Austin Business Lawyer

Civil Fraud

Civil fraud, not to be confused with criminal fraud, is considered a tort offense in the United States. Legally, tort refers to a crime that is not affiliated with a breach of contract, but which does harm someone in some way. This includes damage to one’s property or commercial interests. Fraud is an act of deception used to make some sort of personal gain from another person. Civil fraud, therefore, is a form of fraud involving the false representation of a real fact in order to make a gain from another individual.

Civil fraud may come in many different forms. Typically, these are issues that happen between two individuals. These minor crimes include such acts as failing to return borrowed money or items, perhaps taken from a friend or relative, or giving someone a false check. Underpayment of one’s taxes may also result from civil fraud, in the case of the issuance of a bad check.

Punishment

“Preponderance of evidence” is all that is necessary to charge an individual with civil fraud. Since this is considered a tort law violation, the punishment for civil fraud is typically some sort of monetary reimbursement to be paid out to the victim for damages.

Contact Us

If you have been charged with civil fraud, the Austin civil fraud attorneys of Salter, Kennon, & Jameson, LLP can help you out. Please contact their law offices today at 512-472-2431 to schedule an appointment.