Fraud is a serious crime and, if you’re involved in a fraud case, it’s important to seek the right legal advice as soon as you can. This can help you navigate through the legal system and get the best possible outcome. ABV Solicitors have a proven track record of helping people who have been accused of fraud.
This post will explore some of the different types of fraud, as well as what you need to do if you’re suspected of committing fraud.
While fraud in general is a serious accusation to be faced with, there are different types of fraud and different degrees of severity. It’s important to understand what type of fraud you’re being investigated for, as well what which authority is investigating you, so that your legal team can mount the most effective defence.
Some common types of fraud and similar offenses people are investigated for include:
The types of fraud investigations that ABV Solicitors can help you navigate are:
One of the things that can make a fraud investigation hard to navigate is the fact that there are so many different parties that can launch an investigation. They often have different ways of instigating an investigation, meaning that it’s important to make a note of which authority is looking into you so that you know how to proceed.
Often, you won’t know that you’re being suspected of fraud until a formal investigation begins. Depending on the investigating party, they may notify you, or you might be asked to attend an interview.
In many cases, you have already been investigated or on the radar for a while before your first interview. These investigations might involve looking through your financial records for discrepencies, gathering witness statements, trying to establish motive, and trying to find potential victims who have been affected by the alleged fraud.
The subtlety of these investigations can make it difficult to mount a defense before the investigating authorities make more disrputive moves, including restraint orders that freeze your assets.
So, even if you haven’t been informed of a formal investigation, look out for some potential warning signs like:
You need to get legal advice as soon as you’re made aware that you’re the subject of a fraud investigation. Bear in mind that, once you’re notified of the investigation, you’re often already several steps behind. This is the point when investigators might be more public and might seize assets, conduct searches, and interview you.
If you suspect you’re being investigated, it’s a good idea to get ahead of the game and contact your solicitors right away. This way, you can be ready with legal advice so you know how to conduct yourself.
In general, it’s a good idea to cooperate with the investigation. But remember that you don’t have to tell the authorities everything that comes into your head, because this can cause you to inadvertently incriminate yourself. Always talk to a fraud solicitor before any interviews and, if possible, make sure they can accompany you to make sure that your interests are represented and your legal rights are upheld.
Even if you’re found not guilty of fraud, the investigation itself can massively impact your personal life, your business life, and your finances. If you are found guilty, you may face fines, prison time, confiscation orders, and a major hit to your personal and professional reputation.
In some cases, a fraud conviction can make it harder or impossible to get certain jobs, no matter how well qualified you are. This can have lifelong consequences, even years after your conviction.
During the investigation, restraint orders might be put on your assets that are suspected of being involved in the case, meaning that you can’t access chunks of your finances. This can be devastating to people and businesses alike, as you still have to try to navigate the rest of your life. ABV Solicitors can help you proactively challenge restraint orders where possible.
Your friends, family, colleagues, and business partners might also be interviewed. This can lead people to treat you differently simply because they know you’ve been investigated for fraud. This can make you and your business seem less trustworthy in the meantime, and sometimes this damage never goes away even if you’re found not guilty.
You can also be dragged in for interviews and your belongings may be subjected to searches. This is embarrassing when it’s public and can be disruptive to your life in the meantime, as it interferes with your schedule.
Whether you have received notification that you’re being investigated for fraud or you simply suspect an investigation may be taking place, get in touch with ABV Fraud Solicitors as soon as possible. Our legal team can guide you through the fraud investigation process and make sure that your rights aren’t infridged. We can also provide legal advice so you always make the best choices and get the best outcome possible.
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