Protecting Your Rights Against Fraud Allegations

We are ready to defend those accused of fraud crimes in the following MN counties and beyond:

• Sherburne County
• Wright County
• Anoka County
• Mille Lacs County
• Isanti County
• Scott County
• Dakota County
• Stearns County
• Benton County
• Hennepin County
• Washington County
• Chisago County
• Ramsey County
• Carver County
• Kanabec County
• Pine County

What Qualifies as Misdemeanor Fraud?

Fraud charges in Minnesota are categorized based on the monetary value involved and the specific circumstances of the case. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for anyone facing fraud allegations.

Gross Misdemeanor 

Fraud involving amounts between $500 and $1,000 typically qualifies as a gross misdemeanor in Minnesota. This level of offense carries potential penalties of up to one year in jail and fines reaching $3,000. Common examples include smaller-scale credit card fraud, check fraud with moderate amounts, and certain identity theft cases with limited financial impact. A gross misdemeanor conviction, while less severe than a felony, still creates a significant criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licensing opportunities.

Felony

Fraud cases involving amounts exceeding $1,000 are generally classified as felonies in Minnesota. Penalties increase with the amount involved, with thresholds at $5,000, $35,000, and $150,000, each carrying progressively harsher consequences. Felony fraud convictions can result in several years of imprisonment, substantial fines, and restitution orders. Additionally, certain types of fraud automatically qualify as felonies regardless of the amount, including mortgage fraud, insurance fraud schemes, and fraud targeting vulnerable adults or government programs. A felony fraud conviction creates permanent barriers to employment and significantly impacts civil rights. 

Types of Fraud Charges in Minnesota

Fraud charges can encompass various activities, each with its own legal nuances and potential penalties. Common types of fraud offenses include:

Credit Card Fraud

Involves unauthorized use of payment methods, including skimming, phishing, and counterfeit cards. Don't navigate the legal process alone if you or a loved one is facing a credit card fraud charge. Hire a fraud defense attorney in Minnesota with a solid reputation.

Mortgage Fraud

Mortgage fraud involves providing false information or omitting facts during the mortgage process, such as misrepresenting income and property value or submitting falsified documents. Whether you face allegations of intentional deception or application errors, consulting with a Minnesota fraud defense attorney is essential to protecting your rights.

Insurance Fraud

Insurance fraud occurs when individuals deceive insurance companies to receive payment they are not entitled to. Common insurance fraud examples include staging accidents, falsifying claims, and exaggerating injuries.

Tax Fraud

This involves intentionally falsifying tax returns through underreported income, inflated deductions, or hidden offshore accounts. Be sure to hire a fraud defense lawyer for fraud cases when facing allegations of tax fraud.

Healthcare Fraud

This involves falsifying claims or misrepresenting facts to obtain unentitled healthcare benefits or payments, including non-provided service billing, upcoding, and illegal referral kickbacks.

Check Fraud & Forgery 

Check fraud is the illegal use of checks to acquire funds that do not exist within the account via forging signatures, altering check details, using stolen checks, and other methods.

Forgery

Forgery in Minnesota involves creating, altering, or using falsified documents with the intent to defraud. The state distinguishes between ordinary forgery and aggravated forgery based on the document type and potential harm.

Ordinary forgery typically involves documents of lesser importance or potential damage, such as:

• Falsifying a signature on a personal check under $250
• Creating fake receipts or invoices
• Altering non-official documents
• Falsifying letters or basic contracts

Aggravated forgery involves documents with greater legal significance or potential harm, including:

• Government-issued identification documents
• Public records like birth certificates or marriage licenses
• Legal documents such as wills, deeds, or contracts
• Commercial instruments involving significant monetary value
• Court documents or official legal filings

The penalties for ordinary forgery may include up to five years imprisonment and fines of up to $10,000. In comparison, aggravated forgery can result in sentences of up to 10 years and fines reaching $20,000, depending on the specific circumstances and document type involved.

Identity Theft

Identity theft involves wrongfully obtaining and using another person’s personal information, such as Social Security numbers or credit card data, for financial gain. With penalties increasing based on victim count and losses, having experienced legal representation is crucial. See our theft page for more details on identity theft defense.

Mistakes to Avoid When Charged with Fraud

Fraud charges carry heavy repercussions, making it important to avoid mistakes that could jeopardize your defense. Speaking to authorities without legal counsel can severely harm your case, as any statement can be used against you. Consult a Minnesota criminal fraud defense attorney before engaging with investigators or law enforcement and preserve all potential evidence. These essential precautions, combined with an experienced criminal fraud lawyer in MN to represent you, can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome.

Why Choose Universal Defense, LLC?

Universal Defense, LLC stands out for several reasons:

• • Proven Track Record: Richard LeRoy has over 30 years of experience in criminal defense. His extensive knowledge of Minnesota's legal system enables him and his team to provide valid representation.

• • Personalized Defense Strategy: We take the time to understand your situation and tailor our defense strategies accordingly.

• • Aggressive Defense: We are dedicated to fighting for your rights and will provide proactive and aggressive defense tactics.

• • Community Involvement: With 25+ years of nonprofit work and specialty court practice in Hennepin County, Richard LeRoy is deeply committed to the community and fighting for justice for all.

If facing fraud charges, secure experienced legal representation immediately. Contact Universal Defense today to discuss your case with a seasoned Minnesota fraud defense lawyer. At Universal Defense, our knowledgeable attorneys are ready to guide you through the legal process, provide effective counsel, and work tirelessly to defend your rights.