
Being accused of obtaining services dishonestly can make you feel anxious and uncertain. Indeed, you may be worried about the potential for imprisonment, confused about what exactly constitutes obtaining services dishonestly in legal terms, and concerned about how the courts will view your case. This article will explain what obtaining services dishonestly involves, the sentencing options available to courts, and the factors that might influence whether you could receive a suspended sentence rather than immediate custody.
Obtaining services dishonestly is an offence under Section 11 of the Fraud Act 2006. It occurs when someone dishonestly obtains services for which payment is required, with intent to avoid payment in whole or in part, and where payment is required on or before the provision of the service or under an express or implied agreement.
The key elements that prosecutors must prove include dishonesty, obtaining services for which payment is required, intent to avoid payment (either completely or partially), and that payment was required either before the service was provided or under some form of agreement. Unlike other fraud offences, this does not require deception or false representation, but focuses on the dishonest intent to avoid payment.
The offence can also include more complex scenarios such as booking services with false details and no intention to pay, using someone else’s account or membership to access paid services, or manipulating payment systems to avoid charges.
Note that the offence requires dishonest intent to avoid payment. Genuine inability to pay due to unexpected circumstances, honest mistakes about payment requirements, or disputes about the quality of services would not constitute this offence if there was no dishonest intent.
Obtaining services dishonestly can be tried in either the Magistrates’ Court or the Crown Court, depending on the value involved and other factors. The maximum sentence is 5 years imprisonment, which is lower than some other fraud offences but still reflects the seriousness with which courts treat dishonest behaviour.
Courts have various other sentencing options available, including community orders, suspended sentences, fines, and immediate custody. For less serious cases involving smaller amounts, first-time offenders, or single incidents, courts often consider community-based sentences such as community service, unpaid work requirements, supervision orders, or fines. More serious cases involving substantial amounts, repeated offending, sophisticated methods to avoid payment, or significant impact on businesses are more likely to result in immediate prison sentences.
Courts also consider the broader context, recognising that some cases may involve underlying issues such as financial difficulties, mental health problems, or addiction that contributed to the offending behaviour.
A suspended sentence does not take effect immediately. Rather, the sentence is put off, held, or “suspended” for a specified period, usually between six months and two years. If you successfully complete the suspension period without committing any further offences or breaching the conditions, the prison sentence will never be served. However, if you commit another offence or breach the conditions during the suspension period, you will likely be required to serve the original suspended sentence in addition to any penalty for the new offence.
Suspended sentences often come with conditions such as unpaid work, supervision by probation services, attendance at rehabilitation programmes, or restrictions on your activities.
Obtaining services dishonestly can result in a suspended sentence. Considerations that might favour a suspended sentence include being a first-time offender, showing genuine remorse and taking responsibility for your actions, having strong personal circumstances such as employment or family responsibilities, demonstrating that you are unlikely to reoffend, and making efforts to compensate service providers for losses incurred. Conversely, factors that make a suspended sentence less likely include previous convictions for dishonesty offences, repeated offending involving multiple service providers, substantial amounts involved, sophisticated methods to avoid detection or payment, or showing no remorse for your actions.
Each case is assessed individually, and the court will balance the seriousness of the offence against your personal circumstances and prospects for rehabilitation.
Courts consider multiple factors when deciding whether to impose a suspended sentence for obtaining services dishonestly:
Not all offences result in prison sentences. There is usually an extensive balancing exercise completed by the court beforehand.
Situations that typically warrant immediate prison sentences include those involving substantial amounts, repeated offending affecting multiple service providers, sophisticated methods to avoid payment or detection, or where you have previous convictions for similar offences.
Less serious cases that might avoid immediate prison include first-time offenders involved in single incidents or modest amounts, cases where you were acting under significant personal pressure or financial crisis, or where there are exceptional personal circumstances.
Even repeat offenders may receive suspended sentences in exceptional circumstances, particularly where there is evidence of genuine efforts to address underlying problems.
There are numerous steps you can take to improve your situation going forward:
If you’re facing charges related to obtaining services dishonestly, it’s crucial to have the right legal team on your side. At Stuart Miller Solicitors, we have a strong track record in defending clients against fraud and dishonesty offences. We know the stakes are high, and we’re committed to protecting your rights, your reputation, and your future. Our experienced solicitors will take the time to understand your situation, explain your options clearly, and build the strongest possible defence on your behalf. Get in touch today for a free, confidential consultation.
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