What You Need to Know About Social Security Fraud Crimes
If you face allegations of social security fraud, there are steps you can take immediately to protect your freedom and future. Here is a guide to help you at this difficult time.
Your Best Defense Against Life-Changing Allegations
If you’re facing Social Security fraud allegations, you likely feel uncertain and overwhelmed. Fraud accusations can damage your reputation, disrupt your future, and leave you wondering if your life will ever be the same. At LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C., we understand the fear and anxiety our clients experience, and we’re here to provide the experienced, compassionate, and relentless defense you need to protect your rights, reputation, and freedom.
Understanding Social Security Fraud
Social Security fraud involves intentionally misrepresenting information or failing to report changes that affect eligibility for Social Security benefits. These charges may arise from:
- providing incorrect details on a Social Security application, such as inflating income or hiding assets
- omitting significant changes, like employment or marital status, that would impact benefits
- using another person’s benefits without permission or using a Social Security number fraudulently
Mistakes happen, and sometimes a simple oversight or misunderstanding can lead to wrongful criminal charges. With so much at stake, securing an experienced Social Security fraud defense attorney can make all the difference in how your case unfolds.
Federal Laws Governing Social Security Fraud
Federal law classifies Social Security fraud as a serious offense under 42 U.S.C. § 408, which punishes intentional misrepresentation, theft, and misuse of Social Security benefits. Although Michigan doesn’t have state-specific laws for Social Security fraud, other state laws, like those against identity theft, may apply in cases involving Social Security number misuse. Federal crimes are prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office in the United States District Court in Michigan.
Direct Penalties: The Immediate Threat of Social Security Fraud Convictions
Social Security fraud convictions carry harsh penalties that affect your freedom and financial stability. Fraud offenses can result in up to five (5) years in prison, while egregious actions, like profiting from assisting others in fraud, can lead to sentences of up to ten years. Convictions may lead to fines of up to $250,000, creating substantial financial hardship. In some cases, the court may impose probation or supervised release with strict conditions. Violating any conditions set by the Court can result in further penalties or jail time.
Facing these penalties without a strong legal advocate puts you at serious risk. An experienced defense attorney can examine every detail of your case, counter the evidence, and fight to reduce or eliminate these severe consequences.
Collateral Consequences: The Ripple Effects of a Fraud Conviction
Aside from prison, probation, fines, and supervised release, a fraud conviction can impact every facet of your life, often in unexpected ways. Many employers hesitate to hire individuals with a fraud conviction, especially for roles requiring financial responsibility or trust. A conviction can prevent you from obtaining or maintaining professional licenses, affecting careers in healthcare, finance, law, and more. A criminal record can strain personal relationships and limit social opportunities, damaging your reputation. For non-citizens, fraud convictions can lead to deportation or prevent naturalization. In addition to potential prison and fines, a Federal fraud conviction often results in the loss of the right to own or possess firearms, further limiting personal freedoms.
With so much on the line, choosing the right legal team is critical. The experienced attorneys at LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. understand the gravity of these consequences and work tirelessly to protect your rights and minimize the impact on your life.
Potential Defenses in Social Security Fraud Cases
In Social Security fraud cases, a skilled defense attorney will examine every detail of the prosecution’s case to build the strongest possible defense. Common defense strategies include:
| Strategy | Description |
|---|---|
| Intent Challenge | Showing that you did not intend to commit fraud, as fraud requires deliberate intent. |
| Weak Evidence Defense | Challenging weak or circumstantial evidence to reduce charges or secure a dismissal. |
| Third-Party Responsibility | Demonstrating that another person was responsible for the alleged actions in identity theft cases. |
| Procedural Error Exposure | Exposing procedural errors or violations of your rights that may allow evidence suppression. |
Each case is unique, so we tailor your defense to your specific needs. Contacting an experienced Social Security fraud defense attorney early on can help you develop a defense that maximizes your chance of a favorable outcome.
How a Defense Attorney Can Help – Before and After Charges Are Filed
An attorney can play a pivotal role in Social Security fraud cases, whether you’re under investigation or have already been charged.
Pre-Charge Defense: Early legal intervention often proves key. If you’re under investigation, the precharge attorneys at LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. can prevent mistakes, avoid self-incrimination, and in some cases, prevent charges from being filed. We handle communication with investigators, represent you in any pre-charge interviews, and protect your rights from the start.
Post-Charge Representation: If charges have been filed, we work tirelessly to counter the evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and fight for dismissal, reduced charges, or favorable plea agreements. We leverage every tool and strategy to secure the best possible outcome.
Why LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. is Your Best Choice for Social Security Fraud Defense
Choosing the right defense attorney can make all the difference in the outcome of a Social Security fraud case. LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. offers a unique team approach, combining experience and commitment to provide a powerful defense. Here’s what sets us apart:
Experience
We bring years of experience in defending fraud and white-collar crime cases, with a proven track record in complex Social Security fraud cases.
Tenacious and Loyal
Our attorneys fight relentlessly in court but maintain compassion in our client relationships, ensuring you have the support you need every step of the way.
Powerful and Influential Defense
Our team approach means we combine insights, experience, and talents from multiple attorneys, guaranteeing a powerful, well-rounded defense. This collaborative strategy ensures that we consider every angle of your case.
When you work with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C., you’re not just hiring a lawyer—you’re enlisting a dedicated team that will fight for you with tenacity and integrity.
Protect Your Future – Take Action Today
The stakes in a Social Security fraud case couldn’t be higher. A conviction can impact your freedom, career, and future. With the right defense team, you have hope. LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. is here to fight for you with unwavering dedication and unmatched expertise. Don’t let a fraud accusation shape your future—contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your rights, reputation, and freedom. We will find a way to help you!
Call us today at (248) 263-6800 for a free consultation or complete an online Request for Assistance Form. We will contact you promptly and find a way to help you.
We will find a way to help you.
We Are Not Afraid to Win!
