We live in tough times with a rough economy.  In times of need, there are some social safety net programs that provide assistance to those in need. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF, which is welfare in its current incarnation), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and Medicaid programs exist to help those with low income and limited resources to make ends meet.  However, these programs also have a high potential of abuse for those looking to make money which they are not entitled to.  In order to combat this, the Commonwealth and the federal government have enacted strict rules and regulations to govern these programs.

Title 62 P.S. § 481 False Statements makes it a criminal offense to make a false statement or misrepresentation, or to fail to disclose a material fact in the attempt to secure cash assistance or federal food stamps.  The severity of the offense is dependent upon the monetary amount of assistance or food stamps acquired fraudulently. This can range anywhere from a Misdemeanor three up to a felony of the third degree for amounts above $3,000!  

In addition to the criminal penalties for making false statements to obtain cash assistance or food stamps, people who are found guilty of one of these offenses are rendered ineligible for further assistance for a period of time. For the first offense they will be ineligible for a period of six months. For a second offense they will be ineligible for a period of twelve months. A third conviction results in a permanent ban from receiving assistance. This is devastating for a person who is in dire need of assistance.

If you have been charged with making false statements to obtain assistance, you may think that an attorney is beyond your ability to afford. However, considering the severity of the potential charges,, you can’t afford not to have an attorney. Attorney Frank Walker offers affordable rates, and is available for initial consultations to see if he is the attorney that is right for you. With years of experience in defending people charged with crimes in Pennsylvania and West Virginia, he has the experience and affordable rates to be the perfect fit for you.  Call now to set up an appointment. 

Attorney Frank Walker of Frank Walker Law is a National Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyer and Personal Injury Attorney with offices in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and Morgantown West Virginia. Attorney Walker is also a member of the National College for DUI Defense, Super Lawyer and qualified as a Pennsylvania Death Penalty Defense Attorney.

If you or someone you love are facing criminal charges or seriously injured in an accident in WV or PA, contact Attorney Frank Walker immediately at 412-532-6805, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for aggressive and experienced Criminal Defense or Representation following a serious accident or injury.