Madison County Fraud Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Fraud charges in Madison County, New York, are serious white collar crimes prosecuted under New York Penal Law Article 155 (Larceny) and Article 190 (Fraud). A conviction can mean prison, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused of fraud.
New York Fraud Laws and Penalties
Fraud in New York is not a single crime but a category covering many acts involving deception for financial gain. Common charges include Scheme to Defraud (Penal Law § 190.60), Identity Theft (Penal Law § 190.78), and various degrees of Larceny by false pretenses. The classification and penalties depend on the value involved and the method used.
Last verified: April 2026 | Madison County Criminal Court | New York State Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has a background in accounting and information systems, which provides a distinct advantage in dissecting complex financial evidence in fraud cases.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of New York’s fraud statutes, visit the official New York Penal Law (PEN). For Madison County court procedures and information, refer to the Madison County Courts website.
Facing Fraud Charges in Madison County
Fraud investigations often begin with a subpoena or search warrant executed by agencies like the New York State Police or the District Attorney’s office. In Madison County, misdemeanor fraud cases are heard in Madison County Criminal Court, while felonies are indicted and tried in Madison County Supreme Court. New York’s bail reform laws mean many non-violent fraud defendants may be released without cash bail, but the long-term consequences of a conviction are severe.
- Initial Consultation: Contact our fraud lawyer Madison County team immediately after learning of an investigation or charge.
- Evidence Review: We meticulously analyze all financial records, communications, and prosecution evidence to identify weaknesses.
- Strategic Defense: We develop a defense strategy, which may involve challenging the intent to defraud, the valuation of loss, or procedural errors.
- Court Representation: We represent you at all hearings, from arraignment through potential trial, in the appropriate Madison County court.
Potential Penalties for Fraud Convictions
In Madison County, fraud penalties range from a violation with up to 15 days in jail for minor offenses to a Class B felony carrying up to 25 years in prison for large-scale schemes.
| Offense (Examples) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | Restitution, criminal record |
| Grand Larceny 4th ($1,000-$3,000) | Class E Felony | 1-4 years | Up to $5,000 or double gain | Restitution, felony record |
| Scheme to Defraud 1st | Class E Felony | 1-4 years | Up to $5,000 or double gain | Restitution, felony record |
| Identity Theft 2nd | Class E Felony | 1-4 years | Up to $5,000 or double gain | Restitution, felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Fraud Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our combined legal experience exceeds 120 years. We have handled over firm-wide 4,739 cases with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our founder, Mr. Sris, has a background in accounting and information systems, providing a unique skill set for analyzing the complex financial transactions at the heart of fraud cases. This makes our firm a strong choice for a white collar crime defense lawyer Madison County.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
In Madison County, our firm has a record of 45 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our approach is to scrutinize every detail of the prosecution’s case, from the initial investigation methods to the forensic accounting, to protect your rights and future.
Contact Our Madison County Fraud Defense Team
If you need a fraud charge defense lawyer Madison County, our team is ready to help. Our New York location serves clients throughout Madison County, including Wampsville, Oneida, Canastota, Cazenovia, and Hamilton.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Fraud Defense FAQs for Madison County, NY
What is the most common type of fraud charge in Madison County?
Petit Larceny (theft under $1,000) and Scheme to Defraud are among the most common. Charges often arise from allegations of bad checks, credit card fraud, or deceptive business practices.
Can I go to jail for a first-time fraud offense?
It depends on the degree of the charge. A first-time Class A misdemeanor fraud charge carries a possible jail sentence of up to one year. However, for eligible first offenses, an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) may be available, which results in dismissal after a period of good behavior.
What is the difference between fraud and larceny in New York?
Larceny involves taking property without permission. Fraud (often charged as “larceny by false promise” or “scheme to defraud”) specifically involves using deception or false statements to obtain property, services, or a financial advantage. The legal definitions are detailed in New York Penal Law Articles 155 and 190.
Do I need a lawyer if I am only under investigation for fraud?
Yes. Consulting a fraud lawyer Madison County before any charges are filed is critical. An attorney can advise you during interactions with law enforcement, help protect your rights, and potentially influence whether the District Attorney’s office decides to pursue charges.
What defenses are available against fraud charges?
Common defenses include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, insufficient evidence of loss, entrapment, or challenging the valuation of the alleged loss. A skilled white collar crime defense lawyer Madison County will analyze all evidence to identify the strongest defense strategy for your situation.
For more information, see our New York Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like New York County (Manhattan) and with related issues such as Business Law in Madison County.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for the most current legal guidance regarding fraud charges.