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In Need of a Fraud and Theft Defense Lawyer in East Lansing, Michigan?

At Ben Hall Law, our skilled East Lansing criminal defense attorneys represent individuals throughout Michigan who have been charged with theft or fraud, so they have the legal knowledge and resources to make informed decisions about the direction of their cases.

Our Ingham County fraud and theft defense lawyers have an intimate understanding of how the prosecutor’s office approaches criminal cases and know when they are willing to provide the best deal available for each of our client’s unique legal circumstances.

With a former prosecutor on our defense team, we know they must expend considerable resources to counter our precise case preparation, legal insight, courtroom presence, and exacting representation to obtain a conviction. For most, it is not worth the fight.

If the prosecutor’s office wants to play hardball, they will immediately recognize that our criminal law firm builds each case as if it were going to go to trial — and win — from day one.

We understand that our defense strategy and representation inside and outside the courtroom can mean a difference in our client’s freedom and future, and we take that responsibility very seriously. Contact us today to learn more.

Fraud / Theft Lawyer in East Lansing

What Types of Theft Cases Does Ben Hall Law Handle?

In Michigan, theft is generally referred to as “larceny.” Michigan’s larceny law is defined as the unlawful taking or stealing of another person’s property with the intent to deprive the owner of that property permanently.

The critical elements of the offense of larceny in Michigan include:

  • Taking

The offender must have taken or exercised control over another person’s property without the owner’s consent. This can involve physically removing the property or exerting control over it.

  • Unlawful Intent

The offender must have intended to deprive the owner of their property permanently. Without the intent to permanently deprive the owner, temporary possession may not constitute larceny.

  • Ownership

The property must belong to another person. You cannot commit larceny against your property.

  • Value

The property involved must have value. The specific value thresholds may determine the degree of the larceny charge.

  • Possession

Even if the offender does not physically remove the property, it may still be considered larceny if they deprive the owner permanently. Michigan classifies larceny into several categories based on the value of the stolen property.

That includes:

  • Larceny Under $200: Larceny of property valued at less than $200 is a 93-day misdemeanor.
  • Larceny $200 to $1,000: Larceny of property valued between $200 and $1,000 is a misdemeanor, with a possible sentence of up to one year in jail.
  • Larceny $1,000 to $20,000: Larceny of property valued between $1,000 and $20,000 is a felony, with potential imprisonment for up to five years.
  • Larceny $20,000 or More: Larceny of property valued at $20,000 or more is a felony with a potential prison sentence of up to 10 years.

If you have been charged with larceny in Michigan, it is crucial to understand your legal rights and options from the start of your case. We can help. Contact our East Lansing theft defense attorneys today to discuss your case.

What Types of Fraud Cases Does Ben Hall Law Handle?

In Michigan, fraud is defined as intentionally deceiving or misrepresenting information to gain an unfair advantage or cause financial or other harm to another person, entity, or the public.

The definition and elements of fraud may vary depending on the offense or statute.

Some common forms of fraud in Michigan include:

  • Fraudulent Schemes to Obtain Money or Property

This includes any scheme under false pretenses or misrepresentations used to obtain money, property, services, or something of value.

  • Credit Card Fraud

This involves the unauthorized use of someone else’s credit card or credit card information with the intent to defraud.

  • Check Fraud

It includes offenses related to issuing fraudulent checks or other deceptive practices involving checks.

  • Insurance Fraud

This pertains to fraudulent activities involving insurance claims, like filing false claims, inflating losses, or committing fraud to obtain insurance benefits.

  • Securities Fraud

Securities fraud may involve deceptive practices in selling, trading or manipulating securities, such as stocks and bonds.

  • Identity Theft

Identity theft involves the unauthorized use of someone’s personal information, like their Social Security number or financial data, to commit fraudulent acts.

  • Wire Fraud

This fraud is committed using electronic communications, like emails or phone calls, to defraud individuals or organizations.

  • Mortgage Fraud

Mortgage fraud includes deceptive practices related to mortgage loan applications, property values, or loan terms.

  • Healthcare Fraud

Healthcare fraud involves defrauding healthcare programs, providers, or patients through false billing, overbilling, or other schemes in the healthcare industry.

  • Mail Fraud

Mail fraud involves using the postal service to commit fraudulent activities, often in conjunction with other forms of fraud.

Michigan law provides criminal and civil penalties for fraud offenses, including fines, restitution, and imprisonment, depending on the offense’s severity. If you have been charged with fraud, protecting your best interests from the start of your case is important. Contact our East Lansing fraud defense lawyers today to learn more about your legal rights and options to pursue the best outcome for your circumstances.

Are You a Police Officer or Public Service Employee Facing Theft or Fraud Charges in Michigan?

As a former Michigan police officer, Ben Hall knows law enforcement’s role is enforcing laws, maintaining public order, and managing public safety. This includes investigating, apprehending, and detaining individuals suspected of criminal offenses.

We also know that officers face immense pressure from their command, internal affairs, prosecutors, and the public, even when they do the right thing. It’s even worse when, in those small percentage of cases, their actions cross the line.

In today’s social climate, Michigan police officers are under intense scrutiny. They are being subjected to investigations, arrests, and severe charges for placing their lives on the line to protect the public. In the majority of the cases, the officers did nothing wrong.

This is why we are here.

Our Attorneys Also Focus on the Following Areas:

Contact Our Skilled Criminal Defense Lawyers in East Lansing, Michigan, for Help Today

You are not just a client when you partner with Ben Hall Law. You are the client. We believe in giving each client the personal attention they deserve because you, your case, and your future are important.

To learn how we can put our expert legal resources to work for you, contact our trusted legal defense team in Michigan to discuss your case with trusted professionals who believe in you and your case by calling (877)-236-4255 or contacting us online.

Your fight is our fight. Let’s get started.

Frequently Asked Questions for Our Fraud and Theft Defense Attorneys in East Lansing, Michigan

Is intent a key element in theft and fraud cases in Michigan?

Yes, intent is a crucial element in both theft and fraud cases. In theft cases, there must be intent to permanently deprive the owner of their property. In fraud cases, there must be intent to deceive or misrepresent. The prosecutor’s office may not have a case if intent cannot be proven.

Can I be charged with both theft and fraud for the same offense?

It is possible to face multiple charges for the same act if both theft and fraud elements are present. However, it may depend on the specific facts and statutes involved.

Can I be charged with multiple counts of fraud for the same incident in Michigan?

Depending on the specific facts and statutes involved, it is possible to face multiple counts of fraud for the same incident if different elements or degrees are present.

What defenses are available for fraud or theft charges in Michigan?

All defense strategies are unique to the person and circumstances of the case. Generally speaking, defenses for fraud cases may include a lack of fraudulent intent, a genuine belief that the actions were legal, or procedural errors. Defenses for theft cases may include a lack of intent to deprive the owner permanently, a genuine belief of ownership, and procedural errors.

What should I do if I believe I have been falsely accused of theft or fraud in Michigan?

If you believe you have been falsely accused of theft or fraud, it is vital to seek legal representation, gather evidence to support your innocence, and consult with an attorney to build a strong defense. We can help outline your case to build a robust defense strategy that supports your innocence.