Blog
Aurora SNAP Violation LAwyers
There’s one reason you’re on this website: you’re looking for an elite criminal defense law firm, because you or your business is facing serious SNAP violation charges. 1 Most law firms implement a cookie cutter strategy in order to fight your case, and save their own time, but they don’t look carefully at your situation – they simply want to move on to the next case. 1 At Spodek Law Group, we leave no stone unturned. 1 We do everything possible to win. 1 Everything we do is focused on getting you results. 1We understand the difficult challenges of going through a SNAP case. 1 If you’re accused of SNAP fraud or violations, schedule a consultation with our elite SNAP violation attorneys today. 1
Contents
- 1 What is a SNAP Violation?
- 2 Why You Need a Specialist SNAP Violation Attorney
- 3 The Spodek Law Group Approach
- 4 Rapid Response: Why It’s Critical
- 5 The Human Element
- 6 A Compassionate Approach
- 7 The Next Step
- 8 The Consequences of SNAP Fraud
- 9 Your Rights if Accused of SNAP Fraud
- 10 Retailer SNAP Compliance: A Proactive Approach
- 11 1. Comprehensive Policy Development
- 12 2. Staff Training Programs
- 13 3. Ongoing Auditing and Monitoring
- 14 4. Violation Response Protocols
What is a SNAP Violation?
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, provides financial assistance to low-income households for purchasing food. 2 As a SNAP-authorized retailer, you’re required to follow strict rules set by the USDA. 5Violations can range from seemingly minor infractions like selling ineligible items, to serious offenses like trafficking SNAP benefits (exchanging them for cash). 5 Consequences are severe – temporary disqualification, permanent removal from SNAP, and even criminal charges. 5Common SNAP violations include:
- Trafficking benefits
- Selling ineligible items
- Allowing purchase of non-food items
- Giving cash change for SNAP purchases
Why You Need a Specialist SNAP Violation Attorney
Sometimes prosecutors will only be fair if you respond with force. 1 Without an attorney advising you, you might accidentally plead guilty when you could’ve won the case. 1 The only way to truly know is to hire a private criminal defense attorney. 1At Spodek Law Group, we pride ourselves on taking a hands-on approach, researching every intimate detail of your situation and putting in the legwork. 1 Our firm has excellent work ethics, constantly holding meetings to discuss all cases. 1 In emergencies, we have a full team available to help you 24/7. 1Our founder, Todd Spodek, is a nationally recognized SNAP violation attorney with deep expertise in this niche area of law. 5 He’s not just a legal expert, but a passionate advocate for small businesses, fighting to protect your rights and livelihood. 5
The Spodek Law Group Approach
Every case is unique, which is why we take a personalized approach, developing a customized defense strategy tailored to your situation. 5 Our process:1. Thorough Evidence Review
We meticulously analyze all evidence against you, identifying potential weaknesses in the government’s case. 52. Leverage Expertise
Drawing upon our extensive knowledge of SNAP regulations and case law, we build a strong defense strategy. 53. Explore All Options
Whether challenging charges, negotiating settlements, or taking your case to an administrative hearing, we leave no option unexplored to secure the best possible outcome. 5But our services don’t stop at defense. We believe in a proactive approach, helping you implement robust compliance programs to prevent future violations and safeguard your business long-term. 5
Rapid Response: Why It’s Critical
When it comes to SNAP violations, time is of the essence – you have a mere 10 days to respond to charges. 5 That’s why we pride ourselves on rapid response capabilities, ensuring you get immediate attention and guidance. 5From the moment you contact us, our team springs into action, working around the clock to prepare a comprehensive response and protect your rights. 5 We understand the urgency of these charges and treat every case with urgency it deserves. 5
The Human Element
Regardless of how tough your situation is, we are here to help you. 1 Our criminal defense lawyers work hard to find a solution, irrespective of the circumstances. 1Many clients are embarrassed by their situation and don’t speak openly about the alleged issues. 1 We encourage open dialogue and transparency so we can provide the best possible legal advice. 1The Spodek Law Group handles cases nationwide from our offices in NYC and Los Angeles. 1 We service an exceptional clientele that expects high-class service and an excellent understanding of the law. 1 We have over 50 years of combined experience handling misdemeanors and felonies across the nation. 1
A Compassionate Approach
We know you’re stressed, this is a hard situation – let’s solve this together. 1 At Spodek Law Group, every single client is like family. 1Our criminal defense attorneys are dedicated to providing the highest level of customer service. 1 We take our work seriously, with Todd Spodek, our founding partner, bringing years of seasoned trial experience. 1Todd is a second-generation lawyer who has handled hundreds of trials and has been featured as a legal expert across major news outlets like New York Post, Newsweek, Fox 5 New York and more. 1
The Next Step
If you receive a SNAP violation letter, do not ignore it or respond alone – contact an experienced SNAP violation lawyer immediately to meet the 10-day response deadline. 5At Spodek Law Group, we offer free consultations to discuss your situation and provide transparent pricing information upfront, ensuring you understand all costs before any commitments. 5In some cases, you may be able to continue accepting SNAP benefits while your case is resolved, determined on factors like violation severity and risk to program integrity. 5But take a deep breath, you’ve got an elite team of lawyers ready to fight for you and your business. 1 Schedule your free consultation today.
The Consequences of SNAP Fraud
While SNAP violations cover a range of offenses, SNAP fraud refers specifically to intentionally lying, misrepresenting information, or illegally using SNAP benefits. 3The consequences of SNAP fraud are severe:Disqualification from SNAP
- 1st offense: 12-month disqualification
- 2nd offense: 24-month disqualification
- 3rd offense: Permanent disqualification 3
Longer Disqualifications for Certain Offenses
- Trading SNAP for drugs/alcohol: 24-month disqualification
- Trading SNAP for guns/ammunition: Permanent disqualification
- Selling SNAP worth $500+: Permanent disqualification
- Getting multiple SNAP allotments: 10-year disqualification 3
Repayment of Overpaid Benefits
Adult household members must repay any overpaid SNAP benefits resulting from the fraud. 3Criminal Charges
While SNAP fraud itself is not a criminal violation, states may file additional criminal charges like fraud against the retailer. 3
Your Rights if Accused of SNAP Fraud
If accused of an Intentional Program Violation (IPV) like fraud, you have rights, including:
- Receiving notice of the charges and a hearing date 3
- Continuing to receive SNAP until the process concludes 3
- Requesting a fair hearing to dispute the charges 3
- Having legal representation, though not provided for you 3
- Presenting evidence and cross-examining witnesses 3
- Appealing an unfavorable decision through additional hearings 3
Do not simply admit guilt or sign any waivers without first consulting an experienced SNAP violation attorney to protect your rights. 3
Retailer SNAP Compliance: A Proactive Approach
While we specialize in vigorous defense of SNAP violation charges, we also believe in taking a proactive compliance approach to help retailers avoid violations altogether.Our proactive SNAP compliance program involves:
1. Comprehensive Policy Development
We’ll work with you to develop robust, written SNAP compliance policies tailored to your business operations. These policies provide clear guidelines for:
- Identifying approved SNAP-eligible items
- Properly processing SNAP transactions
- Handling compliance issues like age verification
2. Staff Training Programs
Having policies means little without proper training. We’ll create training materials and programs to ensure your staff understands:
- SNAP rules and regulations
- Your internal compliance policies
- How to properly accept SNAP payments
- What to watch for in terms of potential violations
3. Ongoing Auditing and Monitoring
Compliance is an ongoing process, not a one-time effort. We’ll help you implement procedures for:
- Regular self-auditing of SNAP transactions
- Monitoring for any potential compliance gaps
- Addressing issues through additional training
- Updating policies as regulations evolve
4. Violation Response Protocols
Even with preventative measures, violations can still occur. We’ll have protocols in place for:
- Immediately investigating any potential violations
- Compiling documentation and records
- Rapidly responding within USDA deadlines
- Engaging our SNAP violation defense team
By taking this proactive approach, you demonstrate your commitment to program integrity while mitigating risks that could jeopardize your SNAP authorization.