to misunderstandings and mistakes. Another business or individual may suspect that you are attempting to take advantage, but the truth shows you were simply wrong or didn’t have the information you needed at the time. Your lawyer can clear things up and work hard to get the charges dropped or reduced.
Insufficient Evidence
A lawyer may not suggest a defense that is solely based on innocence, but will instead focus on the prosecution’s stance, or lack thereof. In order to be convicted of the crime, the prosecution have to show evidence that proves beyond a reasonable doubt that the actions met each element of fraud. If the prosecution doesn’t have enough evidence, your lawyer may pinpoint the weaknesses of their case. When it becomes obvious there isn’t sufficient proof, a lawyer can influence having the case dismissed.
Mistaken Identity
Fraud charges may arrive because someone’s property, money, or identity was stolen from them. But, that does not mean a victim has seen the suspect first hand. With the increase of commerce, social media, and banking online, it is common for fraud to occur over the internet.
There are other defenses aside from those listed above to consider when it comes to defending your fraud accusation. For assistance, contact a fraud lawyer in San Francisco, CA as soon as possible from The Morales Law Firm.
