Accused of Fraud? Here’s What You’re Really Up Against
By Thom Nisbet
Fraud charges can start with a letter. A frozen account. A knock at your door. Whether you're under investigation or already indicted, one thing is clear: you're being accused of knowingly deceiving someone for financial gain. And if the government believes your actions crossed a line, you could be facing years in prison, crippling fines, and a lifelong stain on your reputation—even if no one was physically harmed.
At Christian, Nisbet & Casillas, we’ve represented business owners, healthcare providers, public employees, and everyday people caught up in fraud cases. We understand the pressure, the paperwork, and how quickly things escalate once federal or state investigators get involved.
What Exactly Is Fraud?
Fraud covers a wide range of alleged conduct. In Texas and federal courts, we often see cases involving:
Wire fraud (using phone, email, or electronic systems to commit fraud)
Bank fraud (misrepresenting information to obtain loans or funds)
Healthcare fraud (overbilling, kickbacks, false claims)
Insurance fraud (false claims or misstatements)
Credit card or check fraud (unauthorized use or forgery)
Payroll fraud, unemployment fraud, or PPP loan fraud
In general, fraud charges require prosecutors to prove three things:
A false or misleading statement was made
There was an intent to deceive or defraud
Someone suffered a financial loss, or the accused gained financially
Recent Legal Updates in Texas and Federal Fraud Cases
Increased PPP and COVID-relief prosecutions: The DOJ has aggressively prosecuted suspected loan fraud, especially where documentation is inconsistent or inflated.
Harsher sentencing guidelines for “sophisticated means”: Both federal and Texas courts are enhancing sentences when fraud involves complex structures or hidden transactions.
Expansion of digital evidence use: Courts now regularly admit emails, social media messages, and metadata to support fraud claims—making early legal intervention even more critical.
Texas SB 709 (2023): Created stricter penalties for certain insurance and Medicaid-related fraud cases, especially involving organized activity.
Common Mistakes People Make After Being Accused
Speaking to investigators without an attorney present
Deleting files or emails that may seem suspicious—even if they're not illegal
Assuming it’s a civil matter, not a criminal one
Trying to “fix” things privately without legal protection
If you're being investigated—even informally—get legal help immediately. The earlier you involve counsel, the more control you retain over the outcome.
Our Strategic Defense Approach
1. We Dissect the Paper Trail
Fraud cases often involve thousands of pages of financial records. We know what to look for, and where prosecutors make leaps without proof.
2. We Focus on Intent
A misunderstanding is not a crime. Mistakes in billing, documentation, or reporting don’t equal fraud unless prosecutors prove intent.
3. We Challenge the Scope and Value
Prosecutors often overstate the amount of loss to justify harsher penalties. We fight those numbers with real evidence.
4. We Protect Your Reputation
These cases are sensitive. We take steps to keep your name out of the press when possible, and handle negotiations discreetly.
5. We Fight for Alternatives When Appropriate
In some cases, restitution or civil resolution may be better than jail. We push for pretrial diversion, dismissal, or reduced charges when the facts support it.
Final Thoughts
Fraud cases are built on perception, paperwork, and pressure. But being accused doesn’t mean you're guilty—and it doesn’t mean your life is over.
When the government says you crossed a line… we’re that call.
