Fraud Defense Attorney

Healthcare fraud, particularly involving Medicare or Medicaid, is a federal offense under laws like the False Claims Act or 18 U.S.C. § 1347. Allegations often center on submitting false billing codes, inflating services, or prescribing unnecessary treatments. Penalties are severe and you may also face exclusion from federal healthcare programs, crippling a medical career. Padula Law’s approach involves engaging forensic accountants and medical experts to scrutinize billing records, demonstrating errors were unintentional or exposing flaws in the government’s case, to protect your livelihood and freedom.

Securities fraud, governed by laws like the Securities Act of 1933, involves misleading investors or manipulating markets, often through false statements or insider trading. Relying on bad advice doesn’t automatically absolve you, but it can form a defense if you lacked the intent to deceive—a key element of the crime. At Padula Law, we thoroughly investigate the source of your information, whether from advisors or colleagues, and use expert testimony to argue good faith. Our goal is to dismantle the prosecution’s narrative and safeguard your reputation.

Federal fraud cases, such as wire, bank, or securities fraud, often cross state lines or impact national systems, prompting involvement from agencies like the FBI, SEC, or IRS. These agencies have vast resources, employing forensic analysts and investigators to build cases over months or years. Their involvement signals aggressive prosecution, with penalties often including decades in prison or fines in the millions. Padula Law counters this by leveraging our deep understanding of federal procedures, challenging evidence collection methods, and ensuring your rights are protected from the outset, leveling the playing field against formidable opponents.

Tax fraud, under 26 U.S.C. § 7201, involves willfully evading taxes or falsifying returns, and IRS agents are trained to elicit incriminating statements. Speaking without an attorney risks providing evidence that strengthens the government’s case. At Padula Law, we advise immediate silence and legal representation. Our team reviews your financial records to identify legitimate deductions or errors, building a defense that minimizes exposure and protects your rights during IRS scrutiny.

Bank fraud cases (18 U.S.C. § 1344), especially with multiple defendants, are complex due to voluminous financial records, witness testimonies, and potential conspiracy charges. Resolution can take several months to several years, factoring in investigations, discovery, plea negotiations, or trials. Each defendant’s strategy affects timing, and federal courts prioritize thoroughness. Padula Law accelerates your defense by proactively analyzing evidence, filing motions to suppress improper bank records, and negotiating with co-defendants’ counsel when beneficial, ensuring your case moves efficiently without compromising quality.

Insurance fraud, such as exaggerating claims or staging incidents, varies by state but can carry felony charges with prison time and restitution. Settling without jail could be possible if the loss is small, you’re a first-time offender, or we negotiate a plea for probation or a misdemeanor. At Padula Law, we dive into claim details, proving miscommunications or legitimate errors, and leverage our relationships with prosecutors to secure diversion programs or reduced charges, prioritizing outcomes that preserve your freedom and record.

Credit card fraud, under laws like 18 U.S.C. § 1029, requires proving you knowingly used stolen cards or data to defraud. Prosecutors often rely on transaction patterns, IP logs, security footage, or victim statements to show intent. Padula Law could challenge this by examining whether you were a victim of identity theft, had permission to use the card, or made innocent errors. Our rigorous analysis often uncovers gaps in the prosecution’s case, weakening their ability to prove intent beyond a reasonable doubt.

Mail fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1341) doesn’t automatically mean pre-trial detention. After arrest, a judge assesses bail based on flight risk, criminal history, and case severity. Depending on the circumstances of your case, it may be possible to secure release with bail or conditions like monitoring. Padula Law acts swiftly at bail hearings, presenting evidence of your community ties and low risk to ensure release. We also prepare for trial early, reducing the time you spend under legal stress and protecting your ability to live normally pending resolution.

Complex fraud cases, like those involving financial or healthcare schemes, require specialized knowledge. Padula Law collaborates with forensic accountants, IT analysts, and industry experts to dissect evidence, such as falsified ledgers or hacked systems. For example, in a bank fraud case, we might use an accountant to trace funds, proving no illicit gain. This expertise helps us counter prosecution claims with precision, often leading to dismissed charges or acquittals. Our network of professionals ensures your defense is authoritative and comprehensive.

Criminal fraud charges, like securities or insurance fraud, often trigger parallel civil lawsuits from victims seeking damages or regulators imposing fines. For instance, a securities fraud conviction could lead to shareholder lawsuits or SEC penalties beyond criminal fines. The civil burden of proof is lower, increasing risk. Padula Law coordinates defenses for both, negotiating settlements to minimize financial exposure while fighting criminal charges aggressively, ensuring a unified strategy that protects your assets and liberty.

Coercion or duress—being pressured into fraud under threat—can be a defense, particularly in cases like wire or bank fraud. You must prove the threat was imminent and credible, negating your intent. Padula Law investigates your role, gathering communications or witness accounts to substantiate coercion, and argues for reduced liability. Our thorough approach ensures the court sees you as a victim, not a willing participant, aiming to dismiss or lessen charges.

While this may vary by state, a fraud conviction, even for minor charges like credit card fraud, can lead to license revocation for CPAs, real estate agents, or similar professionals. State boards view fraud as a breach of trust, often suspending licenses post-conviction. Padula Law works to avoid convictions through dismissals or pleas to non-fraud offenses, preserving your career. We also liaise with licensing boards to argue for leniency, using our expertise to protect your professional standing and future opportunities.

Plea deals in federal fraud cases, like healthcare fraud, can reduce penalties—e.g., cutting a 7-year sentence to 2 years or replacing prison with probation. They’re worthwhile if the evidence is overwhelming, you admit limited fault, or we secure favorable terms such as no restitution. Padula Law evaluates plea offers critically, ensuring they align with your goals. We negotiate aggressively with prosecutors, backed by our case analysis, to secure deals that minimize disruption to your life while avoiding the risks of a full trial.