Fraud charges carry more than just legal penalties—they come with reputational and professional consequences that can permanently alter your future. In California, fraud is classified as a “crime of moral turpitude”—a legal term that signals not only criminal behavior, but a perceived lack of integrity or honesty. And that label can stick with you long after you’ve served any sentence or paid your fines.
At Simmons Wagner, LLP, we represent clients throughout Southern California who are facing white-collar criminal charges, including insurance fraud, healthcare fraud, embezzlement, and other deceptive practices. Here’s what makes fraud cases especially serious—and what you should do if you’re under investigation or facing charges.
What Is a Crime of Moral Turpitude?
A crime of moral turpitude (CMT) is a category used in both criminal and immigration law. It refers to conduct that shocks the public conscience and involves dishonesty, fraud, or deceit. In other words, it’s not just about breaking the law—it’s about violating ethical norms.
Common fraud-related offenses that fall under this category include:
- Insurance fraud
- Credit card fraud
- Wire fraud
- Real estate fraud
- Forgery
- Healthcare billing fraud
- Unemployment or welfare fraud
The problem? A conviction (or even just an accusation) of a crime of moral turpitude can trigger consequences beyond the courtroom.
How a Fraud Charge Can Affect Your Career
Professionals in law, medicine, finance, and other licensed industries are especially vulnerable to fallout from a fraud allegation. Licensing boards—including the California Medical Board, State Bar of California, and Board of Registered Nursing—often initiate disciplinary proceedings as soon as fraud charges are filed.
You may face:
- Suspension or revocation of your professional license
- Mandatory reporting to your employer or state agency
- Denial of future applications for licenses, permits, or contracts
- Difficulty obtaining malpractice insurance or bonding
And because fraud suggests dishonesty, some licensing boards consider it automatically disqualifying—even if the incident occurred outside your workplace.
Immigration Consequences: Deportation and Inadmissibility
If you are not a U.S. citizen, a fraud conviction can be devastating. Immigration law treats crimes of moral turpitude with extreme seriousness, and even a single conviction can lead to:
- Deportation
- Denial of green card or visa renewal
- Ineligibility for naturalization
- Permanent inadmissibility to the U.S.
This is true even if you’ve lived in the country for years or have strong community ties. In fact, immigration consequences can be triggered by misdemeanors—not just felonies.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Get Legal Help
Because of how far-reaching the consequences are, fraud allegations require immediate legal intervention. If you are being investigated, have received a subpoena, or have been arrested, don’t wait until formal charges are filed to seek representation.
At Simmons Wagner, LLP, we work to:
- Protect your rights during investigations
- Prevent or reduce criminal charges through negotiation or pre-filing intervention
- Develop strong legal defenses tailored to your circumstances
- Coordinate with licensing defense or immigration counsel when necessary
- Challenge the prosecution’s interpretation of intent and deception
In many cases, we’re able to resolve matters discreetly—before they become public or impact your professional standing.
Take Allegations of Fraud Seriously—Because the System Does
Fraud is more than just a financial crime. In California, it’s a red flag for courts, licensing boards, and immigration judges alike. Being labeled as someone who committed a crime of moral turpitude can follow you for life—unless you take steps now to protect your rights and your reputation.
If you’re facing fraud charges or under investigation, call (949) 439-5857 to schedule a confidential consultation with Simmons Wagner, LLP. We’re here to help you fight back, clear your name, and protect everything you’ve worked hard to build.