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Workers Compensation Fraud Lawyers
Workers Compensation Fraud Lawyers
Spodek Law Group
If you’re on our website, it’s because you’re worried about a workers compensation fraud allegation— and need a serious defense lawyer right now. At Spodek Law Group, we know how much is at stake. We have over 50 years of combined experience defending clients just like you in state and federal courts. Our philosophy is simple: we aim to get the charges against you dismissed or significantly diminished, and we do it with honesty and commitment.
Understanding Workers Compensation Fraud
Workers compensation fraud comes in many forms— overstating injuries, misreporting payroll, or providing false information on claim forms. Each situation has its own unique peculiarities, and when federal authorities see potential mail or wire fraud (18 U.S.C. §§ 1341, 1343), things escalate quickly. You could also find yourself facing charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1027 (False Statements Related to Benefit Plans), if there’s an allegation you misled an insurance carrier or government agency.
Because federal prosecutors follow the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, you face higher stakes if your case goes beyond the state level. That’s why you need a lawyer prepared to handle both state and federal criminal exposure.
Our Philosophy and Who We Are
We’re a top-rated defense firm that believes every single client deserves honesty and top-tier service. Unlike other law firms that operate like mills, taking on every single client who walks in, we’re selective about who we represent. Our attorneys only work with individuals we truly believe we can help— which ensures we dedicate the necessary time and resources to your case.
Our managing partner, Todd Spodek, is a second-generation attorney with extensive experience handling tough, high-profile criminal cases. Our entire team shares that same mindset and passion for winning. Whether you’re being investigated by local prosecutors or the Department of Justice, we’re ready to defend you and stand by your side.
Potential Scenarios and Defense Strategies
1. Overstated Injury Claims
Scenario: You might have a legitimate injury, but the prosecution claims you exaggerated your symptoms to collect benefits. Investigators may point to surveillance footage or inconsistent medical records.
- Strategy: We dig into how the investigators gathered their evidence. If they violated your Fourth Amendment rights during surveillance, we’ll file a motion to suppress that footage. We also examine your medical records to show any alleged “inconsistencies” are simply normal variations in recovery.
2. Underreporting Payroll or Workforce Size
Scenario: Employers sometimes face workers compensation fraud charges for allegedly minimizing payroll data to lower insurance premiums. If federal authorities allege you used interstate communication to facilitate this, they could pursue charges under mail or wire fraud statutes.
- Strategy: We look for honest mistakes in reporting, or procedural errors by investigators. We explore whether the government properly obtained your financial documents. If there’s a Fourth Amendment violation, we work to exclude that evidence and weaken the prosecutor’s case.
3. Dual Sovereignty and Double Jeopardy
Scenario: You initially faced state-level charges, and now federal prosecutors want to bring a separate case for what feels like the same conduct.
- Legal Consideration: Under the dual sovereignty doctrine (Heath v. Alabama, 474 U.S. 82), federal and state governments can prosecute the same act if it violates each government’s laws. We look carefully to see if the charges truly overlap. If they do, we may invoke double jeopardy concerns and push to dismiss.
4. Alleged Paperwork or Medical Record Alteration
Scenario: The prosecution claims your treating physician or another party falsified documents to secure workers compensation benefits.
- Strategy: We gather all communications with healthcare providers and the insurance carrier to show you never intended to commit fraud. If investigators coerced statements or manipulated evidence, we use Fifth Amendment due process arguments to challenge the prosecution’s case.
Why State vs. Federal Charges Matter
State workers compensation statutes often allow for more judicial discretion, whereas federal guidelines can impose rigid minimum sentences. When you have a defense attorney who can handle federal indictments— especially if your alleged conduct involved interstate communications— you’re in a stronger position. Our law firm’s nationwide reach helps us act quickly, coast to coast.
Penalties and Sentencing Guidelines
If convicted of workers compensation fraud at the federal level— such as under 18 U.S.C. § 1347 (Healthcare Fraud)— your sentence depends on guidelines that account for the total loss amount, any alleged sophisticated means, and whether you have a criminal history. State-level convictions can also lead to substantial fines, restitution, probation, or even prison time. Regardless of which court you’re in, the consequences are life-changing. That’s why we focus on getting you the best outcome possible.
Spodek Law Group’s Commitment
At Spodek Law Group, we provide something other law firms might not: real support at every phase of your defense. We take your trust seriously. We recognize that your future is on the line, and we fight as hard as possible to protect you. Your future, and your families future, is at risk. We are known for our honesty, transparency, and willingness to explore every angle.
Risk-Free Consultation
When you speak to us for the first time, it’s entirely risk-free. We’ll go over the criminal allegations, gather all essential documents, and start crafting a legal strategy. We want you to feel comfortable sharing your concerns so we can shape the strongest defense.
Next Steps
If the government have approached you about potential workers compensation fraud or if you’ve already been charged, contact us right away. Bring everything you have— from medical records to payroll documents— so we can piece together your case. We’re available 24/7 because legal emergencies don’t follow a fixed schedule.