If you’ve been accused of welfare fraud then you need an attorney – but not just any attorney. Only a welfare fraud attorney will have the unique experience you need to fight these claims. The state of California defines welfare fraud as taking benefits from California state-sponsored assistance programs when those programs aren’t deserved. Both people involved in the programs and those receiving assistance can be charged.
We can help with any type of welfare fraud charge
Whether you’re a former employee of a California agency who’s now being charged with welfare fraud or a member of the public who’s accused of stealing from these programs, you can count on Chambers Law Firm to help you. We’ve worked on a wide range of cases, including those that involved making false statements, applying for benefits under several names, illegally using and / or transferring benefits, and not providing relevant (true) information.
The potential punishment for a welfare fraud conviction
A person convicted of welfare fraud is looking at least six months in jail and a fine of up to $500 up to three years in state prison and up to $5,000 in fines. It all depends on the type of fraud being alleged, how much the benefits were worth, and whether the prosecutor chooses to prosecute it as a felony or a misdemeanor.
Additionally punishments are possible as well, including the inability to ever receive benefits in the future and having your state-issued professional licenses permanently revoked. In many cases, we see welfare fraud cases charged with perjury, theft, forgery, and other crimes. This is why you must contact Chambers Law Firm as soon as possible. We offer well-rounded experience in a wide range of fields and can assist with charges that stem from welfare fraud.
There are two main ways to respond to charges
If you end up charged with committing welfare fraud, there are two main ways you can respond. One option is to prove that you’re innocent. We may argue that you didn’t mean to defraud anyone, or that the issue is one of mistaken identity – you didn’t commit the fraud at all. We have experience with a wide range of defenses and can help you decide what the right option is.
Another option is to get the charges against you dropped, or get a beneficial plea deal with reduced charges and a less significant sentence, by repaying all of the value of the benefits that were taken. We can explain this option to you as well and go over the minimum amount you may have to repay to have it work.
Work with an attorney who is experienced
You won’t find an attorney who’s more committed to your case than Attorney Chambers. Our offices are here to walk you through the process, to offer options, advice, and expert care. Contact us today at 714-760-4088 and get your free case evaluation.
