Criminal Defense Lawyers

New York Snap Violation Lawyers

New York SNAP Violation Lawyers: Protecting Your Grocery Store

The Stakes Are High

So, what do you do if you get hit with one of these things? A SNAP violation notice from the USDA can feel like a punch in the gut. Your entire business – the grocery store you’ve poured your blood, sweat, and tears into – is suddenly at risk.But, take a deep breath. You have options. And we’re here to help you understand them.

What is SNAP?

Let’s start with the basics. SNAP stands for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. It’s a federal program that provides low-income families with financial assistance to purchase food.Instead of old-school food stamps, SNAP uses an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, kind of like a debit card. Customers can use their EBT cards at authorized retailers like your grocery store.

What Constitutes a SNAP Violation?

Okay, now for the tricky part – what exactly counts as a SNAP violation? The rules can get pretty nitpicky, but here are some common examples:

Trafficking SNAP Benefits

This is a big one. Trafficking means fraudulently exchanging SNAP benefits for cash or other non-food items. For instance, if a cashier rings up a fake grocery purchase but gives the customer cash instead of food, that’s trafficking.

Selling Ineligible Items

SNAP benefits can only be used for eligible food items. If you knowingly allow customers to purchase things like alcohol, cigarettes, or hot foods with their EBT cards, that’s a violation. 1

Giving Cash Change

When a SNAP customer makes a purchase, you can’t give them cash as change from their EBT card balance. That’s considered trafficking too. 2

Clerical Errors

Even innocent paperwork mistakes on your SNAP retailer application or reports can potentially trigger a violation notice. The USDA doesn‘t mess around. 3The list goes on, but you get the idea – the rules are strict, and any misstep can have serious consequences for your business.

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.

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

The Consequences Could Be Devastating

If the USDA finds you committed a SNAP violation, they can impose harsh penalties, including:

• Temporary disqualification from SNAP for 6 months to 5 years
• Permanent disqualification (say goodbye to all those EBT sales)
• Huge fines of up to $100,000 per violation in extreme cases 4

Losing your SNAP authorization is a major blow. For many grocery stores, EBT customers make up a huge portion of their business. Getting disqualified means losing a massive revenue stream, maybe even closing up shop for good.

You Need to Fight Back – Here’s How

Okay, enough with the scary stuff. The good news is, you have rights. And with the right New York SNAP violation lawyer in your corner, you can fight these charges and protect your business.

Step 1) Respond Immediately

You only have 10 days from the date on that USDA violation letter to respond. Don’t miss this crucial window. 5An experienced SNAP attorney can quickly review the allegations and evidence against you. They‘ll help you craft a strong, comprehensive response laying out your defense.

Step 2) Request a Hearing

If the USDA doesn’t drop the case after your response, you have the right to an administrative hearing. This is your chance to contest the charges, present evidence, examine witnesses – basically plead your case before an impartial judge. 6Having a skilled litigator who understands SNAP regulations inside and out can make all the difference at this hearing. They know how to poke holes in the government‘s arguments and position you for the best possible outcome.

Step 3) Appeal if Needed

If things don’t go your way at the hearing, you can appeal the decision to the federal courts. But again, you’ll want a SNAP violation lawyer who has been through this process before and knows how to navigate the appeals system effectively. 7

Step 4) Implement Compliance Measures

Even if you successfully beat the charges this time, your lawyer can work with you to implement rigorous SNAP compliance policies and training. This will help avoid future violations and keep your grocery store operating smoothly for years to come.

Why Hire Spodek Law Group?

There’s one reason you’re on this website: you’re looking for an elite criminal defense law firm. A firm with a proven track record of success. A firm that will leave no stone unturned to protect your business and your future.At Spodek Law Group, SNAP violation defense is our specialty. We‘ve handled hundreds of cases nationwide, from mom-and-pop stores to major retail chains. Our founder, Todd Spodek, is a nationally recognized SNAP violation attorney with a deep understanding of this area of law.But we‘re not just legal experts. We’re passionate advocates for small business owners like you, fighting tirelessly to protect your rights and livelihood.When you hire us, you get:

• A personalized approach tailored to your unique situation
• Meticulous analysis of evidence to identify weaknesses in the case against you
• Creative defense strategies drawing on our extensive SNAP knowledge
• Aggressive representation at hearings, appeals, and settlement negotiations
• Proactive compliance guidance to prevent future violations

Most law firms implement a cookie cutter strategy in order to fight your case, and save their own time. They don‘t look carefully at your situation – they simply want to move on to the next case.At Spodek Law Group, we leave no stone unturned. We do everything possible to win. Everything we do is focused on getting you results.We understand the difficult and challenges of going through a case. If you‘re accused of a crime, schedule a consultation with our criminal attorneys today.