Knoxville Fraud Defense Attorneys
Experienced Defense Against Fraud Charges in Knox and Anderson Counties
Fraud crimes in Tennessee can have serious consequences. Those who have been charged could face jail time and hefty fines. Additionally, a fraud conviction can make it challenging to apply for and secure employment, qualify for loans, or even obtain a professional license. That is why it is crucial to have an experienced lawyer on your side if you have been arrested or charged. At S|D Law, our Knoxville fraud attorneys understand the complexity and severity of these kinds of charges. This is why they advocate tirelessly for the people who turn to our firm to defend them. To find out more about how we can help you, schedule a free consultation. We offer these in-person or virtually, so getting the information you need and moving ahead with us is convenient.
Give us a call at (865) 426-1646 or contact us online.
Types of Fraud Crimes in Tennessee
Both the Tennessee state and federal governments can prosecute fraud crimes. The penalties for a conviction will vary depending on the severity of the fraud, its type, and a person’s criminal record.
Fraud crimes take many forms, including:
- Bank
- Check
- Credit Card
- Tax
- Insurance
- Embezzlement
- Loan
- Investment
- Securities
- Identity
The Differences Between Civil and Criminal Fraud
Fraud offenses can be criminal or civil. The key difference between the two is the nature of the consequences. The government prosecutes criminal fraud, and it carries the possibility of incarceration and fines. In contrast, individuals who allege to have been harmed by fraudulent activity can sue. Civil cases do not carry the possibility of incarceration but can require the guilty party to pay restitution.
Another important difference between these two fraud categorizations is the way they are proven in court. In civil cases, one party needs to only make a more compelling argument than the other party to win. In criminal cases, however, the prosecution must present evidence that demonstrates beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant engaged in fraudulent activity.
Is Fraud a Felony or Misdemeanor?
In Tennessee, fraud can be classified as either a felony or a misdemeanor. The deciding factors are the method of fraud and the amount of money or value of goods that a person obtained fraudulently. For example, if a person is to steal someone’s credit card and spends less than $500, they would face misdemeanor charges. Certain types of severe tax fraud, as another example, are Class E felony offenses.
Penalties for Fraud in Tennessee
For lesser fraud crimes, a person could face up to 11 months and 29 days in jail, in addition to fines that can amount to $2,500. Some of the most serious fraud crimes can result in up to 30 years in prison and fines as high as $25,000. It is important to note that both Tennessee and the federal government can prosecute fraud offenses. The penalties for a conviction at the federal level can vary from 6 months to 30 years in jail and fines between $2,500 and $25,000.
Turn to S|D Law
If you have been charged with a fraud crime in Knox or Anderson Counties, do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present. Doing so could allow the prosecution to obtain evidence that they could use to prosecute you. Fraud cases are highly complex and vary from crime to crime. For the individualized defense you need, turn to S|D Law. Our Knoxville fraud lawyers have the experience and skill to take on both criminal and civil fraud cases. No matter your situation, our attorneys and firm staff can work tirelessly for you.
To schedule a free in-person or virtual consultation, call (865) 426-1646 or reach out to us online.
