If you face fraud charges in Dayton or anywhere in Ohio, you need a criminal defense attorney who understands the serious consequences of bank fraud, insurance fraud, tax fraud, wire fraud, and mail fraud allegations. Moermond & Mulligan, LLC defends clients accused of fraud at both the state and federal levels. The attorneys bring decades of trial experience defending clients facing financial crime charges. They investigate the evidence against you, challenge prosecution claims, and work to build a defense strategy tailored to your case.

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Why Choose Moermond & Mulligan, LLC for Your Fraud Defense

Moermond & Mulligan, LLC has defended clients accused of fraud for many years. L. Patrick Mulligan, a founding attorney, holds Board Certification in Criminal Law from the National Board of Trial Advocacy. Brad Moermond, a co-founder, is a former Assistant Prosecutor at the Montgomery County Prosecutor’s Office and has prosecuted felony cases.

This combination of credentials, trial experience, and prosecutorial background helps the firm understand how prosecutors build fraud cases. The attorneys know what types of evidence often matter, what weaknesses can sometimes exist in the prosecution’s case, and how to present a defense to judges and juries. The firm handles fraud cases with focused attention and resources and is available to discuss your situation.

Understanding Fraud Charges in Ohio

Fraud charges come in many forms, and each carries different elements that prosecutors must prove. Understanding the specific charges against you is the first step toward building your defense.

Bank Fraud

Bank fraud generally involves using deception to obtain money, credit, or property from a bank or financial institution. This can include allegations of submitting false loan applications, forging documents, misrepresenting financial conditions, or using stolen account information. Bank fraud charges may be brought at the state level under Ohio law or at the federal level under statutes such as 18 U.S.C. § 1344. Federal penalties can be significant, and state penalties vary depending on the amount involved and criminal history.

Insurance Fraud

Insurance fraud occurs when someone is accused of intentionally deceiving an insurance company to obtain benefits they are not entitled to. This can include filing allegedly false claims, exaggerating losses, staging accidents, or submitting fraudulent medical bills. Insurance fraud may involve health insurance, auto insurance, homeowners’ insurance, or workers’ compensation claims. Potential penalties depend on the amount of the claim and whether the charge is filed as a felony or misdemeanor.

Federal vs. State Fraud Prosecution

Understanding whether you face federal or state charges is important for your defense strategy. Federal fraud charges frequently involve wire fraud or mail fraud, which often concern conduct that crosses state lines or uses interstate communications. Wire fraud typically involves electronic communications such as phone calls, emails, or online transactions. Mail fraud generally involves the use of the U.S. Postal Service or private carriers. These federal offenses can carry substantial potential prison terms and fines.

State fraud charges are prosecuted under Ohio law and typically involve conduct occurring within the state. State penalties vary based on the degree of the offense and the amount involved. Federal cases may involve federal agencies and U.S. District Court proceedings, while state cases involve local police, county prosecutors, and state courts. The investigation process, discovery rules, and sentencing structures differ between federal and state matters.

Defense Strategies for Fraud Allegations

When you’re accused of fraud, the defense should not simply accept the prosecution’s version of events. The attorneys review the facts, examine the evidence, and develop defense strategies based on your specific situation.

Investigation and Evidence Review

The defense begins by reviewing the evidence the prosecution has gathered. This can include documents, emails, financial records, witness statements, and other records. The attorneys look for inconsistencies, missing information, and potential problems with how the investigation was conducted. When appropriate, they may work with forensic accountants, digital forensics professionals, or investigators to analyze financial and electronic records and to speak with witnesses. They also examine whether law enforcement followed proper procedures and whether your constitutional rights were respected.

Challenging Prosecution Evidence

Fraud cases often rely heavily on documents and financial data. The defense may challenge how those documents are interpreted, whether they are complete, and whether they have been presented in context. Depending on the facts, defenses may involve contesting whether you had the intent to defraud, whether you reasonably relied on information or advice from others, or whether the alleged victim suffered an actual loss. Cross-examination of prosecution witnesses can help reveal weaknesses or uncertainties in their testimony.

Penalties and Consequences of Fraud Convictions

Fraud convictions can carry serious criminal and collateral consequences that extend beyond any prison time and fines.

Criminal Penalties

Potential penalties for fraud-related convictions depend on whether the case is federal or state, the specific statutes charged, the amount involved, and your prior record. Federal statutes governing wire fraud, mail fraud, bank fraud, and tax-related offenses authorize significant terms of imprisonment and fines. State fraud offenses in Ohio range from misdemeanors to higher-level felonies, with corresponding sentencing ranges that can include jail or prison time, community control, and financial penalties. Courts may also order restitution to alleged victims in addition to fines.

Collateral Consequences

A fraud conviction can affect many areas of life. You may face difficulties with professional licensing, particularly in fields that involve finance, fiduciary duties, or public trust. Employment prospects can be harmed if background checks reveal a fraud-related conviction. You may encounter challenges obtaining housing or loans. For non-citizens, fraud-related convictions can have immigration consequences, including potential removal proceedings.

What to Do If You’re Accused of Fraud

If you’re under investigation for fraud or have been charged, consider taking these steps promptly:

Avoid discussing the details of the situation with anyone other than your attorney.
Do not speak with investigators or prosecutors about the allegations without legal counsel present.
Do not destroy or alter documents or electronic records.
Contact Moermond & Mulligan, LLC so the firm can begin assessing the case, protecting your rights, and communicating with law enforcement or prosecutors on your behalf.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between wire fraud and mail fraud?

Wire fraud generally involves alleged use of electronic communications such as phone calls, emails, text messages, online transactions, or wire transfers in connection with a scheme to defraud. Mail fraud generally involves alleged use of the U.S. Postal Service or private carriers in connection with such a scheme. Both are federal offenses with potentially significant penalties, and the distinction primarily relates to the type of communication used and the specific statutes involved.

Can fraud charges be dismissed?

Fraud charges can sometimes be dismissed if the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence, if key evidence is excluded, or if there are legal defects in the case. Constitutional violations, improper searches or seizures, or expired statutes of limitations can also form the basis for dismissal in some situations. Your attorney will review the facts and law to determine whether there are grounds to seek dismissal.

What should I do if the FBI contacts me?

If federal agents contact you about possible fraud, you should avoid answering substantive questions before speaking with a lawyer. You can politely state that you wish to consult with an attorney. Then contact Moermond & Mulligan, LLC so the firm can advise you and, if appropriate, communicate with agents on your behalf. Learn more about what happens during a federal investigation.

How long do fraud investigations take?

Fraud investigations, especially federal ones, can take months or even years, depending on the complexity of the financial records and the number of people or entities involved. During this time, you may or may not know if or when charges will be filed. Having counsel involved early can help you understand the process and prepare for potential outcomes.

Will I go to jail for fraud charges?

Whether a person goes to jail or prison for fraud depends on many factors, including the specific charge, the amount involved, the person’s criminal history, and how the case is resolved. Some individuals receive probation or community control, while others may receive custodial sentences. Your attorney can explain the potential sentencing exposure in your case and work to minimize the consequences.

Can I get a fraud conviction expunged in Ohio?

Expungement eligibility in Ohio depends on the specific offense, the disposition, and your overall record. Some convictions may be eligible for sealing or expungement after a waiting period, while others are excluded. An attorney can review your history and advise whether seeking sealing or expungement is an option. Learn more about how to expunge a criminal record in Cincinnati, Ohio.

What is the statute of limitations for fraud?

Statutes of limitations for fraud vary. Many federal fraud offenses have a general five-year limitations period, though some statutes provide longer periods in specific circumstances. Ohio state offenses have their own limitation periods depending on the degree and type of offense. Your attorney will compare the alleged conduct dates with the applicable statutes to determine whether limitations issues may apply.

Contact Moermond & Mulligan, LLC for Fraud Defense in Dayton

If you face fraud charges or are under investigation, do not wait to get legal guidance. Contact Moermond & Mulligan, LLC today for a free consultation. Call (937) 228-9790 to discuss your situation and learn about your options. The firm defends clients throughout Ohio in both state and federal courts.

Last Updated: 06-12-2026

Fraud Defense Attorney in Dayton, Ohio