Fraud by false representation is a serious criminal offence with severe penalties for those finding themselves on the wrong side of the law. If you or someone you care about is facing a charge for fraud by false representation or is already being prosecuted for such for the first time, getting as much information about the offence and what happens for first time offenders is imperative. Not only is this wise from a defence standpoint, but it can be very reassuring to have familiarity with the process, too. In this article, we outline the offence of fraud by false representation and answer some of the most common questions we get about what happens when you are a first time offender found guilty of this offence.
Fraud by false representation is an offence under the Fraud Act 2006. It is one of the primary ways in which fraud can be committed, according to the Act, and thus is a common offence in England and Wales.
Under Section 2 of the Fraud Act 2006, a person is in breach of the law where they dishonestly make a false representation, and intend, by making the representation, to make a gain for themselves or another, or to cause loss to another or to expose another to a risk of loss.
For a prosecution to secure a conviction for fraud by false representation, the following elements must be proven:
The offence of fraud by false representation can attract significant penalties, including imprisonment and fines, and can be tried either summarily (in the Magistrates’ Court) or on indictment (in the Crown Court). The specific penalties can vary depending on the severity of the fraud (determined by the level of culpability of the offender and the harm caused) and the broader circumstances of the case.
Examples of this offence include:
If you are suspected of committing fraud by false representation in the UK, you are likely to face investigation and possible prosecution under the Fraud Act 2006. As mentioned, fraud by false representation is covered by Section 2 of the Act.
Here’s a general outline of what could happen if you are suspected of committing fraud by false representation:
Note that this is a general overview of the investigation and prosecution process, and the exact process can vary depending on the precise circumstances of the case. If you are facing such an accusation, it is crucial to seek advice from an experienced legal professional who can guide you based on your specific situation.
Fraud by false representation is a triable either way offence that carries a maximum of ten years’ imprisonment.
The judge will look at numerous factors related to the culpability (which can be understood as blameworthiness or guiltiness) of the offender and the level of harm caused by the offence. In considering these factors, he or she will make a fair conclusion as to which sentence should be handed down.
Examples of aggravating factors that could lead to a harsher sentence include: the offence being carried out as part of a broader organised crime scheme or gang activity; this being a repeat offence; other crimes being committed alongside the offence; and there being a severe impact on the victims.
Mitigating factors that reduce a sentence, on the other hand, include this offence being a first time offence; the offender showing remorse or an attempt to make good the harm caused; good character or exemplary conduct elsewhere; young age of the offender or otherwise lack of maturity; and the act originally being legitimate.
Note that a confiscation order may be made by the Crown Court under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 if it is determined that the offender is still in possession of items obtained through the fraud.
As frustrating as this sounds, it can be very difficult to predict whether someone will go to prison for their first offence of fraud by false representation. The offence is, after all, a very serious one and only in exceptional circumstances will a judge consider suspending a sentence for someone that has been proven guilty of the offence.
That said, one thing that first time offenders do have on their side is the very fact that this is their first offence. The crime being a first offence is considered a mitigating factor in almost all cases, which means that whatever the judge was going to sentence you under the guidelines, the fact that it is a first time offence will help reduce that sentence, perhaps by years or months if other circumstances support such a conclusion.
The best way to understand whether a first offence of fraud by false representation will lead to a prison sentence is to ask an experienced criminal defence solicitor for advice on how similar cases are handled, and what the strength of your defence and other mitigating factors may be.
If you or someone you care about is facing a charge or indeed a trial for fraud by false representation, it is understandable that you should have numerous concerns and questions about what happens next. In every case, getting expert legal advice early on can make all the difference. For first time offenders, we may even be able to get the case dropped before it reaches a trial. For a free, no obligation, and friendly consultation, get in touch with the team at Stuart Miller Solicitors today.
Responsive
A legal expert will consult you within 24 hours of making an enquiry.
Empathetic
We will always treat you with trust, understanding and respect.
Specialised
Your case will be handled by an expert who specialises in your type of offence.
Proactive
We will take early action to end proceedings as soon as it is practically and legally possible to do so.
Engaged
You will be kept updated on your case at all times. We will provide a named contact available to answer your questions.
Caring
We understand this is a difficult and stressful time for you and your family. Our team will support you every step of the way.
Tenacious
We will never give up on your case. We fight tirelessly to get you the best possible outcome.