Criminal Defense Lawyers

NYC Food Stamp Fraud Attorneys

Are you facing allegations of food stamp fraud? The State of New York commonly investigates recipients to ensure compliance. If they see anything that does not line up with your application, then the compliance department will demand proof. If you cannot provide adequate documentation, then charges will be filed against you for food stamp fraud.

Individuals are not the only ones affected by these laws. A grocery or convenience store owner that accepts state benefits can also fall under scrutiny. Improperly taking food stamp benefits can be a felony and a challenge to defend. An allegation of fraud can affect your livelihood. Families can lose the only method they have to feed their family and stores risk losing shoppers. Thankfully, there is help available.

What Is Food Stamp Fraud?

New York’s welfare fraud laws prohibit any user of a public benefit card to commit a crime in association with benefits. The regulations governing this can be found under sections 158.00-158.50. Whether the offense will be punished as a misdemeanor or a felony depends on the amount of money involved. If the funds are more than one million dollars, then the state will classify it as a class B felony. Most individual cases do not reach those levels, but when dealing with a convenience store, it can easily exceed the misdemeanor thresholds.

What does the state consider food stamp fraud? Well, anyone that makes a false claim on their application concerning their income or finances is guilty. Also, using someone else’s identity to apply for benefits is illegal. Using a food stamp card that belongs to someone else is also considered a criminal act. The state may choose to press larceny charges along with fraud in this instance.

The food stamp program is a way to help those who need assistance meeting their nutritional needs. If you trade your food stamps for other services or food for another family, then the state considers this to be fraudulent. Selling food stamps or using them as a bargaining tool is deceitful and is punishable by law.

Both Business and Individuals Are Often Investigated

Food stamp fraud allegations are not just for individuals. Businesses can also find themselves facing criminal repercussions. If the charges are found to be truthful, then the company will lose their ability to accept SNAP benefits. The livelihood of the business, as well as the customers that depend on this store, can be devastated.

Businesses that allow their customers to use SNAP benefits to buy hot, prepared foods can face charges. They cannot accept transferred foods stamps from one part to the next. Additionally, they cannot exchange cash for the value of the benefits either.

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

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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.

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

Helping Businesses Fight Back

A business owner must fight back to protect their image and store. You have a chance by making a response to the inquiry about the use. They need proof and a clarification of the allegations. You may have a guiltless account of what occurred. You can work your way through the courts, all the way to the civil level, to find resolve.

When it comes to preparing a response for the agency, an attorney can help. Whether it is paperwork or a formal hearing on your case, a well-trained lawyer can present the facts and help you negotiate a resolution. You may not lose your privileges to accept food stamps.

Helping Individuals Clear Their Name

Defending the allegations against food stamp fraud can be a difficult feat. The police and state lawyers may not understand what happened in your case. A lawyer can get them the evidence they need as well as help them see the truth of the issue. In many cases, this is all that is needed to resolve the matter.

Some people cheat the system, but they do not realize that they have committed a crime. Food stamp fraud can be accidental too. Did the law violate your rights to investigate this matter? If your lawyer finds that is the case, then they can file a motion to suppress any evidence obtained.

Hiring A Food Stamp Attorney

If you do not want to take your case to trial, then you can pursue a plea resolution to end the claim. Sometimes, even if there is a compelling case, the state will not want to mess with a trial. Your lawyer may be able to negotiate a resolution that will allow you to keep your benefits and clear your name. A food stamp fraud attorney can help you with the charges against you and come up with a plan to put this issue behind you.