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720-445-9887Like most other white-collar crimes, unemployment fraud claims are often subject to lengthy investigations before a person is actually indicted on a charge or actually charged. Should you find yourself subject to any such investigation, it’s important you get in touch with an unemployment fraud lawyer experienced in this practice area to help you with your case.
Unemployment fraud has become an increasingly high-profile issue in recent years—especially following the surge in benefit claims during the COVID-19 pandemic. Both individuals and employers can find themselves under investigation by state or federal agencies for unemployment-related fraud, whether intentionally or due to honest mistakes.
It’s critical to understand the two primary forms of unemployment fraud: individual claimant fraud and employer fraud.
These are further defined as:
This occurs when an individual knowingly provides false or misleading information to receive unemployment benefits. Common examples include failing to report income while collecting benefits, lying about job search efforts, or continuing to file after returning to work. Even if you received benefits you didn’t believe were fraudulent, you may still be investigated. A Denver unemployment fraud attorney can help protect your rights and defend your case early in the process.
This involves actions by employers to avoid paying into the unemployment insurance system, such as misclassifying employees as independent contractors, underreporting payroll, or failing to pay unemployment insurance taxes. These cases may be pursued civilly or criminally, depending on the extent of the fraud.
Contact the Law Office of Kevin Cahill if you are being investigated or have been charged with unemployment fraud. Call 720-445-9887 today for a free consultation.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, billions of dollars are lost each year due to fraudulent unemployment claims. States like Colorado have strengthened enforcement tools to identify, track, and prosecute fraud. Investigations are often launched based on employer reports, data discrepancies, or whistleblower tips.
Many cases start as audits or document requests—but they can quickly escalate to criminal charges if not handled properly. Once an overpayment or misrepresentation is suspected, the state may demand repayment, assess penalties, and refer the matter for prosecution.
Under C.R.S. 8-81-101 and 8-81-102, unemployment insurance fraud in Colorado may be charged as a Class 2 misdemeanor up to a Class 5 felony, depending on the amount of money involved.
If you’ve received a notice regarding an audit, overpayment, or investigation into your unemployment claims, do not ignore it. Even if you believe it was a misunderstanding, providing statements or documents without legal counsel could put you at greater risk.
Investigators are trained to build cases based on financial records, employment data, and benefit histories. A Denver unemployment fraud lawyer can step in immediately to assess the situation, communicate on your behalf, and work to reduce or eliminate potential penalties.
Facing an investigation or charge of unemployment fraud can be overwhelming—but you’re not alone. Whether you’ve already been contacted or suspect you may be under review, early legal representation can make all the difference in your case.
Contact the Law Offices of Kevin Cahill today to speak with an experienced unemployment fraud defense attorney who will fight to protect your rights.
Call 720-445-9887 for a free and confidential consultation.
Denver Defense Lawyer Kevin Cahill never assumes that your case is a lost cause. He is a confident and fearless litigator who refuses to back down when he is fighting to protect the rights of his clients. Regardless of whether you are facing a felony or a misdemeanor, it is vital that you take the charges seriously and seek out legal representation as soon as possible so you can start building your defense.