RSSLos Angeles Criminal Defense Blog
What Is a Fraudulent Insurance Claim?
Fraud allegations against you or your business can seriously harm your reputation. In addition to civil penalties, insurance fraud can also result in criminal prosecution. There are several types of activities that fall under the heading of insurance fraud. These offenses are vigorously investigated and prosecuted in California. If convicted, you face stiff fines and serious jail time.
State and federal prosecutors advance their careers by getting high conviction rates. They hate to lose, and they’ll come after you with everything they’ve got to win a case.
Legal Penalties and Defenses for Fraudulent Asset Transfer
Concealing assets from creditors is the most common form of bankruptcy fraud. Hiding assets during bankruptcy proceedings is a criminal offense under federal and state law in California that carries strict penalties including jail time.
If you are being investigated or facing charges for bankruptcy fraud, contact the experienced criminal defense attorneys at Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP right away. We have a proven track record of success defending clients in state and federal prosecutions.
Who Is Held Responsible for Invoice Fraud?
Invoice fraud is a type of expense fraud that involves sending fake or inflated invoices to a business. Perpetrators may intentionally invoice for more than the correct amount, prompting companies to overpay, or they may invoice for goods or services the company never received. This crime may also involve double invoicing – sending duplicate invoices for the same products or services.
Personal Use of Business Funds: How Is It Prosecuted?
When business owners use business funds for personal expenses, it is bad practice that can lead to operational, legal, and tax problems. Using company funds as a personal piggy bank for one’s own benefit is not only a breach of fiduciary duty, but also unlawful. For one thing, according to the IRS, personal expenses are not eligible as business expense deductions.
Can You Still Be Charged with Arson if You Start a Fire Accidentally?
Under California law, the legal definition of arson reads as follows at California Penal Code Section 451: “A person is guilty of arson when he or she willfully and maliciously sets fire to or burns or causes to be burned or who aids, counsels, or procures the burning of, any structure, forest land, or property.” This offense is charged as a felony.
To charge you with the crime of arson, the prosecution must prove that you acted both willfully and maliciously. “Willfully” means the act was committed willingly and on purpose. “Maliciously” means it was done with the intent to commit a wrongful act, or with unlawful intent to injure, defraud, or annoy another person. If you accidentally started a fire, you cannot be charged with arson, because you did not start it intentionally.
What Are “Cooked Books”? What Charges Could It Lead to?
“Cooked books” is a slang term for accounting records in which facts or figures have been altered illegally or dishonestly. Some companies use various tactics to manipulate their financial records and improve their results. Sophisticated accounting techniques can be used to overstate a company’s profitability.
When Does Sexual Harassment Become Sexual Abuse?
Sexual harassment and abuse can encompass a variety of behaviors in varying degrees of severity. If you are facing a claim of sexual harassment or abuse it will be imperative to have an experienced attorney to help you navigate these claims.
Facing Los Angeles Grand Theft Auto Charges?
Grand Theft Auto is a serious charge relating to the unlawful taking and moving of a vehicle with the intent to keep it. It can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony and can carry a sentence of up to three years in prison. It’s important to obtain skilled and experienced legal representation to help navigate these charges.
SEC Investigations 101
The SEC investigates various types of cases and charges to ensure optimal functioning of the securities markets. If you are currently being investigated by the SEC, you’ll want an experienced attorney on your side to help you understand and protect your rights.
What To Expect Following an Indictment
A federal indictment represents the end of a government investigation and confirms that you’re suspected of committing a crime. An indictment generally implies that one must appear in court. However, despite being served an indictment, you may still resolve your case before a court verdict. In order to resolve your case postindictment and prehearing, it’s essential to understand all of the possibilities available and leverage these in your favor. Five potential outcomes follow a federal indictment: