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Benefit Fraud
Benefit Fraud Defence Lawyers Greenock, Dunoon & Dumbarton, West of Scotland
If you are concerned about being investigated or charged with benefit fraud, it is essential to seek legal advice right away. Benefit fraud is a very serious offence that could lead to a prison sentence. A specialist criminal defence lawyer can protect your position.
We regularly represent clients accused of all forms of benefit fraud, providing our expert advice and full attention at every stage of the process. Our lawyers are prepared for the robust approach taken by enforcement agencies in prosecuting benefit fraud, and we will work tirelessly to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your loved ones.
To discuss your specific circumstances in strictest confidence, call Westcourts today on 01475 601 999 or complete our online enquiry form and we will contact you.
What is benefit fraud?
Benefit fraud occurs if a person fails to report a change in their personal or financial circumstances or provides false information when claiming benefits. This includes if someone becomes employed but continues to claim benefits or if inaccurate income information is given in an application form.
How will I know if I am under investigation for benefit fraud?
Benefit fraud investigations are usually initiated by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), HMRC or your local council. Generally, you will be sent a letter by one of these bodies, asking you to attend an interview under caution. However, this letter will not be the first action the investigating authority has taken. Fraud Investigation Officers (FIOs) will have already gathered evidence about your activities from banks, utility providers and other sources.
While you are under investigation, the investigating body may decide to stop your benefits. If this is the case, you will be informed in writing.What happens at a benefit fraud interview?
Usually, there will be two investigating officers present at a benefit fraud interview and the conversation will be recorded. The officers will provide you with information about the offences you are to be questioned about and explain that what you say may trigger a criminal investigation. If your case proceeds to trial, the recording of your interview may be played in court.
How can a lawyer help me at a benefit fraud interview?
If you are asked to attend a benefit fraud interview, it is critical to obtain legal advice ahead of this meeting. Anything you say can be used against you in court so it is very important that you do not admit to anything until you have taken advice from us.
Our defence lawyers will assess your case and advise you on what type of questions may be asked, how best to answer, how to deal with questions under caution and about your legal rights when being interviewed.
You have the right to have a legal representative present at a benefit fraud interview; we will attend and give you advice throughout. We will also seek full disclosure of the evidence held against you, allowing us to prepare and build the best defence for you.What happens after a benefit fraud interview?
The FIOs will assess the evidence they have already gathered and the information from the interview to decide what to do next. They may choose to issue a caution (in cases where the person fully admits the offence), an administrative penalty or, in particularly serious cases, they may decide to prosecute and criminal sanctions may be imposed.
If fraud has occurred, in every case the person responsible will have to repay the money in full, in addition to the penalties listed above.
At Westcourts, our priority is to encourage authorities not to prosecute; however, where court action is initiated, we will waste no time preparing a strong defence.
Our Benefit Fraud Defence Services
Our criminal defence solicitors have a thorough understanding of the prosecuting agencies’ powers in benefit fraud cases. We will guide you through the process of investigation and prosecution, providing strategic advice and tenacious representation at each stage.
Our solicitors understand the impact these allegations can have on you, your family and your financial circumstances. As a result, we are proactive and communicative, so you are never left in the dark about what might happen next.
We regularly defend clients against a wide range of benefit fraud accusations and can help you with investigations and prosecutions relating to:
Child Tax Credits
Working Tax Credits
Pension Credits
Disability Living Allowance
Child Benefit
Income Support
Housing Tax Benefit
Contact our Benefit Fraud Defence Lawyers for Greenock, Dunoon, Dumbarton, Lochgilphead, Rothesay, Campbeltown, Oban and across Scotland
If you have received a letter from HMRC, the DWP or your local council about an investigation into your affairs, or you have been charged with benefit fraud, please contact Westcourts right away. You can call us on 01475 601 999 or please fill in our online contact form and we will get back we will get back to you right away to arrange a confidential discussion.
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