Defend Against Fraud Charges in Orange County
Understanding California Fraud Laws and Defense
If you’re here, you need to speak with a Orange County fraud lawyer as soon as possible. Being accused of fraud in California can mean several things. Fraud occurs when a person makes false claims for monetary gain. Allegations can arise from offenses involving fraudulent bankruptcies, securities, identity theft, and several other criminal offenses. It is known as a “wobbler” offense. This means that, depending upon their circumstances, defendants can be charged with a felony or a misdemeanor.
If you have been charged with fraud offenses, you can expect prosecutors to treat you and your offense very seriously. California fraud laws and penalties may require a skilled legal professional to properly evaluate your case and identify the best possible defense strategies to help prove your innocence.
Contact Our Orange County Fraud Defense Team at (844) 285-9559 for a Complimentary Case Review.
Penalties for Fraud in California: What You Need to Know
Key Elements of Fraud Charges in California
Most fraud crimes stem from the intent to gain something financially or as a way to elude criminal penalties.
Fraudulent crimes are distinguished by two actions:
- Conducting an illegal activity such to benefit oneself
- Performing an activity that is detrimental to a victim
To prosecute fraud, the state has the burden to prove certain elements beyond a reasonable doubt.
For instance, in the case of forgery by signing someone else’s name, the state must prove that:
- The defendant signed someone else’s or a false name to a document
- The defendant did not have the authority to sign that name
- The defendant knew they did not have that authority
- When the defendant committed the act, it was their intention to defraud
In cases of forgery by counterfeiting or forging another person’s signature, the state must prove that:
- The accused forged or counterfeited the handwriting of another person on a document
- When the accused acted, they intended to defraud
In California, forging documents can be a misdemeanor or felony charge, depending on the defendant’s criminal past.
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GET DEFENSE FROM AN AWARD-WINNING TEAM OF ATTORNEYS
Over the years our firm has earned numerous awards and accolades for delivering outstanding legal representation. Some of our awards include: Admission to The National Top Trial Lawyers Association since 2014, AVVO Rating 10.0 Superb Rating, American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys Award "10 Best Attorney Client Satisfaction" in 2018, Nationally Ranked Top 100 Under 40 in California Attorney Award in 2017, Member of the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce since 2018, Martindale-Hubbell Accredited Law Firm, Distinguished in Orange County Metro "Top Attorneys" section, and Featured in Orange Coast Magazine in April 2010 as one of "Orange County's Best Criminal Defense Attorneys".
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