Centrelink Fraud Lawyers | Experienced Lawyers
The judiciary treats Centrelink fraud very seriously. If you have been charged with an offence in this area, you will need lawyers who specialise in Centrelink fraud offences.
Our law firm has extensive experience defending clients against Centrelink prosecutions. We have legal offices in the Melbourne CBD, Ringwood, Frankston, Geelong, Ballarat, Dandenong, Moorabbin, and Werribee areas.
Centrelink’s rules regarding what is and what is not permitted can be very confusing. Often, people charged with these offences are unsure of how they have breached the law.
In circumstances where you have not provided information to Centrelink, resulting in an overpayment, you may have a defence.
Centrelink will ask that you attend their offices for a discussion about the overpayment. If you are asked to attend, be aware that what you say can heavily influence whether or not you are prosecuted. You are not obliged to attend the interview.
What are the likely charges in relation to Centrelink’s overpayment?
What are the likely penalties in relation to Centrelink fraud?
Sentencing of the above offences occurs under the Commonwealth legislation. Commonwealth sentencing is very different to a State sentencing and many practitioners fail to understand the subtle nuances in relation to applying the law.
The Court may find the matter proven and dismissed or an immediate prison sentence could be imposed. There are a number of factors that will impact how the magistrate or judge treats your case.
Typically there are two types of offenders in relation to Centrelink fraud. Those who make gross errors when declaring their earnings, and those who create false identities and claim extra benefits, often running into the tens of thousands of dollars.
In either case, our experienced Centrelink defence lawyers can assist you.
Call now
If you are due to be interviewed or are already facing a prosecution, contact our Melbourne-based law firm today. One of our lawyers who understands and specialises in Centrelink fraud and Commonwealth sentencing practices can assist with preparing your defence.
