Fraud Defense Attorneys in New York & New Jersey

Accused of Fraud? Protect Your Future With Experienced Representation.

Fraud charges cover a wide range of conduct that involves deception, false statements, or misrepresentation for financial or personal gain. In both New York and New Jersey, fraud can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the amount of money involved, the method used, and whether the alleged fraud targeted individuals, businesses, or government agencies. A conviction can result in years of imprisonment, substantial fines, restitution orders, and devastating damage to your career and reputation.

Common Types of Fraud

Fraud charges may include:

  • Credit Card Fraud – unauthorized use of another person’s credit or debit card.
  • Insurance Fraud – filing false claims or exaggerating damages.
  • Bank Fraud – manipulating financial transactions, forged checks, or fraudulent loan applications.
  • Securities Fraud – insider trading, market manipulation, or misrepresentation of investments.
  • Tax Fraud – filing false returns, concealing income, or other attempts to evade tax obligations.
  • Healthcare Fraud – false billing, prescription fraud, or Medicare/Medicaid scams.
  • Identity Theft / Wire Fraud / Mail Fraud – using false information or stolen identities for financial gain.

Fraud Laws in New York

Fraud is prosecuted under multiple statutes in New York, often falling within larceny, forgery, or false statement provisions of the Penal Law. Penalties depend on the type and value of the alleged fraud:

  • Petit Larceny (Misdemeanor): Under $1,000; up to 1 year in jail.
  • Felony Fraud (Grand Larceny & Related Offenses): From Class E felonies (up to 4 years) to Class B felonies (up to 25 years).
  • Specialized statutes address securities fraud, insurance fraud, and healthcare fraud, often carrying enhanced penalties.

Fraud Laws in New Jersey

New Jersey prosecutes fraud under various statutes, including N.J.S.A. §2C:20 (theft by deception) and specific laws governing credit card fraud, insurance fraud, securities fraud, and more. Penalties vary depending on the dollar amount and circumstances:

  • Fourth-Degree Crime: Up to 18 months in prison, fines up to $10,000.
  • Third-Degree Crime: 3–5 years in prison, fines up to $15,000.
  • Second-Degree Crime: 5–10 years in prison, fines up to $150,000.
  • First-Degree Fraud (rare cases, usually large-scale schemes): 10–20 years in prison, fines up to $200,000 or more.

Collateral Consequences of Fraud Convictions

  • A permanent criminal record for crimes of dishonesty
  • Loss of professional licenses (finance, law, medicine, accounting, etc.)
  • Ineligibility for government contracts or regulated industries
  • Immigration consequences for non-citizens
  • Civil lawsuits seeking damages or restitution in addition to criminal penalties

Defense Strategies

Every fraud case is different, but common defenses include:

  • Lack of intent to defraud
  • Mistaken identity or false accusation
  • Errors in financial records or accounting systems
  • Insufficient or unlawfully obtained evidence
  • Entrapment or improper investigative tactics

Why You Need Skilled Legal Counsel

Fraud cases are often complex, involving thousands of documents, financial records, and testimony from experts. Prosecutors dedicate significant resources to securing convictions. Without an experienced defense attorney, the risk of conviction — and severe consequences — is high. A strong defense lawyer in New York or New Jersey can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, negotiate for reduced charges, or fight for full dismissal at trial.