Fraud Attorney St. Petersburg, FL

The Goldman Wetzel criminal defense law firm handles many fraud crime cases in the St. Petersburg. We understand the fear and emotional stresses that accompany fraud and white-collar crime charges. If you are facing fraud charges in or near the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater metro area, you need a criminal defense attorney who understands the local and state criminal justice system and has experience in building a strong defense of those charged with fraud crimes.

We have experience working within the local justice system as well as the State Attorney’s office. We know the prosecutors that will build a case against those facing fraud charges and have a long history of experience dealing with them as well as achieving desirable outcomes for our clients. 

Types of Fraud Charges

There are numerous types of fraud with which a person can be criminally charged. Each is different and comes with its own penalties depending on the charge and circumstances, which will impact the severity of penalties for those convicted. It’s important to understand the different forms of fraud a person can face.

What are the Penalties for Fraud and White Collar Crime Charges?

There are a variety of penalties that a white-collar crime or fraud charge may bring. Some of these penalties including:

  • A fine up to $10,000 and 15 years in prison for second-degree felonies involving credit card fraud [Fla. Stat. §§ 775.082, 775.083]
  • Up to $250,000 in fines and 5 years of prison for bankruptcy fraud [18 U.S.C. § 152]
  • Up to 15 years imprisonment and large fines based on the amount of money or goods stolen; and the number of identities compromised under Federal Identity Theft [18 U.S.C. § 1028]

In instances where an individual is convicted of a federal fraud or white-collar crime, the defendant must pay for the trial in which he or she was convicted, in addition to the prison time and fines.

There are different defenses available for these types of charges, including lack of intent, entrapment and insufficient evidence. If you have been charged with a Florida state or federal fraud or theft crime or believe to be under investigation, contact or call 727-828-3900 to speak with the fraud and theft attorneys at Goldman Wetzel today for a free legal consultation.