Willoughby Fraud Lawyer

Fraud Attorney in Willoughby

A theft or fraud charge is not something to take lightly. If you are convicted, you face possible jail time and fines, not to mention a tainted reputation. However, just because you have been arrested for an alleged crime does not mean you can’t build a solid defense.

The team at Fortress Law Group has your best interests at heart and will defend you diligently throughout your case. We will review the facts of your arrest and discuss your options with you.

With the right Willoughby theft and fraud attorney on your side, you can gain confidence in the possibility of a positive outcome for your case.

Overview of Theft Laws in Ohio

Ohio law defines theft as knowingly obtaining or exerting control over someone else’s property or services. This can happen:

• Without the owner giving consent
• Beyond the express or implied consent of the owner
• By deception, threat, or intimidation

Some common names for different types of theft are larceny, embezzlement, shoplifting, and extortion. Theft can fall into several categories, depending on the nature and circumstances of the alleged act. Consequently, the penalties can vary.

If you have a theft arrest, contact Fortress Law Group today to schedule a case evaluation with an experienced Willoughby theft and fraud attorney.

Theft Classifications And Penalties In Ohio

Some theft crimes are misdemeanors. This will depend on the value of the property the alleged perpetrator takes. Petty theft falls into the misdemeanor category. It occurs when there is less than $1,000 of property or services taken. The penalties for this charge include up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.

Felony theft will be the charge if a person takes more than $1,000 but less than $7,500 of property or services. It carries six to 12 months in jail and fines of up to $ 2,500. When the amount taken is more than $7,500 but less than $150,000, it is a fourth-degree felony known as grand theft. If the property is a motor vehicle or a dangerous drug, it can fall into this classification. A person found guilty of this may spend as many as 18 months in jail and could pay a fine as high as $5,000.

There are also first-, second-, and third-degree felony aggravated theft, which involve the taking of higher-value items. Prison terms can exceed several years and fines may be imposed up to $15,000.

An Overview Of Fraud In Ohio

Fraud falls under the umbrella of theft in Ohio law. The law defines fraud as knowingly deceiving another or causing another to be deceived by any false or misleading representation. Fraud enables theft and occurs when the perpetrator knows he or she is participating in this behavior.

In Willoughby and throughout Ohio, an allegation of fraud could come to someone who seeks to defraud a financial institution, credit card company, insurance company, or similar business/entity. Assuming a false identity, such as a police officer, also falls under this category. Fraud charges involving theft of items valued at $1000 or more are felonies and can bring penalties of six months to 11 years in jail, with fines up to $20,000. Fraud involving theft of items valued below $1,000 is a first-degree misdemeanor.

Contact Fortress Law Group today for a case evaluation to discuss your defense options.