Criminal Defense Lawyers

NYC Financial Aid Fraud Lawyers

Federal and state laws are in place that prevent individuals from making false claims, false promises, or inaccurately represents himself or herself for financial gain. One type of this fraudulent behavior is known as financial aid fraud. If an individual is accused of this charge, he or she faces criminal prosecution from United States attorneys at a federal level. In addition, those charged with financial aid fraud will also have to deal with New York prosecutors.

What is financial aid fraud? Financial aid fraud may take place in many forms. This could include making false promises to receive funds under the Title VI Federal Student Assistance Program, or it could include mailing false statements to receive funds from agencies such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

If an individual is charged with a financial aid offense, he or she should seek legal help. An experienced attorney can provide assistance and advice on how the defendant should respond to questions.

What are the Types of Financial Aid Fraud?
There are many different types of financial aid fraud that include:

FAFSA scams that involve individuals who apply to higher educational institution as students with fake high school diplomas or GED certificates. When an individual receives financial aid, the funds will be sent to the school that the student is enrolled in, and when there are remaining funds after tuition has been paid to the school, it will be sent to the student. In most cases, the student will drop out of school within a few months after receiving the financial aid award. In addition, when an individual intentionally misrepresents their income on the Free Applications for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), it is financial aid fraud.

An individual who manipulates test scores on any assessments and exams on Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Those who apply for financial aid by using another individual’s identity.

Those who are applying for disaster relief benefits from FEMA and use another individual’s identity.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

Load more

Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

It is important to note that these offenses (and other types of financial aid fraud) that involve federal funds could result in a federal charges for making false, fraudulent of untrue statements to a United States government agency as stated in 18 United States Code Section 287, which could lead to the following:

Conspiracy to defraud the United States according to 18 United States Code Section 371. If an individual is convicted of this sentence, then or she could face a five year prison sentence for attempting to commit fraud against the United States government (even if these attempts are unsuccessful).

Making false, fraudulent, or misleading statements as stated in 18 United States Code Section 1001. Those who are charged with this criminal offense will face a maximum prison sentence of five years for making false or fraudulent claims within the United States executive, judicial, or legislative branches.

If an individual is found guilty of mail fraud, he or she could face a 20 year prison sentence for using the United States Postal Service to carry out the scheme as stated in 18 Code Section 1341.

When an individual is convicted of wire fraud, he or she could face up to 20 years in prison for using money wiring services, such as Money Gram and Western Union, to commit fraud.

According to 18 United States Code Section 1028, an individual who obtained financial aid benefits by using an identity theft or misrepresentation of identity could face up to 15 years in prison.

In addition, submitting a FAFSA application with the intentional purpose of providing inaccurate information may be considered sufficient evidence to charge an individual with financial aid fraud. The consequences will vary based on certain factors, such as if an individual committed fraud electronically or through the mail.

What are the Consequence if an Individual is Charged with Financial Aid Fraud?
If an individual is charged with financial aid fraud, they may also face New York charges on financial aid fraud that includes:
Schemes to defraud according to Code Sections 190.60 and 65;
criminal impersonation as stated in Code Section 190.25 and 26;
Identity theft as stated in Code Sections 190.77 through 83.

An individual can be charged with these crimes if he or she filed a false FEMA application after a disaster, and charges will also apply for any other type of financial aid fraud that used another individuals identity.

Why You Need a Financial Aid Attorney
Financial aid fraud has significant penalties. The best way that an individual can ensure his or her rights are protected and understand the best course of action is to consult with a skilled, experienced criminal defense attorney. An attorney with financial aid fraud experience can help increase the chances of a successful outcome.