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Banks and other financial institutions in Lincoln rely on customer testimony to provide financial services to the public. This means that when the bank issues a loan, provides a line of credit, or allows a person to use a credit card, that bank is making decisions based on statements provided by customers. Providing false information about your identity can cause significant problems for banks, which could lead to criminal charges.
Providing false information on a credit application or improperly using a credit card is a criminal offense. Convictions for these charges can range from minor misdemeanors to harsh felonies. It is essential for individuals facing these charges to take the necessary steps to protect themselves.
A Lincoln bank fraud lawyer can explain the nature of your charges and how these cases typically work. A dedicated fraud defense attorney from Berry Law will also work to develop an effective strategy to fight your charges.
Criminal Charges for Defrauding a Bank
There is no statute in the state’s criminal code that specifically prohibits bank fraud. Instead, there is a collection of statutes that prohibit providing misinformation to financial institutions and the illegal exploitation of lines of credit.
According to Nebraska Revised Statutes §28-619, it is illegal to knowingly provide false bank statements to obtain a financial transaction device. Financial devices can include loans, mortgages, and credit cards. Intent is an important component of this statute. Prosecutors must prove that the false statement was the result of a defendant’s criminal intent to defraud the bank.
Other examples of bank fraud charges include:
- Unauthorized use of financial transaction devices;
- Criminal possession of a financial transaction device, such as a stolen credit card; and
- Unlawful manufacture of a financial transaction device, such as crafting fake debit cards.
An attorney from our team can help people facing allegations of any type of bank fraud in Lincoln.
Helping Individuals Avoid Penalties
Generally, the penalties associated with bank fraud charges correspond to the dollar value of the alleged fraudulent activity. For example, allegations of unauthorized use of a credit card can be a Class II misdemeanor if the value of the transaction was less than $500.
However, this charge upgrades to a Class I misdemeanor if the value is between $500 and $1,500. Finally, the charge is a felony if the dollar value rises above $1,500. It is important to understand that the prosecutor can aggregate multiple instances of lesser dollar values to increase the severity of the charge.
For example, three instances of improper credit card use resulting in at least $400 each can lead to a Class I misdemeanor charge because the total amount equals $1,200.
Contact a Lincoln Bank Fraud Attorney Today
Allegations of bank fraud can consist of many different criminal charges. While there is no specific law in Nebraska that prohibits bank fraud, it is illegal to knowingly provide false statements to financial institutions, to use a credit card without authorization, and to produce fake financial instruments. A conviction for any of these charges can result in lengthy jail sentences and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing charges for bank fraud, it is essential that you take the necessary steps to protect your future.
Hiring a Lincoln bank fraud lawyer is a step in the right direction. An attorney from Berry Law can help you understand the law as it applies to your case and will develop a defense that is tailored to your specific charges. Contact us today to book your confidential consultation with a professional on our team.
