Posted on February 14, 2024 in Criminal Defense

Facing criminal charges related to Medicaid fraud can be an incredibly frightening and confusing ordeal. For those confronted with Medicaid fraud allegations or charges, arming yourself with key knowledge on common offenses, penalties, defense strategies, and possible negotiating outcomes with prosecutors can help you navigate this legal storm. Having a Texas criminal defense lawyer on your side is beneficial with your reputation on the line.

What Are the Most Frequent Medicaid Fraud Offenses Alleged?

While improper billing practices like charging for services never performed represents classic Medicaid fraud, other common allegations include upcoding services to receive higher reimbursements, billing separately for care bundles in an unallowed practice called unbundling, billing for unnecessary tests and procedures, referring patients to medical companies you own for self-serving financial gain, or using a patient or colleague’s Medicaid ID number without authorization to submit false claims. Even inadvertent billing errors can prompt fraud accusations and charges.

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 Posted on January 31, 2024 in Criminal Defense

When you are charged with wire fraud or involvement in a texting scam, the first step is to understand precisely what you have been accused of. Wire fraud uses electronic communications to obtain money or property under false pretenses. On the other hand, text message scams typically involve sending texts pretending to be a legitimate company to obtain sensitive information. Review the specific allegations and charges with your Illinois criminal defense attorney.

Gathering Evidence and Building Your Case

The next vital step when facing charges is gathering evidence and documentation that could help prove your innocence or at least cast doubt on the prosecution’s claims. For example, if you are accused of a texting scam, providing phone records showing you did not send questionable messages can undermine the case against you. Or, with a wire fraud allegation, you may be able to demonstrate bank accounts proving you did not unlawfully obtain any of the purported victim’s money. Determine what evidence you can access and work with your lawyer to get anything relevant. The more evidence in your favor, the better.

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 Posted on January 24, 2024 in Criminal Defense

Simply possessing illegal drugs does not automatically mean someone will be charged with intent to sell or distribute. However, prosecutors can use various types of circumstantial evidence to build a case that a defendant intended to sell or deliver drugs in their possession. If you get charged with intent to sell, a Texas criminal defense attorney may help.

Amount of Drugs

One of the first things prosecutors look at is the quantity of drugs recovered. Possession of a small, user-appropriate amount likely indicates personal use. But possession of large quantities—like multiple pounds of marijuana or hundreds of pills—shows an intent to distribute. There is no definitive threshold, but prosecutors know that dealers often possess more drugs than any one person could use before they expire.

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 Posted on January 17, 2024 in Criminal Defense

Identity theft is when you use someone else’s personal information without their consent to commit fraud or other crimes. Aggravated identity theft takes this a step further by using someone’s identity while committing serious offenses. These crimes carry harsh penalties on top of any punishment for the underlying offense. Those accused of aggravated ID theft in Texas face multiple charges and should seek legal counsel immediately. If you are facing a charge like this, a Texas criminal defense lawyer can help.

Using Identities to Commit Terrorism or National Security Crimes

One of the most severe forms of aggravated identity theft involves using someone else’s name or documents like social security numbers while engaging in acts of terrorism or crimes threatening national security. For example, someone may use a stolen identity to gain access to restricted areas, information, or materials that can be used for attacks or espionage. The terrorism enhancement under federal sentencing guidelines brings a minimum two-year prison sentence for aggravated ID theft convictions.

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 Posted on January 04, 2024 in Criminal Defense

Being arrested for an alleged carjacking can be scary and overwhelming. However, there are important steps to take immediately if you face criminal charges like robbery or theft of a motor vehicle in Texas. Working quickly with a Texas criminal defense attorney to respond to accusations and build an effective legal defense for your case is crucial.

Get Legal Help Immediately

If questioned by police about an alleged carjacking, politely decline to answer questions or make any statements until you have legal representation. Anything you say can be used against you, so it is best to exercise your right to remain silent. Once charged with a crime, get in touch with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer understands the complex carjacking laws and defense strategies that apply to your case. They can advise you on the following steps to protect your rights.

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 Posted on December 29, 2023 in Criminal Defense

Discovering you face criminal charges for allegedly planning or preparing to manufacture illegal drugs sparks justified panic. Being accused of a felony offense with hefty penalties leads to urgent, strategic legal guidance. A Texas criminal defense lawyer is someone you want in your corner when you face a drug charge.

Say Nothing Without Your Lawyer

When questioned after arrest, politely decline to answer queries or make statements until your criminal defense lawyer is present. Be cooperative but firm, invoking the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you. Let your attorney speak for you once appointed. Sign nothing without their review.

Understand the Charges

Charges like possession of drug paraphernalia, prohibited chemicals and equipment, or other circumstantial evidence suggest early-stage planning and preparation. However, Texas statute also includes the separate charge of “Intent to Manufacture” controlled substances like methamphetamine, which alleges clear intent to produce drugs based on credible evidence seized. Know precisely what you are accused of.

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 Posted on December 28, 2023 in Federal Crimes

Facing a federal-level type of charge of fraud can be overwhelming, but you can have the opportunity to seek legal representation and see what options you may have. An Illinois criminal defense lawyer can help see what defense you may have for the allegations.

Seek a Lawyer’s Help

Getting legal representation, specifically with experience in litigating complex cyber fraud, identity theft, and wire offenses, can prepare you with the best prospects of defeating allegations and avoiding convictions carrying up to 30 years of imprisonment. Navigating federal indictments goes far beyond typical state charges. Expert guidance may reduce perceived criminality early.

Cooperate Carefully During the Entire Process

If you receive a subpoena related to your website’s business activities or finances, contact a lawyer immediately. Never ignore a subpoena, but do not automatically share extensive information either. Politely decline to discuss details in the early stages of an investigation by asserting your Fifth Amendment rights. Even if your relationships with various parties seem ethically uncertain but potentially legal, wait until your lawyer can review the specifics before providing information.

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 Posted on December 15, 2023 in Criminal Defense

Arson charges at the federal level are complex. They come with severe penalties, including years in prison. If federal agents accuse you of arson, it is critical to take the proper legal steps to protect yourself. A Texas lawyer can help you determine the best next step you should take if you find yourself in this situation.

Know the Specifics of Federal Arson Laws

Unlike state arson laws, which vary, federal arson charges follow uniform legal guidelines nationwide. Specifically, federal law prohibits using fire or explosives to willfully destroy or attempt to destroy any building, vehicle, or other real or personal property used in commerce. Commerce refers to any business-related activities or events which affect interstate trade or transportation.

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 Posted on December 04, 2023 in Criminal Defense

Being suspected of embezzlement can turn your life upside down. These allegations can damage your reputation and lead to intense scrutiny of your finances and career history. If you believe accusations of embezzlement against you are false, it is critical to respond appropriately to avoid wrongly going to jail. A Texas attorney can help you fight back against this claim.

Be Careful What You Say

It is understandable to feel shocked, angry, or confused if accused of embezzlement out of nowhere. You may be tempted to confront your accusers immediately or adamantly profess your innocence. However, anything you say or do after an accusation could be used against you or mischaracterized. So first, take a breath and refrain from making statements you cannot walk back.

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 Posted on November 30, 2023 in Criminal Defense

When a corporation is charged with large-scale money laundering, years of incarceration often seem like the only outcome. However, there are alternatives to prison, depending on case specifics and negotiated pleas. Securing non-prison sentences involves thorough investigation and creativity from a Texas lawyer.

Determine Eligibility for Pretrial Diversion

For first-time corporate offenders, pretrial diversion programs may offer an alternative pathway while providing accountability. Options like restorative justice sessions aim to avoid prolonged prosecutions when constructive intervention could serve the public interest. However, required admissions of misconduct may conflict with a defendant’s interests. A lawyer will carefully weigh eligibility criteria and expected outcomes to determine if attempting this early resolution avenue will benefit the corporation.

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