Benefit fraud is not the same as benefit overpayments. Receiving overpayments can be the result of a mistake by the benefits office or because you may not have been aware that you had to inform the benefit office of any change in your circumstances which meant you were entitled to less benefit.
Prosecutions will normally start with an interview under caution. You don’t have to appoint the duty solicitor; you have the right to request a solicitor of your choice to represent you. If the police think they have enough evidence to prosecute you, legal proceedings will start with a formal charge or a court summons.
This is a serious matter and we strongly advise that you contact us to arrange legal representation for you. Depending on your circumstances you may be eligible for legal aid and this is something we can advise you on. We’ll also be able to inform you of where your case will be heard and guide you on what your plea should be and the likely sentence.
A number of factors can determine the seriousness of your case. Generally, the amount of money involved and the length of time the fraud was carried out over are primary considerations for the court. Also, whether the proceeds of the fraud were used to fund a lavish lifestyle will have a bearing on the sentence.
On the other hand, there may be mitigating circumstances where a reduced sentence is more appropriate, such as no previous convictions, remorse or ill health. While this is a broad guide, each case is unique and we recommend you speak to us so we can advise you on your individual circumstances.
Crime Partner
Crime Partner
4 out of 5
Senior Crown Court Litigator
Senior Crown Court Litigator
4.9 out of 5
Crime Partner
3.8 out of 5
Crime Solicitor
Crime Solicitor
Crime Solicitor
Trainee Solicitor Crime
Crime Solicitor
Trainee Solicitor Crime
Crime Paralegal
Crime Solicitor
"I would like to thank you all at Russell's and a big thank you to Nick Ross who was nothing but excellent on my representation. A great company with great people and I will never forget how helpful you all were.
"Please pass on to Mr Ross again for my gratitude and I will pass on a highly recommended company to people in need of it comes to that."
"Dear Mr Whittaker, thank you very much for representing and defending my case. Thank you for the legal aid, your valuable advice and support and kind attitude. I am very grateful to you forever! Your profession is very noble, I admire this very much. Thank you from my heart, wishing you every success."
"I write to you too show my gratitude for the excellent service I have received off yourself and your Barrister.
"Firstly Ian, I would like too thank you for your strong professional attitude from day one you assisted and re-assured me in what was a very difficult and new environment for me, throughout the case you provided clear and concise helpful information that gave myself a much better understanding in difficult circumstances, I came to our meetings with many questions and it was not just that you answered these it was the way in which you did so without hesitation that gave me a lasting impression of what a professional you truly are, it was your preparation that gave me confidence when I needed it the most so a sincere thank you.
"For your Barrister again an unbelievable professional with a distinct eye for detail I have not previously come across, with such a warm personality in harsh circumstances a man I could trust always had my best interests at the forefront, over a period that was the most difficult time of my life your Barrister's astuteness gave me comfort, when I witnessed your Barrister's defence statement the content and delivery was of real power and almost cinematic, a very understanding and relatable gentleman all the best wishes.
"Again a sincere thank you to you both you made an excellent team and gave me the confidence needed."
"I'd like... to thank Mr Liston, he is very good at his job and makes things very clear and very fair. I'd also like to take the time to thank the solicitor who covered for Mr Liston on the day. Mr Leather is is very polite and immaculate at his job....Once again thanks to all the staff, receptionist, Russell and Russell, yous are all specialist at what you do."
"Internet initial contact was easy and efficient. Excellent, friendly and professional service, highly recommendable to others."....
"To all at Russell and Russell Chester office,
I am writing to thank you, your team, especially Mr Howard Jones who was the solicitor representing me on my case recently at Mold Magistrates Court for the outstanding work you did for me. Words cannot express my appreciation... You were superbly efficient and professional. Your foresight on all matters of my case was truly remarkable. I owe the success and victory of my case to your knowledge and support which you showed throughout the last few months that you were handling my case.
It goes without saying that I will always refer to your firm, if the need ever arises for legal assistance again, having nothing but praise and recommendation for your company."
Need to update your will?
Got family issues?