In Florida, a charge of Insurance Fraud can take many forms, including charges arising from false Medicare and Medicaid claims to fraudulent claims made to Worker’s Compensation and Auto Insurance providers. In addition, because of today’s complex billing and coding procedures, many doctors and health care providers are being investigated by State Prosecutors for Health Insurance Fraud. Insurance Fraud offenses can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, and in some situations—such as where a staged accident is alleged – mandatory minimum prison terms may be imposed by a Judge.

The State of Florida can also prosecute those they suspect of making False Home Insurance Claims. Specifically, a popular charge in Central Florida is Burning to Defraud Insurer, (Florida Statute § 817.233), a charge that can also be linked to Arson. (Florida Statute § 806.01) In an Insurance Fraud case, State Prosecutors have to prove that the act of defrauding the insurance company was willfully done, which makes this charge particularily difficult for State Prosecutors to prove to a Judge or Jury. These cases are charged as Third Degree felonies and are subject to a possible sentence of up to five (5) years in State Prison. If you have been charged with Insurance Fraud, either through a fire claim or otherwise, please contact us immediately before speaking to the authorities or the Insurance Company.

Credit card fraud is when an individual defrauds another person or company with the intent to obtain money or goods. In Florida, State Prosecutors can charge Credit Card Fraud whenever a person uses a credit card attached to a closed account, or a uses a card that stolen or lost and makes a purchase. Another form of Credit Card Fraud is misappropriation—which is when a person a credit card number to make purchases. State and Federal agencies may pursue Credit Card Fraud cases, however most Credit Card Fraud cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Secret Service.

The attorneys at the Law Offices of Whittel & Melton, LLC have successfully defended fraud cases brought by the government. If you have been charged with an insurance fraud crime, please contact us for a consultation.