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Being accused of credit card fraud is a serious matter in Michigan. Even an allegation can have lasting consequences on your personal and professional life. Depending on the circumstances, credit card fraud can result in misdemeanor or felony charges, both of which carry significant penalties, including fines, restitution, and possible imprisonment.

At Ben Hall Law, our East Lansing criminal defense lawyer understands the fear and uncertainty of such accusations. If you’ve been charged with credit card fraud, knowing your rights and acting quickly are critical to protecting your future.

credit card fraud

Understanding Credit Card Fraud in Michigan

Credit card fraud encompasses a range of unlawful activities involving the misuse of credit or debit cards.

Common examples include:

  • Using a stolen or lost credit card to purchase goods/services or withdraw money.
  • Falsely reporting charges as unauthorized to avoid payment.
  • Using fake or counterfeit credit cards.
  • Accessing another person’s credit card information without their consent.

In Michigan, the severity of the charges depends on factors such as the value of the alleged fraudulent activity and whether the crime was part of a larger scheme.

Steps to Take If You Are Accused of Credit Card Fraud in Michigan

If you are accused of credit card fraud, your actions immediately after learning of the allegations can significantly impact your case.

Follow these steps to protect your rights:

  • Remain Calm and Avoid Self-Incrimination

Do not speak with law enforcement or make statements without consulting an attorney. Anything you say can and will be used against you. Even casual comments can be misinterpreted as admissions of guilt.

  • Contact an Experienced Attorney

Hiring a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible is crucial. At Ben Hall Law, we can evaluate the details of your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your situation. Working closely with our attorney to prepare your defense requires providing our law firm with all relevant details, no matter how insignificant they may seem, as they can help build your case.

  • Preserve Evidence and Documentation

Collect and preserve any records, receipts, or correspondence supporting your version of events. This evidence could help establish your innocence or prove the charges are unfounded.

  • Avoid Discussing the Case

Refrain from discussing the accusations with anyone, including friends, family, or on social media. Such conversations can be used against you in court.

Defenses Against Michigan Credit Card Fraud Charges

Several defenses can be used to challenge credit card fraud allegations, depending on the specifics of your case.

Common defenses include:

  • Lack of Intent: Fraud requires intentional wrongdoing. If the prosecution cannot prove you knowingly committed fraud, the charges may not hold.
  • Mistaken Identity: Credit card fraud cases often involve electronic transactions, making it difficult to determine who committed the crime.
  • Authorization: You may be able to prove that you had the cardholder’s permission to use the card.
  • Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If evidence is lacking, your attorney can argue for a dismissal of the charges.

Credit card fraud charges can be complex, involving financial records, digital evidence, and intricate legal arguments. Our skilled criminal defense lawyer in East Lansing can help you navigate these challenges, protect your rights, and work toward the best possible outcome.

Call 877-BEN-HALL (517-798-5801) or contact us online. We are committed to providing aggressive, personalized defense strategies to protect your future. Your fight is our fight. Let’s get started.

 

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“Mr. Hall was a huge help. Being a former police officer and a former prosecutor was evident in his knowledge of both traffic and criminal laws. Even when I was willing to accept an initial plea deal, he knew that there was so little evidence against me that we should counter the offer. I went from a potential criminal case to a fine and 0 points. I could not be happier with my outcome. Thank you Mr. Hall!”

Anonymous

“I had an excellent experience with this law office. Ben Hall was able to handle my situation promptly and thoroughly, I was thankful we were able to avoided the hassle of going to court. I was looking for housing and if that isn’t an overwhelming task in itself, once I found a place that had vacancies they did not want to allow my support dog and the lady responsible for processing my application began sending me in circles and improperly handled the application process. It was to the point I didn’t think I was going to get housing when I contacted Ben Hall. He dove right in and explained to me the process and options and he guided me how to proceed and also contacted the housing development and let them know what their options were and how this was going to go if they continued to unjustly process my application… I received housing promptly with no further issues! So thankful for this option to pay such a minimal fee to have a lawyer in your corner and build a relationship with them. In a world were nothing is for sure it is a comfort to have such ease of access with this law office.”

Melinda

“Ben was very generous with his time and expertise. He asked straightforward questions and offered excellent options to meet our objectives. Amazing turn around on short deadlines. We needed a legal opinion dealing with a conflict of interest on a local school board. WOW! Ben really understood the issues andbour concerns. He produced an amazing 8 page opinion in in a weeks time. And he worked with us on minimizing legal fees.”

Dave

“Mr. Hall was a huge help. Being a former police officer and a former prosecutor was evident in his knowledge of both traffic and criminal laws. Even when I was willing to accept an initial plea deal, he knew that there was so little evidence against me that we should counter the offer. I went from a potential criminal case to a fine and 0 points. I could not be happier with my outcome. Thank you Mr. Hall!”

Anonymous

Ben was very generous with his time and expertise. He asked straightforward questions and offered excellent options to meet our objectives. Amazing turn around on short deadlines. We needed a legal opinion dealing with a conflict of interest on a local school board. WOW! Ben really understood the issues andbour concerns. He produced an amazing 8 page opinion in in a weeks time. And he worked with us on minimizing legal fees.

Dave

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