Fraud Attorney in Brownsville

Legal Help When You Are Accused Of Fraud In Cameron County

Fraud allegations can turn your life upside down in a moment. You may be worried about going to jail, losing your job, or seeing your reputation damaged in a community where people know each other. If you or someone you love is facing accusations of financial misconduct here, our firm is here to help you understand what is happening and what you can do next.

At Gustavo D. Elizondo, III Attorney at Law, we provide criminal defense for people facing serious charges and investigations, including fraud and other financial crime cases. Our office is rooted in a tradition of serving San Benito and neighboring counties, and we regularly work with people from Brownsville who are trying to protect their freedom and their future.

We offer free, confidential consultations and flexible scheduling, including appointments after regular business hours when needed. This gives you a chance to talk with an attorney, ask questions, and learn about your options before making decisions. We believe every client deserves dignity and respect, and we approach each case with that in mind.

Your reputation is your most valuable asset—don't let a fraud allegation destroy it. Contact a fraud crime defense lawyer in Brownsville at (956) 275-9191 or reach out online for a free consultation. As a former prosecutor, Gustavo D. Elizondo III is ready to fight for you.

Understanding Fraud Laws in Texas

Under Texas law, fraud is a broad category of offenses involving the use of deception or misrepresentation for financial or personal gain. In Brownsville and across Cameron County, these charges are taken extremely seriously due to their impact on the local economy and financial institutions.

Our firm represents clients facing a wide variety of state and federal fraud allegations, including:

• Credit Card or Debit Card Abuse (§ 32.31): Using a card without the owner's consent or using a card you know is expired or revoked. In Texas, this is generally a state jail felony.
• Identity Theft (§ 32.51): Fraudulent use or possession of identifying information (Social Security numbers, bank accounts, etc.) of another person without their consent.
• Insurance Fraud (Chapter 35): Intentionally making false statements to an insurer to receive a benefit or payment.
• Forgery (§ 32.21): Altering, making, or authenticating a document so it appears to be the act of another who did not authorize it.
• Health Care and Medicaid Fraud: Submitting false claims for medical services or billing for services never rendered.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of Fraud Convictions in Texas

The penalties for fraud in Texas are primarily determined by the monetary value of the loss or the number of items (such as stolen identities) involved.

Sentencing Guidelines

• Less than $2,500: Classified as a misdemeanor (Class A, B, or C), punishable by up to 1 year in county jail.
• $2,500 – $30,000: Charged as a state jail felony, carrying a potential sentence of 180 days to 2 years in a Texas state jail facility.
• $30,000 – $150,000: Considered a third-degree felony, with possible prison time ranging from 2 to 10 years in Texas prison.
• $150,000 – $300,000: Charged as a second-degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in Texas prison.
• Over $300,000: Classified as a first-degree felony, carrying a possible sentence of 5 to 99 years or life in Texas prison.

Collateral Consequences

Beyond prison and fines, a fraud conviction is a "crime of moral turpitude" that carries lifelong consequences:

• Professional Barment: You may lose licenses for nursing, real estate, law, or accounting.
• Immigration Issues: For non-citizens, fraud is often a deportable offense.
• Financial Restrictions: A felony fraud record makes it nearly impossible to secure business loans or work in the financial sector.

How We Approach Fraud Criminal Defense In This Area

Our approach to fraud defense begins by listening carefully to your account and reviewing all relevant documents, including letters, emails, and charging papers. We consider not only the allegations but also your work history, family responsibilities, and future goals. This allows us to see your case as more than a file number and to develop strategies that reflect your life circumstances, not just the legal charges.

Next, we examine the evidence in detail. Fraud cases often involve financial records, bank statements, online account histories, contracts, or communications. We assess how this evidence was obtained and used, looking for gaps, inconsistencies, or assumptions in the state’s version of events. Our goal is to determine whether the prosecution can prove every legal element and to identify opportunities to challenge or weaken the case.

We also consider the context of the agencies or organizations involved, such as banks, insurance companies, benefits programs, or employers, since different situations have different procedures. Drawing on extensive legal experience, we guide clients through negotiations, pretrial motions, or trial preparation.

At the Law Office of Gustavo D. Elizondo III, we utilize a meticulous defense strategy tailored to the specific type of fraud you are facing:

• Forensic Accounting Review: We work to show that "missing" funds were the result of accounting errors or business losses rather than theft.
• The "No Intent" Defense: We highlight evidence that you acted in good faith and lacked the specific intent required for a criminal conviction.
• Motion to Suppress: If evidence was gathered through an illegal search of your digital devices or bank records, we fight to have that evidence thrown out.
• Restitution Strategy: In some cases, making an early offer of restitution can lead to significantly reduced charges or a dismissal of the criminal case.

Why People Charged With Fraud in Brownsville Turn To Our Firm

We are committed to treating every client like family. That commitment shows in the time we spend listening, the respect we show in every conversation, and the way we explain the law in terms you can understand. Fraud accusations can be embarrassing and may involve personal financial details. We approach these topics with care, so you can speak honestly without fearing that you will be judged.

Our firm has a history of successful case handling, supported by generations of legal experience. We also value the relationships we have built within the San Benito and Brownsville legal communities, which help us understand local practices and expectations when we are guiding clients through difficult decisions.

When you choose our office, you are not hiring a stranger from far away. You are working with a fraud criminal defense attorney in Brownsville who understands the local community and takes your well-being seriously. Our goal is to walk beside you throughout the process and help you seek the most favorable result that the facts and the law allow.

What To Do If You Are Being Investigated Or Charged With Fraud

When you learn that you are being investigated or charged with fraud, it can be tempting to try to clear things up by talking to investigators or sending emails on your own. This can cause problems later because statements you make may be misunderstood or used against you. Before you answer questions or sign anything, it is wise to speak with a lawyer who can help you understand your rights.

Helpful steps to take after a fraud accusation include:

• Keeping any letters, notices, or emails you receive from banks, employers, insurance companies, or law enforcement in a safe place so you can bring them to your consultation.
• Writing down dates, times, and names of people who have contacted you about the situation, along with a brief summary of what was said.
• Avoiding discussions about the details of your case on social media or with people who are not directly involved in helping you.
• Being cautious about what you say to supervisors or coworkers until you have had legal advice about how to handle those conversations.

It is also important to contact an attorney as soon as you can. When you reach out to our office, we will schedule a free consultation. In that meeting, we review your documents, answer your questions, and talk through possible next steps. Early guidance from a fraud lawyer in Brownsville can give you more options and help you avoid decisions that could limit your defenses later.

Talk With Our Office About Your Fraud Case

At Gustavo D. Elizondo, III Attorney at Law, we bring community roots, generations of legal experience, and a commitment to treating clients like family to every case we handle. We offer free consultations and flexible scheduling, including after hours appointments, so you can talk with us at a time that works for you. When you contact us, we listen carefully, review your situation, and work with you to develop a plan that respects your rights and your goals.

To schedule your free consultation with our fraud defense lawyer in Brownsville, call (956) 275-9191 or reach out online today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do First If I Am Accused Of Fraud?

If you are accused of fraud, avoid making statements to investigators until you speak with an attorney, as even well-intended comments can be used against you. Gather all related documents and create a timeline of events. Contacting a criminal defense lawyer early allows you to understand your rights, discuss next steps, and begin protecting your position.

Can A Fraud Conviction Send Me To Jail In Texas?

Yes, a fraud conviction in Texas can result in jail or prison time, depending on the charge, the amount involved, and your prior record. Some offenses are misdemeanors with limited jail exposure, while others are serious felonies. A lawyer can explain the specific penalties you face and work toward minimizing or avoiding incarceration.

How Will You Approach Defending My Fraud Case?

Fraud cases are defended by carefully reviewing your account and the documents involved, such as financial records and communications. Attorneys analyze whether the evidence actually proves each legal element of the charge and identify weaknesses. Defense strategies are developed with your goals, family, and employment concerns in mind, keeping you informed throughout the process.

Will My Employer Or Family Find Out About My Fraud Charges?

Whether others learn about your fraud charges depends on how public the case is and any disclosure requirements tied to your job. Criminal cases are often public record, and some employers require reporting. Attorneys discuss these risks with you and help you navigate disclosure issues while handling your case as discreetly as possible.

What Should I Bring To A Consultation About Fraud Charges?

Bring any documents related to the allegations, including arrest papers, charging documents, letters from agencies, financial records, and relevant communications. A written timeline of events with dates and names is also helpful. These materials allow the attorney to quickly understand your situation and give more specific guidance during the consultation.

Do You Offer Free Consultations For Fraud Cases?

Yes, free consultations are available for fraud charges and investigations. During the meeting, attorneys review your paperwork, explain the legal process, and answer questions so you can understand your options before deciding on representation. Flexible scheduling, including after-hours appointments, is offered to accommodate work and family responsibilities.

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