Unemployment Fraud Attorneys in Phoenix

Unemployment Benefits Fraud & Department of Economic Security (DES) Fraud

Arizona Revised Statutes § 23-785 provides that:

Any person who knowingly makes a false statement or representation believing it to be false or who knowingly fails to disclose a material fact in order to obtain or increase a benefit or other payment under this chapter either for himself or for another person, or under an employment security law of another state, the federal government or a foreign government, is guilty of a class 6 felony. Each such false statement or representation or failure to disclose a material fact shall constitute a separate offense.

Individuals are often charged with unemployment fraud under the foregoing statute in situations where their economic situation changes after obtaining unemployment benefits, such as when they obtain a new job, and they (sometimes innocently) fail to advise the Department of Economic Security (DES) of that fact. Receiving a Summons and Complaint for an unemployment insurance fraud case can often be a very scary experience. In many cases, there will be multiple charges of fraud and may be additional related charges as well.

The Department of Economic Security's Role

The DES prosecutes these actions as class 6 felonies under Arizona law and seeks full restitution from those who are charged. In fact, the DES has specific sections of its website dedicated to unemployment insurance fraud and provides an online form for reporting unemployment insurance fraud.

They are also dedicated to reporting recent convictions of the offense. In short, the DES takes these cases seriously, and you should seek the advice of a competent attorney to assist you.

Although a class 6 felony is a serious charge, and prison or jail time are potential consequences, it may be possible to obtain a dismissal of the charges or a plea to a reduced charge in many cases. If you have not yet been charged, but suspect that you may be, an attorney may be able to help you avoid charges by being proactive.

Contact Professionals Who Understand

If you have been charged or suspect that you may be charged with unemployment compensation fraud in Arizona, you should contact an attorney to discuss your case immediately. The knowledgeable and experienced attorneys at the Phoenix, Arizona law firm of MayesTelles PLLC are available to discuss the specific details of your Arizona unemployment insurance fraud case with you in a free consultation any time day or night.

Call (602) 428-7104 to speak to an attorney today.