Outstanding Defense Lawyers For Tough Criminal Cases

Salinas Fraud Defense Attorneys

Defense of Insurance Fraud & Embezzlement in California

Fraud crimes are those crimes involving theft and deceit generally categorized as “white collar crimes.” While violence is not usually a factor or motive in fraud, these crimes are still taken very seriously by the California criminal justice system. They may be charged as misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the facts of the case, with penalties that can impact your life well into the future.

The Worthington Law Centre has focused exclusively on criminal law since its inception, which allows our Salinas fraud defense attorneys to bring a knowledgeable and sophisticated approach to the defense of anyone facing these charges.

Our Salinas fraud defense lawyers have represented individuals facing both misdemeanors and felonies for a combined 43+ years. Recognized as professional specialists in this field, we can protect you across the full spectrum of white-collar criminal charges through the development of effective defense strategies.

Need an attorney for fraud? Call (831) 704-1852 to schedule a consultation with our Salinas fraud defense lawyer or contact us online today.

What is Fraud?

Fraud crimes generally occur when an individual commits an act that causes some type of harm or loss to the victim, resulting in an undeserved benefit to the perpetrator. They most often involve financial gain as the benefit.

These crimes are charged as misdemeanors or felonies at the discretion of the prosecutor, based on the amount of loss or harm done as well as the criminal history, if any, of the accused. Some fraud crimes are automatically charged as felonies per California law.

Examples of Fraud Crimes:

  • Mortgage fraud
  • Insurance fraud
  • Health care fraud
  • Credit card fraud
  • Workers’ compensation fraud charges against medical professionals
  • Embezzlement
  • Public corruption
  • Bribery or extortion
  • Money laundering
  • Sunshine law violations against public officials
  • Election fraud or campaign finance violations
  • Identity theft
  • Forgery
  • Passing bad checks

Penalties for Fraud in CA

Penalties can range from up to a year in jail to extensive prison terms, heavy fines, and government seizure of property or money involved in the crime. Since fraud can also be charged as a federal offense, a conviction can result in a federal prison sentence between 20 and 30 years, as well as a fine not exceeding $250,000.

Because fraud crimes are considered to fall under the category of “moral turpitude,” a conviction can cause deportation orders for alien residents. These convictions can also result in the loss of professional licenses.

Why You Must Hire an Attorney for Fraud

Due to the severity of the criminal penalties you face, one of the most important steps to take to defend yourself is hiring a criminal defense lawyer who has experience handling fraud cases. An attorney can provide you with the best possible defense against the charges.

Here are several reasons why should hire our attorney when facing fraud charges:

  • Our legal team knows how to navigate the criminal justice system, help you understand the charges and the potential consequences you face, and defend you inside and outside the courtroom.

  • We can analyze the evidence and the charges against you, determine the legal defenses that apply to your case, and file the necessary motions in court.

  • Our firm will protect your constitutional rights, such as your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney when being questioned by authorities. We will also ensure that law enforcement officials follow proper procedures during the investigation and arrest.

  • In some cases, we may be able to negotiate a plea agreement with state prosecutors, leading to reduced charges or a lighter sentence.

  • If your case goes to trial, our team can present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and argue your side on your behalf in court.

Let Us Protect Your Future

Our Salinas fraud defense lawyers’ experience with the defense of state or federal fraud charges can give you a significant advantage toward the favorable resolution of serious felony charges. It can also help you avoid related problems involving professional licensing, immigration status, or future educational opportunities.

We will vigorously protect your legal rights as we take action to build an effective defense on your behalf.

Contact The Worthington Law Centre to speak to a Salinas fraud defense attorney at (831) 704-1852 today.

Notable Cases & Results

  • Dismissed Domestic Violence Allegation
  • Reduced to Misdemeanor; No Jail Time Imposed. Possession of Assault Weapon
  • Probation, Home Confinement and No Sex-Offender Man Accused of Using Craig's List to Contact Minor for Sex
  • Dismissed Rape Charges
  • Probation Molest Victim Charged with Attempted Murder of His Assailant
  • Convicted of Lesser Offense Voluntary Manslaughter
    Coach from Robert Louis Stevenson School Charged with Murder of His Daughter's Boyfriend Convicted of Lesser Offense of Voluntary Manslaughter
  • Misdemeanor Treatment with Probation and No Jail Local Retired Dentist Charged with Felony Child Endangerment Facing a Six Year Prison Term
  • Probation and Only One Strike 18-Year-Old Young Man Facing Six Years in State Prison and Two Strikes
  • Probation 28 Year Old Salinas Man Facing 13 Years in State Prison for Weapons Charges with Gang Enhancements
  • Not Guilty Verdicts Sleep Technician Accused of Touching Patients in a Sexual Manner
    Sleep Technician Accused of Touching Patients in a Sexual Manner Receives Not Guilty Verdicts on All Charges Except One Resulting in a Hung Jury

Our Testimonials

See What Our Clients Have to Say
  • “This has been anxiety-filled process, but we could not imagine having hired a better firm to get us though this process. Our gratitude for everything.”

    John & Cynthia B.

  • “I was glad I called Tom & his group”

    Mel Jenkins

  • “Successful results with my criminal case that was my concern.”

    Mrs. Cortez

  • “My family and I will never forget all that you and your staff have done for us.”

    August J S.

  • “Tom and Brian Worthington are the real deal!”

    Nick B.

  • “The hard work, your time, your perseverance, your dedication and your efforts, helped in the end result of Emma’s Case.”

    Guadalupe B.

  • “On behalf of my entire family, thank you so much, Brian, for your amazing efforts and superhuman compassion as you shepherded us through this awful experience.”

    James K.

  • “Hard work, diligence and perseverance. ”

    Scott

  • “Worthington law firm worked at providing the highest quality of professionalism and attention to detail that I needed to prove my innocence and to win my case.”

    Darla M.

  • “I personally feel you did a superb job, and I thank you once again. ”

    Mario C.

  • “I feel fortunate that I made the best decision to hire Tom Worthington”

    Sandy K.

  • “From the very beginning of my legal tribulation, Mr. Brian Worthington and his team- showed genuine interest.”

    Lee

  • “I can’t express enough how satisfied I was with your services and your professional staff. ”

    Former Client

  • “No words can truly express our complete satisfaction with their services.”

    Hipolity & Leticia M.