If you’re facing accusations of business fraud over what you believe was an honest mistake, it’s essential to understand that prosecutors may not see it the same way. In the legal world, even a simple error can be twisted into allegations of intentional fraud if not handled carefully. That’s why the first—and most important—step you should take is to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately.
At Simmons & Wagner, we’ve seen firsthand how small business errors—like accounting mistakes, clerical oversights, or misunderstood regulatory obligations—can quickly escalate into criminal investigations. Prosecutors often assume the worst and aggressively pursue charges even when no criminal intent existed.
That’s why early intervention matters. By consulting a skilled business fraud defense attorney early, you can:
- Avoid making damaging statements to investigators
- Preserve critical evidence that demonstrates your good faith
- Begin building a defense narrative that explains the situation truthfully and clearly
- Possibly prevent charges from ever being filed
Intent is the key difference between a civil issue and a criminal fraud case. Mistakes happen in business all the time. What transforms a mistake into a crime is the allegation that you deliberately intended to deceive someone for personal gain. Our role as your defense team is to show that no such intent existed—and to demonstrate your history of transparency, good-faith actions, and corrective efforts if a mistake was discovered.
As former Orange County District Attorneys, we know how these cases are built—and more importantly, where they often fall apart. We use that insider knowledge to aggressively challenge the government’s assumptions, dispute their evidence, and protect your rights every step of the way.
If you’re under investigation or have already been charged, don’t wait. The sooner you act, the stronger your defense will be.
Contact Simmons & Wagner today for a confidential consultation. We’re ready to fight for your future.