Fraud Defense Attorney in Murrieta & Temecula, California
Since 1999, the Law Office of Nic Cocis has provided experienced and assertive criminal defense representation for individuals charged with fraud and theft-related offenses throughout Riverside County, including Murrieta, Temecula, Wildomar, Menifee, Lake Elsinore, Hemet, Perris, Banning, Corona, Winchester, and surrounding communities.
Fraud charges are serious white-collar offenses that can expose defendants to substantial fines, restitution, incarceration, and long-term damage to their professional and personal reputations. Early involvement of an experienced fraud defense lawyer can make a critical difference in the outcome of your case.
Types of Fraud Charges We Defend:
Fraud cases in California generally fall into several broad categories. Our office routinely defends clients accused of:
Government Fraud
Government fraud typically involves allegations of deception to obtain public benefits or reduce financial obligations owed to the government. Common examples include welfare fraud, unemployment fraud, and falsification of tax returns.
Consumer Fraud
Consumer fraud often involves insurance-related allegations, such as submitting false claims or exaggerating injuries after an accident to obtain insurance benefits. These cases are frequently complex and document-intensive.
Employee Fraud and Embezzlement
Employee fraud occurs when an individual is accused of defrauding an employer, such as embezzling funds, falsifying employee records, or misappropriating company property. These cases often overlap with grand theft or embezzlement charges.
Fraud and White-Collar Crime Penalties in California
Fraud is frequently charged alongside other theft offenses, including grand theft and embezzlement. If convicted, penalties may depend on several factors, including:
- The amount of money or property involved
- The number of alleged victims
- The duration and sophistication of the alleged scheme
Under California Penal Code section 186.11, certain fraud-based offenses may be charged as an aggravated white-collar crime, significantly increasing potential exposure to prison time, fines, and restitution orders.
Possible consequences of a fraud conviction include jail or prison sentences, substantial financial penalties, mandatory restitution, probation, and community service.
Local Fraud Defense Representation in Menifee, Murrieta and Temecula
Fraud allegations can be particularly stressful for Menifee, Murrieta and Temecula residents, where professional standing, business relationships, and community reputation matter. Riverside County aggressively prosecutes fraud cases, and even an investigation—before formal charges are filed—can have lasting consequences.
At the Law Office of Nic Cocis, we understand the local courts, prosecutors, and investigative agencies involved in fraud cases. This local insight allows us to craft strategic, case-specific defenses designed to protect your rights and minimize disruption to your life and livelihood.
Whether you are facing accusations involving government benefits, tax matters, insurance claims, or workplace-related fraud, our office provides focused and discreet representation from the earliest stages of the case.
Protect Your Rights with an Experienced Fraud Defense Lawyer
You are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. An experienced criminal defense attorney can investigate the allegations, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and pursue reduced charges, dismissal, or alternative resolutions when appropriate.
If you are under investigation or have been charged with fraud in Menifee, Murrieta, Temecula, or anywhere in Riverside County, do not wait to seek legal advice.
For a free consultation to discuss your specific charges and to learn how we can be of assistance, contact our office by calling (951) 666-2600.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the potential consequences of a fraud conviction in California?
Penalties for fraud convictions may include jail or prison time, significant fines, restitution to alleged victims, probation, and community service. The severity of punishment depends on factors such as financial loss, number of victims, and whether the offense qualifies as an aggravated white-collar crime.
How can a Menifee, Murrieta & Temecula fraud defense lawyer help my case?
A local fraud defense attorney can analyze the evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, negotiate with prosecutors, and advocate for reduced charges or dismissal. Early legal representation is especially important in complex fraud and white-collar cases.
