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Fraud

Types of Fraud Cases We Handle

At Simmons Wagner, LLP, we understand the far-reaching consequences of fraud and the damage it can do to individuals, institutions, and businesses alike. Our team is dedicated to thoroughly examining all aspects of fraudulent activity and providing comprehensive representation to those impacted. Contact us today at (949) 439-5857 for a free legal consultation.

Academic Fraud

Plagiarism

Plagiarism involves taking someone else’s work or ideas and passing them off as one’s own, which can occur in academic papers, articles, research projects, and more. Our approach involves scrutinizing all evidence—written or digital—to determine the extent of misappropriation, the intent, and the academic institution’s internal policies that may affect your case. We strive to protect the rights and reputations of both individuals and institutions dealing with these allegations.

Research Fabrication

Research fabrication is a serious issue in academia, where false or altered data is presented as legitimate findings. At Simmons Wagner, LLP, we work closely with experts to analyze research protocols, data sets, and laboratory procedures, ensuring that any discrepancies are brought to light. Whether you are facing allegations of research misconduct or suspect it from a colleague or competitor, our team will guide you through the often complex investigative and legal processes.

Degree Mills

Degree mills grant illegitimate academic credentials without the rigorous coursework or standards mandated by accredited schools. Our services here may involve investigating the legitimacy of purported degrees, confronting fraudulent institutions, or defending parties accused of relying on questionable credentials. We understand the legal and reputational stakes, and our thorough approach ensures that all relevant details come to the forefront.

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Corporate & Managerial Fraud

Resume Fraud

Misrepresenting qualifications on a résumé or job application can lead to significant ramifications for both individuals and employers. Our team at Simmons Wagner, LLP reviews employment records, background checks, and official documents to substantiate the authenticity of any contested credentials or accomplishments. We help clients navigate the aftermath of résumé fraud accusations or uncover fraudulent claims by others that impact corporate staffing decisions.

Kickbacks

Kickback schemes involve illegal payments or advantages exchanged in return for favorable treatment—such as awarding contracts, granting professional privileges, or offering discounts in business deals. We analyze financial records, contracts, and communication trails to determine whether improper compensation was exchanged. By comprehensively examining the paper trail and digital evidence, we aim to establish the facts and protect our clients from unjust accusations or financial liability.

Vendor Fraud

Vendor fraud occurs when a supplier or external contractor exploits a company’s billing, procurement, or payment systems. This can include inflated invoices, delivery of substandard goods, or billing for services never rendered. At Simmons Wagner, LLP, we conduct detailed audits of vendor agreements, transactional records, and communication logs to spot potential irregularities. Our goal is to safeguard organizational integrity and hold wrongdoers accountable.

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Financial Fraud

Bank Fraud

Bank fraud takes on many forms—from check fraud to fraudulent loan applications and unauthorized electronic transfers. By meticulously reviewing financial statements, transaction histories, and relevant banking records, we help individuals and institutions identify culpable parties, recover losses, and defend against allegations of financial misconduct.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement happens when someone entrusted with assets—such as money, property, or sensitive information—misappropriates them for personal gain. We investigate the chain of custody for funds and assets, assess internal controls, and outline comprehensive strategies to address both civil and criminal implications. Our experience extends to embezzlement cases involving corporate funds, charitable organizations, and even family trusts.

Insider Trading

Insider trading involves buying or selling securities based on non-public, material information. The legal challenges can be intricate, involving the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and possibly criminal prosecution. At Simmons Wagner, LLP, we help clients navigate insider trading allegations by evaluating electronic communications, trade timing, and industry regulations to build a thorough case.

Falsifying Financial Statements

Altering or manipulating financial statements to present an inaccurate picture of a company’s financial health is a severe offense with substantial penalties. We work with forensic accountants and industry experts to uncover hidden transactions, off-the-book accounts, or deliberate misrepresentation. Our dedicated approach ensures that each data point is carefully scrutinized, whether you are bringing forward a claim or mounting a strong defense.

Mortgage Fraud

Mortgage fraud schemes can involve misrepresentation on loan applications, inflated property appraisals, or illicit property flipping. Our methodology includes verifying documentation, tracing money flows, and consulting with real estate specialists to confirm or refute any allegations. From homeowners to lenders, our clients benefit from a detail-oriented process that addresses every aspect of mortgage fraud.

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Healthcare Fraud

Insurance Billing Fraud

Insurance billing fraud involves submitting false claims to insurers to receive unwarranted payments. Common scenarios include upcoding procedures, billing for services not provided, or inflating fees. Our approach includes analyzing medical records, reviewing billing statements, and consulting with health industry specialists to distinguish legitimate errors from fraudulent activities.

Prescription Fraud

Prescription fraud entails forging or altering prescriptions, doctor shopping to obtain multiple prescriptions, or misrepresenting medical information to acquire controlled substances. At Simmons Wagner, LLP, we closely examine medical documentation, pharmacy logs, and digital platforms to identify irregularities and establish liability. Our emphasis on thorough research ensures that each case receives a meticulous review.

Unnecessary Medical Procedures

In some instances, healthcare providers may recommend or perform procedures that are not medically required, thus inflating insurance claims or placing patients at risk. We collaborate with medical experts to evaluate procedural necessity, analyze patient outcomes, and review health insurance protocols. This holistic approach allows us to build a robust case, whether you are a whistleblower exposing fraudulent practices or a provider facing unfair accusations.

Medical Billing Fraud

Medical billing fraud can overlap with insurance fraud, but it often focuses on inaccurate coding, bundled services disguised as separate claims, or billing for non-existent patients. By dissecting billing statements, coding logs, and internal communications, we help uncover systemic issues or defend against complex allegations. Our objective is to ensure the integrity of the healthcare billing system and protect our clients’ interests.

Workers Compensation Fraud

This type of fraud can be perpetrated by employees (exaggerating or fabricating injuries) or employers (misclassifying workers or under-reporting payroll). Our investigations delve into employment records, medical evidence, and witness statements to clarify the legitimacy of each claim. Whether you are an employer fighting inflated claims or an injured worker wrongly accused, our team brings clarity to a frequently contentious area of law.

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Immigration Fraud

Immigration fraud encompasses falsified documents, sham marriages, misrepresenting personal history, and more. Navigating immigration regulations and processes can be complex, and allegations of fraud carry severe consequences, including deportation and criminal charges. We collaborate with immigration experts, review official documentation, and consult witnesses to build the strongest possible defense or prosecution strategy.

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Internet Fraud

Internet fraud spans a wide range of schemes, including phishing, identity theft, online auction scams, and credit card fraud carried out via digital platforms. As technology rapidly evolves, so do the methods cybercriminals use to exploit individuals and businesses. At Simmons Wagner, LLP, we utilize cybersecurity resources, forensic data analysis, and cross-jurisdictional investigations to uncover digital footprints. Whether you are a victim of internet fraud or face allegations of such misconduct, we offer robust guidance and representation.

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Legal fraud occurs when attorneys or law firms are accused of misrepresenting facts, mishandling client funds, or violating professional conduct rules. At Simmons Wagner, LLP, we provide strong defense for legal professionals facing these allegations by reviewing case files, financial records, and bar association standards. Our experience in professional ethics allows us to protect reputations, challenge unfounded claims, and resolve matters with discretion and care.

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Professional License Defense

Legal Fraud

Allegations of legal fraud occur when attorneys or law firms are accused of misrepresenting facts, mishandling client funds, or violating professional conduct rules. We help legal professionals maintain their integrity by examining client records, financial transactions, and the specific rules governing bar association codes of conduct. Our in-depth knowledge of professional ethics enables us to craft strong defenses for those facing charges.

Client Overbilling

Charging excessive fees or billing for tasks not performed can jeopardize a professional’s reputation and livelihood. Our team carefully reviews engagement letters, billing statements, and time logs to verify the accuracy of charges. By investigating how fee structures were communicated and documented, we help uncover genuine mistakes or expose deliberate attempts at inflating costs.

Conflict of Interest

Conflicts of interest arise when professional obligations clash with personal gain or outside relationships, leading to questions about fairness and impartiality. We work to identify potential conflicts by scrutinizing financial ties, contractual agreements, and personal connections. Our thorough approach helps professionals address and mitigate conflicts before they escalate into legal or ethical violations.

Evidence Tampering

Evidence tampering involves altering, concealing, or destroying evidence that is critical to a legal case or investigation. If a license holder—such as an attorney, accountant, or healthcare provider—is accused of manipulating evidence, their entire career may be at stake. We dive deep into chain-of-custody records, digital forensics, and any relevant regulatory guidelines to pinpoint where and how the alleged tampering occurred.

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Moving Forward with the Help of an Irvine, CA Fraud Attorney

Fraud can surface in countless forms, each with its own unique set of legal standards, evidentiary requirements, and potential consequences. At Simmons Wagner, LLP, our comprehensive approach to fraud cases ensures that no detail goes unnoticed. We invite you to explore our more detailed pages on each fraud type, where we dive deeper into the specifics of each case and outline how our dedicated team can help.
If you or your organization are confronting allegations of fraud—or if you suspect fraudulent activity and need clear guidance—our door is always open. Contact us today at (949) 439-5857 to learn more about how we can protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.

(949) 439-5857