Claims and Services in Matters Affecting Government

Federal Defense Lawyer Explains Fraud Crimes Against U.S. Government

There are strict federal laws designed to protect the integrity of government operations and to ensure that only those who are entitled are able to take advantage of government services. To prevent individuals from engaging in unlawful or unethical behavior in connection with claims and services in matters affecting the government, fraudulent, unethical, and dishonest conduct have been criminalized.

There are federal laws prohibiting many different types of behaviors connected to claims and services in government matters. If you are accused of violating these federal laws, you can face harsh penalties.

You could be forced to cope with an investigation into you, could be tried in federal court, and could potentially be sentenced to federal prison.

It is imperative that you find ways to defend against the serious charges that you face – which means you should get help from a qualified federal defense lawyer who understands the rules inside and out in connection with federal crimes.

LV Criminal Defense has successfully represented many clients in Arizona, Utah, California, Nevada and surrounding states who are facing federal charges and we can put our extensive legal knowledge of federal law to work to fight for your future. Give us a call today to find out more.

Federal Laws on Criminal Conduct Connected with Claims and Services in Matters affecting Government

18 U.S. Code Chapter 15 is the part of the federal code that addresses criminal conduct in connection with claims and services in matters affecting government.

There are 13 different statutes found within Chapter 15. However, five of those statutes have been repealed. The laws that were repealed include 18 U.S. Code sections 281, 282, 283, 284, and 293. The remaining statutes in Chapter 15 include the following:

• 18 U.S. Code section 285, which prohibits taking papers related to claims without authorization. This statute also prohibits the use, or attempted use, any of the documents, records, files, or papers that were taken without authorization. Unlawfully taking papers or documents related to claims can result in a fine and imprisonment for up to five years, or both.
• 18 U.S. Code section 286, which prohibits entering into any agreement or conspiracy to defraud the United States or any U.S. Department. Conspiring or agreeing to defraud the U.S. through false claims can result in imprisonment for up to 10 years as well as a fine.
• 18 U.S. Code section 287, which addresses the presentation of false, fraudulent, or fictitious claims. Knowingly presenting false claims to any U.S. officials, agencies, or departments can be considered a violation of section 287. Defendants who violate this statute can be sentenced to up to five years of imprisonment as well as a fine.
• 18 U.S. Code section 288, which makes it a crime to present false claims to obtain compensation for losses through the postal service that did not actually occur. Knowingly and willfully presenting claims to be indemnified for losses, or otherwise making false statements to facilitate approval of claims against the post office, can result in imprisonment for up to a year as well as a fine if convicted of violating 18 U.S. code section 288.
• 18 U.S. Code section 289, which prohibits making false statements or presenting false information concerning claims for pension payments. Knowingly and willingly making false claims for pension payments or knowingly making false statements in connection with false claims for pension payments can result in up to five years imprisonment and a fine.
• 18 U.S. Code section 290, which deals with the withholding of discharge papers by claim agents. Claim agents or others involved in the collection of claims for pay, pensions, or allowances of military members aren’t allowed to withhold, retain, or refuse to deliver discharge papers that can be used to collect claims. Unlawfully withholding discharge papers can result in a fine and imprisonment for up to six months.
• 18 U.S. Code section 291, which prohibits judges, clerks, deputy clerks and others connected with law enforcement from directly or indirectly purchasing any claim against the United States for less than full face value.
• 18 U.S. Code section 292, which addresses unlawful solicitation of employment for yourself or for another person in respect to cases, claims, or awards for compensation. Violation of this statute can result in a fine and could potentially result in up to a year of imprisonment.

If you have been accused of violating any of the laws found within Chapter 15, you should reach out to a federal criminal defense attorney who can help you to understand the nature of the charges and develop an appropriate response to serious accusations.

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