Insurance Fraud

Houston Insurance Fraud Attorney – Shahin Zamir

Nearly every Texan has some form of insurance, so it isn’t at all surprising that health insurance fraud is one of the more prevalent white-collar criminal acts. Perhaps it was just a misunderstanding, or maybe the claimant experienced a momentary lapse in judgment, but an accusation of fraud can make life absolutely miserable. Anyone who faces accusations of this nature should immediately speak with a knowledgeable Houston area insurance fraud lawyer.

Call today for a free consultation: 713-223-8900.

Defrauding an Insurance Company

Insurance claim fraud is defined in Section 35.02 of the Texas Penal Code. Providing inaccurate information related to a policy application or claim for the purpose of deceiving an insurer is a crime. The following acts are prohibited:

• Knowingly submitting or aiding the submission of a statement that contains fraudulent information
• Knowingly preparing or assisting in the preparation of a fraudulent statement related to an application
• Knowingly submitting or participating in the submission of a false statement that is intended to support a policy application
• Paying, soliciting, offering or receiving any benefit by furnishing services or tangible goods as part of a fraudulent claim

Unlawful insurance applications and claims often arise from the following types of insurance:

• Personal and commercial vehicle collision coverage
• Workers compensation
• Private, employer and government health care
• Property and liability insurance
• Life insurance

Fraudulent Claims Penalties

A conviction can result in a criminal record, incarceration, financial penalties and ineligibility for certain types of employment, professional licenses, security clearances and education programs. The specific punishment for a conviction will depend on the nature of the crime, the value of the claim, the criminal record of the defendant and whether the offense possessed the capacity to cause injury or death. The following penalties are possible for insurance fraud:

• Class C misdemeanor (Less than $50): A maximum fine of $500
• Class B misdemeanor ($50 or more but less than $500): Up to six months in jail and a maximum fine of $2,000
• Class A misdemeanor ($500 or more but less than $1,500): Up to one year in jail and a maximum fine of $4,000
• State jail felony ($1,500 or more but less than $20,000): Six months to two years in jail and a maximum fine of $10,000
• Third-degree felony ($20,000 or more but less than $100,000): Two to 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000
• Second-degree felony ($100,000 or more but less than $200,000): Two to 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000
• First-degree felony ($200,000 or more or risk of injury/death): Five years to life in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000

Meet With an Insurance Fraud Lawyer in Houston, TX

Speak with a Houston insurance fraud attorney to learn how to fight your charges.

To schedule a complimentary consultation with attorney Shahin Zamir, call 713-223-8900.