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Expert Lawyers For Fraud Charges Sunshine Coast, QLD
Fraud offences can be difficult to understand. Fraud offences are covered under Section 408 C of the Queensland Criminal Code 1899 and relate to conduct that is categorised as dishonest, deceptive, corrupt or unethical.
Types of fraud include Centrelink fraud and Tax fraud, but in actuality fraud offences can relate to a wide array of circumstances in which someone gains a benefit or advantage illegally.
Some examples of fraud include:
- Obtaining or misusing property belonging to someone else
- Disadvantaging another person or benefiting from another’s inaccurate understanding of a situation
- Influencing a person or entity to perform illegal activities (or preventing them from performing lawful actions).
Tax offences
Relate to issues such as failing to declare income, claiming deductions for expenses that were not incurred, claiming GST that was not paid, and failing to lodge tax returns. Tax evasion is considered a serious crime and as such penalties can include up to ten years in prison.
Centrelink fraud offences
Occur when someone claims payments which do not apply to their situation. An example might be claiming Job Seeker payments despite working full time. Take a look here for more information on how Smith Criminal Law can help with Centrelink fraud offences.
Fraud cases have serious penalties and can result in up to fourteen years in prison.
Smith Criminal Law: Your Lawyer for Fraud Charges
If you are facing fraud charges the experienced lawyers at Smith Criminal Law are here to help. We have a detailed understanding of criminal law and can provide expert legal advice and representation.
Smith Criminal Law appear in Courts throughout Queensland, so whether your matter is to appear in the Magistrates’ Court, the District Court or the Supreme Court, Smith Criminal Law will be by your side.
Securing an experience lawyer is the crucial first step in fighting the charges against you.
A number of defences may be available to you. In tax fraud cases, intention to defraud the tax agency must be present. If you made an honest mistake, and argument can be built for a lesser penalty. Further, if we can prove necessity, we may be able to successfully defend the charges against you.
If you engage Smith Criminal Law, we will examine the details of your case carefully and establish the best strategy for you to achieve the very best outcome possible for your case.
Equally, if pleading guilty, Smith Criminal Law will work hard to develop a case for leniency, and to provide the Court with reasons to apply lesser penalties (such as community service, a suspended sentence or an ICO) rather than a prison sentence.
If You Have Been Defrauded: Civil Action Available To You
If you have been the victim of fraud you may have grounds to build a civil case. If found guilty, the person who defrauded you would have to pay compensation for any damages caused. For advice on how to proceed in a situation like this, and to position yourself for success, contact Smith Criminal Law today.
We practice law with empathy and understanding, and we are committed to ensuring you achieve the best possible outcome for your case.