PRACTICE AREA
Fraud Lawyer Melbourne - Expert Legal Defence for Fraud and Dishonesty Charges
Tough times call for a Criminal Lawyer
Facing Fraud Charges? Trust Our Expert Fraud Lawyers in Melbourne
Areas of Practice
Call us on (03) 8590 8370 for a free consultation with a leading fraud lawyer Melbourne.
Why Choose Haitch Legal as Your Fraud Lawyer Melbourne?
As trusted fraud lawyers in Melbourne, we combine decades of courtroom experience with a client-focused approach to deliver exceptional legal representation.
We are experts in defending against a wide range of fraud and dishonesty offences under the Crimes Act 1958 (Vic), Summary Offences Act 1966 (Vic), and Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth) for Commonwealth matters such as Centrelink fraud.
Our expertise includes:
- Identity theft
- Theft and money laundering
- Centrelink fraud
- Credit card fraud
- Tax and superannuation fraud
- Mortgage and loan fraud
- Shoplifting and theft
- WorkCover fraud
- HECS fraud
- Embezzlement
- Insider trading
- Mass market fraud
- False statements by company directors
- Suppression of documents
Our fraud lawyer Melbourne team takes a proactive approach, meticulously analysing evidence and crafting tailored defence strategies to minimise penalties or secure dismissals. Whether you’re facing charges in the Magistrates’ Court, County Court, or Supreme Court of Victoria, we are here to protect your future.
Understanding Fraud Offences in Victoria
Fraud encompasses various forms of dishonest conduct and financial deception under Victorian and Commonwealth law. Key offences include:
- Obtaining property or a financial advantage by deception (Crimes Act 1958, s 81-82)
- Using false documents or identity information (Crimes Act 1958, s 83A)
- Blackmail (Crimes Act 1958, s 87)
- False accounting (Crimes Act 1958, s 83)
- Unlawful possession of property suspected to be stolen (Crimes Act 1958, s 88)
- Commonwealth fraud offences, such as Centrelink fraud (Criminal Code Act 1995, s 134.2)
Penalties for Fraud Offences
Penalties vary depending on the severity of the offence and the court in which it is heard. Below are the maximum penalties under current legislation as of July 2025:
- Obtaining property/financial advantage by deception: Up to 10 years imprisonment (Crimes Act 1958, s 81-82).
- Blackmail: Up to 15 years imprisonment (Crimes Act 1958, s 87).
- Money laundering: Up to 7–20 years imprisonment, depending on the scale (Criminal Code Act 1995, s 400.3–400.8).
- Centrelink fraud: Up to 10 years imprisonment (Criminal Code Act 1995, s 134.2).
- Identification or document fraud: Up to 5 years imprisonment (Crimes Act 1958, s 83A).
- Unlawful possession of suspected stolen goods: Up to 15 year imprisonment or fines (Crimes Act 1958, s 88).
- Taking/using a vehicle without consent: Up to 3 months imprisonment or 15 penalty units (Summary Offences Act 1966, s 27).
Many fraud charges are indictable and heard in the County Court, but less severe cases may be resolved in the Magistrates’ Court. Our fraud lawyer Melbourne team will assess your case to determine the best jurisdiction and strategy, including charge negotiations or diversion programs where applicable.
Defence Strategies by Our Fraud Lawyer Melbourne Team
Building a robust defence requires deep legal insight and meticulous preparation. Our fraud lawyers in Melbourne employ proven strategies to challenge the prosecution’s case, including:
- Demonstrating lack of dishonest intent.
- Proving you were not involved in the alleged act.
- Establishing a mistaken belief in your right to the property.
- Arguing you acted under duress or coercion.
- Showing you were unaware of the fraudulent nature of the conduct.
The prosecution must prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt. Our fraud lawyer Melbourne team will scrutinise evidence, challenge inconsistencies and present compelling legal arguments to protect your rights.
Our Client-Focused Approach
At Haitch Legal, we believe everyone deserves access to high-quality legal defence. As affordable fraud lawyers in Melbourne, we offer:
- Free initial consultations to discuss your case in confidence.
- Fixed-fee options and transparent billing.
- Tailored defence strategies to suit your unique circumstances.
- Clear, compassionate communication throughout the process.
- Proven experience in Melbourne’s Magistrates’, County and Supreme Courts.
Our process is straightforward:
- Initial Consultation: Discuss your situation in full confidentiality.
- Case Assessment: Review charges, evidence, and potential risks.
- Strategic Defence Planning: Develop a tailored defence aligned with your goals.
- Negotiation & Representation: Engage with police, prosecutors and courts.
- Final Outcome: Pursue the best result, whether through negotiation, diversion or trial.
Why Haitch Legal is Your Trusted Fraud Lawyer Melbourne
With a proven track record of securing favourable outcomes, Haitch Legal stands out as a leading fraud lawyer Melbourne. Our strengths include:
- Extensive courtroom experience across Melbourne’s courts.
- Compassionate, clear communication to keep you informed.
- Meticulous case preparation for the strongest defence.
- Results-driven strategies tailored to your needs.
Top 5 FAQs About Fraud Offences in Melbourne
Contact a fraud lawyer Melbourne immediately. Avoid speaking to police without legal representation to protect your rights and interests.
Jail is possible for serious offences, but our fraud lawyers in Melbourne can pursue alternatives like fines, community orders or charge withdrawals.
Yes, if evidence is insufficient or through successful negotiations by your fraud lawyer Melbourne.
Resolution time varies from weeks to months, depending on case complexity and court schedules.
Costs depend on case complexity, but Haitch Legal offers affordable fixed-fee options and payment plans.
Book Your Free Consultation with a Fraud Lawyer Melbourne
Don’t face fraud charges alone. Trust Haitch Legal’s Fraud Offence Lawyers Melbourne to provide expert guidance and robust representation.
Call (03) 8590 8370 for a free and confidential consultation.