02 9159 9010
Charged with Fraud or a Dishonesty Offence?
Fraud and dishonesty offences are governed primarily by Part 4AA of the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW). The main fraud offence under section 192E carries a maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment. These charges cover a wide range of conduct, from small-scale benefit claims to complex corporate fraud, tax fraud, and breach of trust matters.
At Blackridge Law, we have extensive experience defending clients against all types of fraud and dishonesty charges. These matters often involve complex financial evidence, electronic records, and lengthy prosecution briefs — making experienced legal representation essential from the outset.
Contact Blackridge Law on 02 9159 9010 for a free consultation.
Fraud Offences We Defend
| Offence | Section | Max Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Fraud (General) | s 192E, Crimes Act | 10 years |
| Larceny / Theft | s 117, Crimes Act | 5 years |
| Larceny by Clerk/Servant | s 156, Crimes Act | 10 years |
| Embezzlement | s 157, Crimes Act | 10 years |
| Destroy/Conceal Accounting Records | s 192F, Crimes Act | 5 years |
| False/Misleading Statement | s 192G, Crimes Act | 5 years |
| Identity Fraud (Use) | s 192J, Crimes Act | 10 years |
| Identity Fraud (Possession) | s 192K, Crimes Act | 3 years |
| Using a False Document / Forgery | s 253–256, Crimes Act | 10 years |
| Goods in Custody (Stolen Property) | s 527C, Crimes Act | 6 months (Local Court) |
What Is Fraud Under Section 192E?
The main fraud offence under section 192E provides that a person is guilty of fraud if they, by any deception, dishonestly obtain property belonging to another, obtain any financial advantage, or cause any financial disadvantage.
To secure a conviction, the prosecution must prove beyond reasonable doubt:
- The accused engaged in deceptive conduct (misrepresentation by words, conduct, or omission)
- The conduct was dishonest according to the standards of ordinary people, and the accused knew it was dishonest
- The deception caused a financial advantage to be obtained or a financial disadvantage to be suffered
Defences to Fraud
- No Deception: There was no deceptive conduct — the representations made were truthful or accurate
- No Dishonesty: The conduct was not dishonest according to community standards
- Claim of Right: The accused had an honest belief that they were legally entitled to the property or financial advantage
- No Financial Advantage/Disadvantage: No financial benefit was obtained and no financial loss was caused
- No Causation: The deception did not cause the financial outcome — the outcome would have occurred regardless
- Duress or Necessity: The accused was forced to commit the fraud under threat of serious harm
How Blackridge Law Can Help
Fraud cases often involve voluminous financial evidence, electronic records, and complex legal arguments. Our lawyers have experience analysing prosecution briefs in large-scale fraud matters, challenging forensic accounting evidence, negotiating with the DPP, and presenting strong defence cases at trial. We also work to achieve non-conviction outcomes for less serious dishonesty offences.
Speak with a lawyer
Charged with a fraud offence? Call Blackridge Law now.
Suite 36, Level 4, 402-410 Chapel Rd, Bankstown NSW 2200
Free consultation | Fixed fees | Available 24/7
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