REPRESENTING CLIENTS IN ATLANTA, AUGUSTA, COLUMBUS, MACON, SAVANNAH, GAINESVILLE, LAWRENCEVILLE, DECATUR, JONESBORO & THROUGHOUT GEORGIA
When you enter into a contract with another party, it is reasonable to expect that they will honor it. When they fail to honor their end of the bargain – or when they intentionally engage in deceitful or duplicitous actions designed to maximize their gain – you may be entitled to legal recourse. The best way to find out is through a private and free case review with a practiced business and commercial fraud lawyer.
The business law attorneys at Lourie, Chance, Forlines, Carter & King have abundant experience representing plaintiffs who have suffered damages through business or commercial fraud. We welcome inquiries from individuals or businesses in need of legal counsel and advocacy related to fraud of any variety.
Call Lourie, Chance, Forlines, Carter & King at 404-760-7400 to schedule your complimentary case review today. We serve victims of business fraud throughout Georgia from our two Atlanta locations.
TYPES OF FRAUD
Our business and commercial fraud attorneys can assist with:
- Auto Fraud. This includes deceptive or dishonest advertising practices, insincere negotiations, withheld information, or any other deceitful or unlawful action designed to defraud the consumer
- Employment Fraud. This includes misleading job seekers through deceitful practices that promise higher wages or better hours, oftentimes in exchange for money
- Healthcare Fraud. This can include health insurance and Medicaid fraud, prescription drug fraud, and medical fraud. These are often whistleblower cases
- Real Estate Fraud. This includes failure to disclose property damage, falsifying documents, and any other attempt to defraud a buyer
Business fraud, which is also known as corporate fraud, can include many different types of illegal, unethical, and improper behavior. It occurs whenever a company is intentionally dishonest for the purpose of financial gain.
WHAT IS THE STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS ON FRAUD?
In the state of Georgia, you have two years to take legal action after suffering damages from fraud. Waiting to file a claim may, however, complicate your case. It is always a good idea to consult with an attorney as soon as possible following fraud. Swift action can help to reduce complications and may assist with the success of your claim.
WHO CAN FILE A FRAUD CASE CLAIM?
Anyone who has been the victim of fraud can file a claim. Like personal injury claims, these seek damages through compensation, but do not involve criminal punishment. Victims of fraud are entitled to seek damages through legal action even in cases where no criminal charges are filed.
WHAT COMPENSATION CAN A VICTIM OF FRAUD RECEIVE?
Victims of fraud can seek damages for all financial losses. These are known as special damages. General damages, such as emotional stress and suffering, may be sought in these cases as well.
Punitive damages, also known as vindictive damages, are designed to punish the defendant for shockingly poor behavior. These are very uncommon in fraud cases.
In the state of Georgia, punitive damages are only awarded in cases where it has been established “by clear and convincing evidence that the defendant’s actions showed willful misconduct, malice, fraud, wantonness, oppression, or that entire want of care which would raise the presumption of conscious indifference to consequences.”
Punitive damages are capped at $250,000 in Georgia.
WHAT KIND OF EVIDENCE IS NEEDED TO FILE A BUSINESS OR COMMERCIAL FRAUD CLAIM?
To establish that fraud has taken place, it must be proven that a misrepresentation or complete falsity has resulted in damages. Whether this act is intentional or a result of ignorance is immaterial if the action results in damages to someone else.
Establishing that fraud has occurred can be extremely difficult. It is always a good idea to talk to an experienced fraud attorney before taking any action to make sure you fully understand your options and your rights.
HOW LONG DOES A BUSINESS OR COMMERCIAL FRAUD CASE TAKE?
Cases that settle during mediation or pre-trial may take six to twelve months to resolve. Those that go to trial can take much longer.
Each case is unique. The best way to determine how long your case may take is through a consultation with an experienced attorney. Meeting with one of our lawyers for a confidential case review is free of both cost and obligation. If you believe you have cause to file suit, use the contact form on this page or get in touch today to schedule a consultation and learn more.
Examples of Business Fraud
Corporate fraud cases often revolve around breach of contract. They may also include fraudulent misrepresentation or concealment, breach of warranty, and even libel and injurious falsehoods. Fraud can be obvious or subtle. It can be singular or systemic. Every example of it, however, must be stopped. If you suspect you have been defrauded, you are entitled to speak with an attorney – free of charge and obligation – to learn if you have cause to file suit. Contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation and learn how we can help.
Elements of fraud include the following:
- False representation of a material fact in connection with a contract or transaction
- Confirmed knowledge by the person committing fraud of the falsehood
- Reckless disregard
- Commission of fraud in order to induce the other party to do something
- Action by the plaintiff in response to misrepresentation
- Actual loss by the plaintiff as a result of the fraud
In a successful legal claim of fraud, the wronged party will recover compensation equal to the loss. In some cases, punitive damages will be awarded as well.
Punitive damages are typically reserved for cases that are particularly egregious. During your free consultation, we will listen to your entire story in order to provide you with honest information about your best path forward, inducing the types of damages we may seek in your case. These can vary depending on the nature of the claim and the extent of duplicity. We are here to stand by your side and fight for your rights until your case is resolved.
WHY CHOOSE Lourie, Chance, Forlines, Carter & King
Lourie, Chance, Forlines, Carter & King has a long and impressive history of helping victims of business and commercial fraud get justice. Our experienced Atlanta business attorneys have the knowledge and dedication necessary to win these cases, and the resources necessary to help families get back on their feet following fraud.
We have represented whistleblowers, individuals, and businesses. We are here to help you.
CALL OUR ATLANTA ATTORNEYS FOR YOUR BUSINESS & COMMERCIAL FRAUD CASE!
To schedule a free consultation at one of the Atlanta offices of Lourie, Chance, Forlines, Carter & King, please call 404-760-7400. Or, you can fill out the form on this page or your contact page for your one-on-one appointmnet with our team. We serve men and women living throughout Georgia, including Savannah, Columbus, Macon, Decatur, and Augusta.