Texas SNAP Violation Attorneys.
FNS retailer cases are federal - the same charge letters, deadlines, and appeal rights apply in every state. Here is how the process works, and where counsel changes the outcome.
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While most people know what food stamps are, many are not familiar with the terms EBT or SNAP. However, they are essentially one and the same, with EBT cards taking the place of food stamps in the 1990's. However, as with many government programs, SNAP can be prone to fraud or theft. If you are the owner of a grocery store, this is something you should be wary of, since violations could lead to financial disaster for you and your business. If you happen to receive a letter from the USDA alleging SNAP violations occurred at your place of business, don't hesitate to contact a SNAP violation lawyer to gain a better understanding of the allegations, as well as what legal remedies are at your disposal.
The Purpose of SNAP
Since consumers enrolled in SNAP are provided an EBT debit card to be used for food purchases each month, it plays a vital role in helping those in need get the necessary food for them and their family. However, EBT cards are to be used for food purchases only, and not for general usage. Because of this, some consumers and grocers engage in fraudulent cash back practices. If you as a retailer receive a USDA letter stating this happened at your store, you will only have 10 days to respond to the allegations. Since time will be of the essence in these matters, contacting a SNAP violation lawyer within a day or so will be vital to defending yourself against the allegations.
SNAP Violations
Along with fraudulent cash back services, there are other types of SNAP violations. These can include:
--Submitting false information on your application to accept EBT payments
--Accepting SNAP benefits from those who are not authorized to use them
--Accepting SNAP benefits in exchange for tobacco or alcohol
--Redeeming more EBT benefits than the amount of food which was actually sold
--Participating in the fraudulent acceptance or theft of EBT benefits
No matter which of these violations the USDA alleges took place at your store, they should be taken very seriously. Even if you don't believe the violations occurred, don't just put the letter aside and not respond. If you do so, the USDA will issue a ruling regardless of whether you respond or not. By not consulting a lawyer, you will set yourself and your business up for extreme penalties that may force you out of business.
Defending Against SNAP Violations
Once you speak with a SNAP violations lawyer, you can gain peace of mind in a number of ways. To begin with, you will have a better understanding of the violations and the possible consequences that could result. In addition to this, your lawyer will take care of any future communication with the USDA, and will begin to gather evidence needed to prove you committed no wrongdoing. And even if your initial defense is denied, you will be given another 10 days to file an appeal. Once again, your lawyer will gather evidence and draft a response to the USDA. If this appeal is denied, your attorney will then choose to file a Judicial Review, which will be heard in federal court. By doing so, your attorney will then be able to file motions, do discovery, and prepare for trial. Under no circumstances should you ever choose to go it alone in these cases, since they are very complex and the possible penalties are quite severe. Along with fines that could run into many thousands of dollars, the USDA could also decide to disqualify your business from accepting EBT payments for as long as five years, which could severely hamper your store's ability to stay in business.
Hire an Attorney
No matter how strongly you feel you are innocent in these cases and thus don't need legal representation, schedule a consultation with an experienced and knowledgeable SNAP violation lawyer as soon as possible. By hiring an attorney who understands these cases and is not afraid to take on the federal government, you will have a much better chance of success. So rather than sit back and do nothing or simply accept an USDA ruling, let an experienced SNAP violation lawyer handle the fight for you.
Facing a SNAP charge letter or disqualification? Start with our full guide: USDA SNAP Violation Lawyers for Retail Stores, or call 212-300-5196 for an attorney, 24/7.
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Spodek Law Group has defended people and businesses against the federal government since 1976. SNAP retailer matters are handled the way the firm handles every federal case: the evidence gets read before anything is filed, deadlines get calendared on day one, and clients deal with counsel - not a call center.
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212 300 5196