NYC
Fraud Lawyer

NYC Fraud Lawyer

NYC Fraud Attorney

Being charged with fraud can have profound and far-reaching impacts on a person’s life, and a conviction can derail it completely. Fraud allegations can affect future employment and housing opportunities, social mobility, and much more. If you are a New Yorker facing fraud charges, you don’t need to face them by yourself. Contact an experienced NYC fraud lawyer for help.

What Constitutes Fraud?

In essence, fraud consists of either providing false information or withholding true information for personal or financial gain. Both individuals and business entities can commit fraud or be victims of it. Unfortunately, fraud is very common. The Federal Trade Commission reported that American consumers lost over $12.5 billion because of fraud in 2024. Here are some common contexts for fraud that might result in criminal charges:

Identity theft. Identity theft and other consumer fraud schemes are prevalent, especially with the increase in online transactions over the past two decades.
Phishing. This involves using phone calls, text messages, or emails to try to get people’s personal information for the purpose of stealing money or impersonating them.
Insurance fraud. Insurance fraud involves filing false insurance claims or intentionally causing losses in order to collect insurance money.
Business fraud. Sometimes, businesses conceal the reality of their financials from consumers and shareholders. For example, companies may hide losses or report inflated revenue in order to encourage people to invest.

These are just a few examples of fraud. The definition is quite broad, and there are myriad activities that fall under the fraud umbrella.

What Are the Potential Consequences of a Fraud Conviction?

Because the definition of fraud encompasses so many different offenses, there is a wide range of official charges and potential penalties that can accompany fraud activity. Many fraud offenses can be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the amount of money involved in the criminal activity.

For example, according to New York law, identity theft in the first degree is defined by theft exceeding $2,000 and is charged as a Class D felony. On the other hand, identity theft in the third degree is a Class A misdemeanor. For an identity theft charge to be classified as a third-degree offense, the victim’s losses cannot exceed $500.

When Should You Hire a Fraud Lawyer?

Fraud charges, no matter the degree, are serious. If you know you are under investigation for fraud, even if no formal charges have been filed, you should hire a fraud lawyer. The sooner you bring an experienced attorney into your case, the sooner they can begin reviewing all of the available information and building a defense for you.

One benefit to hiring a lawyer as early as possible is that early involvement gives your attorney the chance to oversee aspects of the criminal proceedings that take place before formal filing of charges. Law enforcement officers, prosecuting attorneys, and other justice system officials are required to follow procedural rules as they collect evidence against people who are accused of crimes, and sometimes they make mistakes that violate a defendant’s rights.

FAQs About NYC Fraud Laws

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Fraud Lawyer in New York City?

The cost to hire an attorney to defend you against fraud charges in New York City can vary widely. The cost of a lawyer depends on several factors, including how complex your case is, how much time your lawyer expects to spend on it, and the lawyer’s hourly rate. Investing in a skilled, experienced attorney can represent the difference between a conviction and an acquittal.

What Court Handles Fraud Cases in New York City?

Misdemeanor fraud cases and felony fraud cases are handled by separate courts in New York City. Misdemeanor cases are heard in the New York City Criminal Court, whereas the Supreme Court of New York handles felonies. The location of a trial or other proceeding depends on the location of the alleged criminal activity. Both the New York City Criminal Court and the Supreme Court of New York are housed in various buildings in the five boroughs.

Does a Fraud Conviction Always Mean Jail Time?

No, a fraud conviction does not always mean jail time. Of course, the likelihood of a jail sentence depends on the kind of fraud and the degree, but some fraud offenses are more likely to result in probation or community service. The state of New York does not prescribe mandatory prison sentences for fraud cases, so judges have a great degree of discretion.

What if I Did Not Know I Was Committing Fraud?

If you did not know that your actions could constitute fraud, your attorney can use that fact as a cornerstone of your defense. Part of the definition of fraud is that the offender knew their actions were deceptive. So, if you and your attorney are able to demonstrate that you were acting in good faith and from a position of misinformation or ignorance, that may be a good strategic starting point for your defense.

Contact the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC

At the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC, we have the experience and legal knowledge to help you defend your rights and your reputation. Contact us today to consult with an attorney.

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