So, you or someone you love is facing a fraud charge in Queensland. It is essential to have an experienced criminal lawyer handling a matter like this. The right criminal lawyer can make a significant difference. Understanding defences such as lack of dishonest intent, mistaken identity, or evidentiary gaps is essential.
At Donnelly Law Group, we are specifically skilled in analysing all aspects of fraud cases. We have the tools to scrutinise financial records, challenge the admissibility of evidence, and uncover details that others may overlook. Our ethos is to leave no stone unturned in securing the best defence possible and achieving the most favourable outcome for our clients.
Whether you intend to plead guilty or not, we are committed to delivering outstanding results in court. Our impressive and proven track record, for defending fraud charges, including forgery, embezzlement, identity theft, and corporate fraud, demonstrates our dedication to protecting our clients’ rights and reputations.
Fraud offences that our specialist fraud lawyers provide criminal defence for
Centrelink fraud charges
This charge could result from not informing Centrelink about changes in your circumstances such as receiving income from work while continuing to receive social security benefits.
Possible defence strategies for Centrelink fraud charges on the Gold Coast & QLD
- Lack of criminal intent (made a mistake or misunderstood reporting obligations)
- Insufficient evidence
- Procedural errors
- Duress
Bank fraud charges
This charge arises from dishonestly obtaining funds from a bank to which you are not lawfully entitled, such as dishonesty on a loan application. The charge could arise following a police investigation which establishes money or a benefit was obtained. In those circumstances a charge under section 408C of the Criminal Code may be laid by Queensland Police.
Possible defence strategies for bank fraud charges on the Gold Coast & QLD
- Lack of intent to defraud
- Honest and reasonable mistake
- Duress
Tax fraud charges
Tax fraud charges involve the act of dishonestly obtaining a benefit from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). This could result from dishonest claims on a tax or GST return resulting in a benefit being obtained to which you are not entitled.
Possible defence strategies for tax fraud charges on the Gold Coast & QLD
- Lack of intent to defraud
- Voluntary compliance efforts (proactively reported errors to the ATO)
- Honest and reasonable mistake
- Duress
Credit card fraud charges
Credit card fraud occurs when a person uses another person’s credit card without their consent; obtaining property dishonestly.
Possible defence strategies for credit card fraud charges on the Gold Coast & QLD
- Victim lawfully consented
- Lack of criminal intent to defraud
- Mistaken identity
- Duress
Federal fraud charges
Federal fraud charges involve dishonestly obtaining financial benefits from government services such as Centrelink, Medicare or other Commonwealth entities.
Possible defence strategies for federal fraud charges on the Gold Coast & QLD
- Honest and reasonable mistake
- Proactively reporting errors
- Duress
- Insufficient evidence
Insurance fraud charges
Insurance fraud involves deliberately providing false or misleading information to gain a financial benefit, this can include; staging accidents, exaggerating claims and providing false documents.
Possible defence strategies for insurance fraud charges on the Gold Coast & QLD
- Lack of intent to defraud
- Legitimate insurance claim
- Lack of evidence
Forgery charges
Forgery involves creating fake documents, altering documents or using these documents to deceive and gain a financial benefit/personal advantage. Forgery can also include; creating fake contracts, falsifying signatures and creating fake identification.
Possible defence strategies for forgery charges on the Gold Coast & QLD
- Lack of intent to deceive
- Accused did not receive a financial or personal advantage
- Lack of evidence (prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt)
- Honestly believed the document was legitimate
Uttering charges
The charge of uttering is closely related to forgery, it involves passing off forged documents with the intent to deceive or gain a benefit.
Possible defence strategies for uttering charges on the Gold Coast & QLD
- Document was not forged
- Accused was unaware of the forged documents
- Accused did not intend to defraud or gain a benefit
Corporate fraud charges
Corporate fraud involves deceptive conduct within a corporate or business setting, often for financial gain. Corporate fraud can include; insider trading, insolvent trading, embezzlement, falsifying financial records and breaching corporate governance laws.
Possible defence strategies for corporate fraud charges on the Gold Coast & QLD
- Conduct was not deceptive
- Accused was unaware of fraudulent activity in the company
- Made decisions based on advice from professionals (accountants, auditors or legal counsel)
Property fraud charges
Property fraud occurs when a person dishonestly obtains, sells or transfers property through deception, misrepresentation or other fraudulent means. Property fraud can also include; forging property documents, falsifying signatures, falsifying ownership records or illegally selling property without authorisation.
Possible defence strategies for property fraud charges on the Gold Coast & QLD
- Accused did not know the documents were forged
- Transaction was legal
- Accused was unaware of the fraudulent activity
- Duress
WorkCover fraud charges
WorkCover fraud charges arise when an individual obtains WorkCover compensation benefits by providing false or misleading information. WorkCover fraud can include; working while receiving compensation, falsifying medical records, exaggerating medical claims and employers misrepresenting incidents to avoid payment.
Why choose Donnelly Law Group?
Extensive experience handling fraud cases across the Gold Coast & Queensland
We appear regularly in court across the Gold Coast and Queensland. Our team has extensive experience in all fraud related charges, we have represented many clients in fraud matters in the Magistrates Court, District Court and the Supreme Court. Book a free confidential consultation today and get expert legal advice.
Local expertise
Our criminal lawyers have a positive relationship with police, prosecution, and court staff. We leverage our local relationships to minimise penalties and where possible, have the charges dismissed.
Personalised approach for every criminal charge to help achieve the best outcome for our clients
At Donnelly Law Group we understand that there are multiple sides. We take the time to understand your legal issues, listen to your side of the story and provide personalised, trusted legal advice.
Book An Appointment.
Our legal strategy for fraud offences across the Gold Coast & QLD
Initial consultation
During the initial consultation, we want to hear your side of the story. We will assess the charges against you, explain your legal options, and advise you on the best path forward.
Case assessment
The prosecution’s evidence will be examined, and our lawyers will assess its credibility. Where necessary, our lawyers will challenge any inconsistencies in the evidence to build the strongest defence possible.
Developing a defence strategy
Our trusted criminal lawyers will review all evidence from the prosecution and formulate a defence strategy that will achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Court representation
Our lawyers will appear in court on your behalf. With preparation, practice and determination, we ensure your defence is presented professionally before the courts.
FAQs.
What should I do if the police want to speak to me about a fraud offence?
If the Queensland Police want to speak to you about a fraud or dishonesty offence, you only have to give them your name, date of birth and contact details. If they arrest you or serve you with a notice, you may also have to provide identifying particulars such as your fingerprints.
You have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer any further questions from the police, make any statements or participate in a police interview.
Immediately contact Donnelly Law Group at the first opportunity. One of our lawyers or trained support staff will discuss your options and explain how to achieve the best possible outcome.
Do I need a fraud lawyer?
Having defended and witnessed hundreds of fraud matters in Queensland, it is apparent that defendants achieve the best possible outcome when they are represented by a lawyer who specialises in fraud offences.
Our fraud lawyers understand the legal defences and mitigating factors the court is looking for when deciding the outcome and sentence in your matter. We are experts at preparing your case and presenting these factors to the magistrate or judge so that you attain the best possible result.
People who do not engage the help of a fraud lawyer often fail to identify potential defences or present mitigating factors to the court. These people frequently suffer heavier penalties as a consequence.
When should I contact a fraud lawyer?
If you have been charged or suspect you are under investigation for fraud, contact Donnelly Law Group today.
It’s crucial that you receive expert legal advice before speaking to the police.
The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can protect your legal interests, begin working on your case and help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Call Donnelly Law Group today and arrange your free initial consultation with one of our expert fraud lawyers.
Will my lawyer represent me in court?
Our team of fraud lawyers at Donnelly Law Group will research, strategise and prepare your case for you. They will then represent you in court and methodically argue your defence in order to attain the best possible outcome.
What legislation covers fraud offences in Queensland?
In Queensland, most fraud and dishonesty-related offences are legislated under the Criminal Code Act 1899.
What are the penalties for fraud offences in Queensland?
In Queensland, many factors are considered by the court when sentencing someone for fraud charges.
Most fraud offences in Queensland carry a maximum penalty of imprisonment. There are also a number of aggravating factors that may increase the severity of the penalty.
Other potential penalties for fraud offences in Queensland include a fine, restitution, bond, community service order, probation or an intensive corrections order.
If you are found guilty of a fraud offence, it will be recorded on your criminal history. However, it may be possible for a fraud lawyer to argue that no criminal conviction should be recorded. Keeping a clean criminal record helps you avoid complications when applying for jobs, travel visas, child adoption, legal aid and certain types of insurance.
Further, it may be possible for a lawyer to argue for a lesser penalty if you committed fraud to support an addiction or some reason other than greed.
Contact Donnelly Law Group today so that we can discuss your charges and circumstances and explain the likely outcomes.
Are there any legal defences to fraud charges?
Yes, there are legal defences available in fraud matters in Queensland. Defences may include honest and reasonable mistake, honest claim of right to the property, duress, consent and more.
Donnelly Law Group’s specialist fraud lawyers will assess the evidence and circumstances in your case when determining whether any legal defences may apply.
How much does Donnelly Law Group charge for legal defence in fraud matters?
A lot of people believe that they cannot afford to hire an expert fraud lawyer. But at Donnelly Law Group, we ensure that our legal fees are affordable so that everyone can access high-quality legal representation in Queensland.
We will provide you with a fixed quote after your free initial consultation. A fixed fee ensures that you have total transparency over costs and won’t receive any surprising invoices.
Contact Donnelly Law Group today to book your free consultation and receive a fixed quote.
See our page on Legal Fees for more information on payment plans and options.
Can Donnelly Law Group help me if I live outside of the Gold Coast?
Donnelly Law Group regularly represents people living all over the Sunshine Coast and regional Queensland (including Toowoomba, Noosa, Maroochydore, Cairns, Townsville, Rainbow Beach, Mackay, Rockhampton, Bundaberg, Hervey Bay and more.)
We can hold meetings with our regional clients over the phone, via video conference or in person. Our lawyers travel to courts all over Queensland to represent locals in criminal, traffic, drink driving and domestic violence matters and bail applications.
It can be difficult to find high-quality legal representation in regional Queensland. Do not hesitate to contact Donnelly Law Group for the best possible outcome in your matter.
Do lawyers have a duty to report fraud?
Due to legal professional privilege, lawyers in Australia are not required to report a client’s fraud offences. However, if the fraud is ongoing and involves money laundering, lawyers may have a legal obligation to report it under anti-money laundering laws. If the money laundering was a past offence, legal professional privilege applies, meaning the lawyer cannot be compelled under criminal law to disclose it.
