What's happening?
Fraud charges cover a wide range of conduct involving dishonesty for financial or other benefit, such as obtaining money or property by deception, misusing a position of trust, or falsifying documents. These matters are often based on financial records, banking evidence, and correspondence gathered over an extended investigation.
Fraud investigations can take considerable time to complete, and charges are sometimes laid well after the alleged conduct occurred. The evidence relied on can be voluminous, and carefully working through it is an important part of understanding the strength of the case.
What could it mean for me?
- Fraud convictions can have a significant impact on future employment, particularly in finance, accounting or trust-based roles.
- The amount allegedly involved and the sophistication of the conduct affect how seriously a matter is treated.
- Fraud matters often involve extensive documentary evidence that needs careful review.
- Restitution or repayment may be a relevant factor considered by the court.
- Some fraud matters proceed in the District Court depending on their seriousness and complexity.
What are my options?
- Contesting the charge where the evidence does not establish dishonest intent.
- Negotiating the scope of charges where multiple counts arise from a single course of conduct.
- Pleading guilty and addressing matters such as restitution and personal circumstances in mitigation.
- Working through complex financial evidence to identify inconsistencies or gaps in the prosecution case.
- Exploring case conferencing options for matters in the District Court.
What happens next?
- Avoid discussing the allegations with anyone connected to the matter without advice.
- Gather any financial records or correspondence relevant to your account of events.
- Attend your first court date and begin reviewing the brief of evidence once served.
- Discuss with your lawyer the volume and nature of the evidence relied upon.
- Consider what steps, such as repayment arrangements, may be relevant to how the matter is resolved.
How can MGE Lawyers help?
Fraud matters often involve large volumes of financial and documentary evidence, and we work through this material methodically to understand exactly what is alleged and whether the evidence supports it. We explain complex financial issues in plain language so you understand your position.
Where appropriate, we assist with negotiating the scope of charges or preparing thorough mitigation material addressing your circumstances, including any steps taken towards repayment or restitution.