When facing legal challenges, deciding between appointing a public defender or hiring a private attorney is pivotal. For many, this choice is not just about legal representation; it’s about navigating a complex system with the best possible advocate by their side. Public defenders, often appointed for those unable to afford private counsel, are integral to […] The post Should You Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer or Use a Public Defender? appeared first on Norman Spencer Law Group ..read more

If you find yourself navigating the turbulent waters of a tax fraud accusation, understanding the potential penalties and the gravity of the situation is paramount. Tax fraud, a serious offense, involves intentionally misleading tax authorities like the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or state tax agencies by providing false information or submitting a fraudulent tax return. […] The post What are the Penalties for Tax Evasion and Tax Fraud? appeared first on Norman Spencer Law Group ..read more

Tax fraud is a significant concern for anyone with taxable income, including individuals and businesses of all sizes. With its detailed and sometimes complex rules, the federal income tax law can lead to misunderstandings or missteps, potentially resulting in accusations of fraudulent tax returns. This guide aims to clearly understand what tax fraud involves and […] The post What Is Tax Fraud? Your Essential Legal Guide appeared first on Norman Spencer Law Group ..read more

What is a target letter? Receiving a target letter from the federal government, such as the Department of Justice or other federal law enforcement agencies, is a significant event. It indicates that you are now under serious scrutiny in a federal criminal investigation. This letter suggests there’s substantial evidence linking you to a crime, marking […] The post What is a Target Letter from the Federal Government? appeared first on Norman Spencer Law Group ..read more

Medicaid fraud investigations in New York typically begin when a Medicaid fraud investigator obtains information suggesting that a person is illegally receiving Medicaid benefits. This may involve false information on applications or reselling products acquired through the Medicaid program. Evidence can come from various sources, including business and payroll records or even insights from co-workers and neighbors. Medicare vs Medicaid Medicare is a federal program authorizing the financing of healthcare costs for the elderly. In the Medicare program, healthcare providers submit claims re ..read more

  Taxes play a crucial role in our society, funding necessary public services and infrastructure. However, there’s often a cloud of confusion surrounding the terms ‘tax evasion’ and ‘tax avoidance,’ with many individuals unclear on the significant legal distinctions between them. While both concepts revolve around reducing tax liabilities, they diverge sharply in their methods, legality, and societal implications. By understanding the legal avenues available to minimize tax liability and the criminal repercussions associated with fraudulent practices to evade taxes, you are better positio ..read more

Each year, thousands of NYC residents are investigated by NYC HRA for public benefits fraud. An investigation dealing with Medicaid recipient fraud or Food Stamp fraud begins when a target letter is mailed to you via first-class mail or hand-delivered. The letter may state that it is from the Human Resources Administration, Department of Social Services, and the letter may say it is from the Investigation Revenue and Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Fraud Investigation. Regardless of where or who it is from, it is essential not to ignore this letter. The Human Resource Administration (HRA ..read more

The Employee Retention Credit (ERC) is a refundable tax credit available to eligible employers who kept employees on their payroll during the COVID-19 pandemic. This refundable tax credit was introduced to support businesses that retained their employees, even amidst the economic challenges posed by the pandemic. The credit is designed to help employers offset the cost of wages and health insurance premiums paid to qualified employees. Navigating complex financial programs can be challenging, and the ERC is no exception. Without a clear understanding of its intricacies, well-intentioned indivi ..read more

Understanding the intricacies of grand Larceny in New York City is crucial for anyone facing such charges or wanting to be informed about the city’s legal landscape. Grand Larceny is a term often used in legal discussions, but what does it entail? How is it different from Petit Larceny? And what are the potential consequences of being convicted? Whether you’re facing such charges, working in the legal field, or simply wanting to stay informed, this guide will provide a comprehensive overview of grand Larceny in NYC. Understanding Larceny: The Basics Larceny is essentially a legal term for “ste ..read more

If you or a loved one has been accused of shoplifting in New York City, it is essential to understand the laws and potential consequences of a conviction. Shoplifting, also known as “larceny” or simply “theft,” is a crime that can have severe repercussions on your life, career, and future opportunities. As a seasoned criminal defense attorney, I am here to help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and fight for your rights. What is Shoplifting? Shoplifting is defined as the wrongful taking, obtaining, or withholding of another person’s or entity’s property with the intent to depri ..read more