Charged with Fraud in Pennsylvania? Here’s What You Need to Know

What Is Considered Fraud?

Fraud involves intentionally misleading or deceiving another person or entity in order to gain something of value. It includes a wide range of offenses, such as:

• Identity theft

• Credit card fraud

• Forgery

• Welfare or Medicaid fraud

• Insurance fraud

• Mortgage or bank fraud

• Bad checks

You may face fraud charges if you’re accused of lying, forging, falsifying documents, or omitting information in a way that leads to a financial benefit or causes harm to another.

Pennsylvania Penalties for Fraud

Fraud charges vary depending on the type of fraud, amount of money involved, and whether you have any prior offenses. In general:

• Writing a bad check over $2,000 may be charged as a Felony 3, punishable by up to 7 years in prison.

• Insurance fraud can also result in felony charges, with additional civil penalties.

• Welfare fraud often triggers both criminal prosecution and repayment demands from state agencies.

Federal fraud charges may apply if the offense crosses state lines, involves banks, or uses communication systems like the internet or phone.

Defending Fraud Charges

These cases can be complex, often involving financial records, digital data, or multiple parties. Potential defenses include:

✅ Lack of intent – You made a mistake, but did not mean to defraud anyone.
✅ Clerical or accounting error – The issue was a misunderstanding or oversight.
✅ False accusation – You are being wrongly blamed for someone else’s conduct.
✅ Insufficient evidence – The state may not be able to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.

How We Help

We review bank statements, audit trails, witness reports, and digital evidence to uncover any weaknesses in the case. In some situations, we may be able to negotiate a plea agreement that avoids jail time or seek full dismissal.

📞 Contact Mark D. Hauser, criminal defense attorney, today for a confidential case evaluation.