FEMA Fraud Criminal Defense Lawyers

When there is any kind of natural disaster, FEMA often assists the people who are impacted until they are able to get back on their feet. FEMA workers help to provide shelter, food, clothing, and other basic necessities that are not available after a disaster. Financial assistance is also available, but there is an application process that people have to complete if they believe that they are eligible for the assistance.

The Problem of FEMA Fraud

There are numerous cases of fraud after FEMA workers step in to offer help. Many people file claims that aren’t true in order to get money and other assistance from FEMA. Workers understand that sifting through false reports does take time away from the people which truly need help. Which is why the government is cracking down on applications that are turned in while still trying to ensure that the people who truly need help receive what FEMA offers. Money from taxpayers supports FEMA. And if fraud continues in the system, then it begins to impact the everyday citizens who are only trying to do their part and pay their taxes.

Unfortunately, there are numerous types of FEMA fraud that one must consider instead of just falsifying documents in order to obtain assistance. If you have been charged with fraud, then you need to seek the assistance of an attorney as soon as possible as there could have been something innocently left off of your application or an error when processing the paperwork which is of no fault of your own. However, if you know that you falsified information on the application, then you will likely be charged and still need the assistance of an attorney that can defend your case in court.

DEFENSE TEAM SPOTLIGHT

Todd Spodek

Lead Attorney & Founder

Featured on Netflix's "Inventing Anna," Todd Spodek brings decades of high-stakes criminal defense experience. His aggressive approach has secured dismissals and acquittals in cases others deemed unwinnable.

NY Bar Admitted Multi-State Licensed Federal Courts

Meet the Full Team

Legal Scenario: What Would You Do?

Scenario

After a hurricane damaged your home, you submitted a FEMA assistance application listing repairs that were largely covered by your homeowner's insurance, resulting in a $28,000 duplicate payment. Federal investigators are now contacting you about the overlapping claims and accusing you of intentionally misrepresenting your losses.

Can I really face federal criminal charges for receiving FEMA disaster assistance that overlapped with my insurance payout?

Attorney's Answer

Yes, FEMA fraud is prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 1040, which specifically targets fraud in connection with major disaster or emergency benefits and carries penalties of up to 30 years in prison when the fraud exceeds $1,000. Prosecutors must prove you knowingly made false statements or concealed information to obtain benefits you were not entitled to, so demonstrating that the overlap was an honest mistake or misunderstanding of the application process can be a strong defense. An experienced attorney can challenge the government's evidence of intent, negotiate with the FEMA Office of Inspector General during the investigation phase, and potentially resolve the matter before formal charges are filed. Early legal intervention is critical because cooperating strategically with investigators — rather than speaking without counsel — can significantly affect whether prosecutors pursue criminal charges or seek civil recovery instead.

This is general information only. Contact us for advice specific to your situation.

Common Types of FEMA Fraud

Identity Theft and Information Scams