Many unsuspecting Americans are finding themselves charged with credit card fraud. One reason stems from their declaring bankruptcy, or their intention to do so.
According to the Administrative Office of the US Courts, there were nearly 1.2 million non-business bankruptcy filings in 2014. What many individuals filing for bankruptcy do not know is that making any credit card charges while knowing they will be filing for bankruptcy can result in accusations of credit card fraud.
Individuals who have no actual intent of defrauding their creditors may still find themselves in trouble, depending on the items they have used their credit towards. For example, using your credit to purchase or pay for luxury goods and services can lead to fraud charges. Taking out cash advances which exceed a certain dollar amount can also result in being accused of credit card fraud.
Defending Yourself Against Credit-Card Fraud Charges
Using your credit card before or while filing for bankruptcy does not mean that you are automatically guilty of credit card fraud. Nor does it mean that you should be liable to repay any accrued debt.
- Innocent Until Proven Guilty: Anyone accused of credit card fraud needs to remember that they are presumed innocent until convicted. Our fraud defense attorneys at Lotze Mosely, LLP strongly encourage anyone charged with credit card fraud to contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible in order to receive the counsel necessary to protect themselves
- Beyond a Reasonable Doubt: Prosecution has a steep uphill battle to fight against someone who has been accused of credit card fraud. They must prove that a defendant is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt before the defendant can be convicted
- Helping You With Your Defense: Being charged with any crime can be frightening and overwhelming. Our experienced Washington, D.C. fraud defense lawyers guide clients in uncovering the evidence necessary to create a concrete defense to the charges
The Importance of a Criminal Defense Attorney
If you have been accused of credit card fraud, remember that you are not obligated to respond to any questions. You should not to speak to anyone until you have spoken to a knowledgeable attorney who specializes in fraud, and who is fully prepared to take the care necessary to investigate the case.
At Lotze Mosely, LLP we commit ourselves to our clients and will fully investigate your case, while aggressively fighting for your rights inside and outside of court.
If you have been accused of credit card fraud, we invite you to contact us today at (202) 393-0535.
