Fraud, Theft & Embezzlement
We offer professional, friendly legal advice and representation in courts throughout Scotland.
Over 30 years experience as Criminal Defence Lawyers
Fraud is a serious criminal offence which is defined as someone achieving a practical result by the means of a false pretence or, in simple terms, by acting dishonestly.
It is essential in all fraud cases to prove the accused intended to deceive.
Benefit fraud covers situations where someone has failed to report a change in their circumstances, for example becoming employed, or has given false information in their benefits application. Benefit frauds usually begin with an investigation by the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP).
Theft is “the taking or appropriating the property of another without the true owner’s consent and with the intent to deprive the owner of that property”.
Robbery is theft which is accompanied by an act of actual or threatened violence in order to deprive the victim of their property. There doesn’t need to be any actual harm inflicted, rather it is enough that the victim fears harm if they resist.
Embezzlement occurs when someone who has been entrusted with property, cash or other assets steals or uses it dishonestly for their own purposes. Embezzlement is in many ways similar to the offence of theft, although the penalties for those convicted of embezzlement can often be significantly harsher.
Benefit Fraud and Fraud Defence Lawyers Hamilton, Shotts, Motherwell, Glasgow
Our expert team can help you if you have been charged with fraud, theft or embezzlement. We also act for individuals charged with a contravention of the Social Security Administration Act 1992, section 111(a) or section 112 which covers any offences relating to benefit fraud.
It is important that you get advice from expert fraud and embezzlement lawyers without delay. At McGovern Reid, we regularly defend clients against allegations of embezzlement, and we have earned an excellent reputation in this area. We know how stressful it is to be investigated for benefit fraud and you will find our solicitors to be approachable and sympathetic when dealing with your case.
As experts in defending those accused of fraud, benefit fraud, theft, robbery and embezzlement, it may be possible, depending on the circumstances, to discuss the case with the Procurator Fiscal’s office and negotiate a lesser charge or even have the prosecution abandoned altogether. There are usually complex issues involved and our team of solicitors are very experienced, and you can be assured that you will be in safe hands, no matter how helpless you feel your situation is.
McGovern Reid Fraud, Theft & Embezzlement Lawyers
For the best possible legal advice, contact McGovern Reid today. We can guide you through the entire process if you are accused of fraud, theft, embezzlement or benefit fraud and help to ensure the best possible outcome. Please contact us on 01698 359 550 or use our online contact form. We will always do our best to help you.
Call us today - 01698 359 550