Free consultationCriminal defense in Southern California, available 24/7(888) 315-3326Español

Welfare Fraud Defense Attorney in Inglewood, California

Table of Contents

A judge’s gavel beside stacks of coins and banknotes

When you’re facing welfare fraud charges in Inglewood, California, you’re confronting serious criminal allegations that can result in years in state prison, substantial fines, mandatory restitution, permanent criminal records, and devastating consequences for your family, employment, immigration status, and ability to receive future government benefits. Whether you’ve been accused of CalFresh fraud, Medi-Cal fraud, CalWORKs fraud, unemployment insurance fraud, or any other form of public assistance fraud, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands the complexities of these cases and will fight aggressively to protect your rights and freedom. At Tu Defensor Criminalista, we provide skilled, strategic defense representation to clients throughout Inglewood and Los Angeles County who are facing welfare fraud charges.

Understanding Welfare Fraud in Inglewood, California

Inglewood is a diverse, vibrant city in southwestern Los Angeles County with a population of approximately 102,774 residents. Located in the heart of Southern California and home to world-class venues including SoFi Stadium, The Forum, and the Hollywood Park entertainment complex, Inglewood has experienced tremendous economic transformation in recent years. However, like many urban communities, Inglewood residents include individuals and families who rely on government assistance programs to meet basic needs.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau[1], Inglewood’s poverty rate and household income statistics reflect economic challenges that many residents face. Numerous families in Inglewood participate in programs including CalFresh (food stamps), Medi-Cal (Medicaid), CalWORKs (welfare-to-work), unemployment insurance, and other forms of public assistance.

The California Department of Social Services[2] administers many of California’s public assistance programs and works with county welfare departments to investigate suspected fraud. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services[3] serves Inglewood residents and investigates allegations of welfare fraud in the county.

According to the California Department of Justice[4], welfare fraud arrests and prosecutions are taken seriously by California law enforcement and prosecutors, with dedicated fraud investigation units operating throughout the state.

The California Welfare Fraud Investigators Association[5] reports that welfare fraud investigations have increased in recent years, with enhanced technology and data-matching systems making it easier for authorities to detect discrepancies in benefit applications and ongoing eligibility reporting.


Understanding the specific charges you’re facing, the elements prosecutors must prove, and the available defenses is critical to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome in your case.

California Welfare and Institutions Code § 10980: Welfare Fraud Definitions and Types

California Welfare and Institutions Code Section 10980 defines welfare fraud and establishes criminal penalties for various forms of public assistance fraud. Welfare fraud occurs when someone knowingly makes false statements or representations, conceals material facts, or engages in other fraudulent acts to obtain or retain benefits they are not entitled to receive.

Types of Welfare Fraud Prosecuted in California

Applicant Fraud: Making false statements or providing false information on an initial application for benefits, including:

  • Lying about income, assets, or household composition
  • Failing to disclose employment or other income sources
  • Providing false identification or residency information
  • Claiming dependents who don’t live with you or don’t exist

Recipient Fraud: Continuing to receive benefits by failing to report changes in circumstances that affect eligibility, including:

  • Failing to report employment or increased income
  • Failing to report that household members have moved out
  • Failing to report receipt of other benefits or financial resources
  • Continuing to collect benefits after eligibility has ended

Trafficking Benefits: Buying, selling, or trading government benefits such as:

  • Selling EBT cards for cash
  • Trading food stamps for non-food items, drugs, or services
  • Allowing others to use your EBT card in exchange for money
  • Operating businesses that illegally exchange benefits for cash

Provider Fraud: Committed by businesses or service providers who:

  • Bill for services not rendered
  • Inflate charges for services provided
  • Provide unnecessary services to collect benefits
  • Accept EBT cards knowing the transactions violate program rules

Internal Fraud: Committed by employees of welfare agencies or related organizations who:

  • Process fraudulent applications
  • Issue unauthorized benefits
  • Steal client information for identity theft
  • Accept bribes to approve ineligible applications

Specific California Welfare Fraud Offenses and Penalties

Welfare and Institutions Code § 10980 – General Welfare Fraud

This is the primary welfare fraud statute that prohibits knowingly making false statements or representations to obtain or retain aid. Penalties depend on the amount of benefits fraudulently obtained:

Amount Under $950:

  • Misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in county jail
  • Fines up to $1,000
  • Restitution to the defrauded program
  • Disqualification from benefits

Amount Over $950:

  • Wobbler offense (misdemeanor or felony)
  • Misdemeanor: Up to one year in county jail
  • Felony: 16 months, two years, or three years in county jail
  • Fines up to $5,000
  • Mandatory restitution
  • Permanent or temporary disqualification from benefits

According to the California Department of Social Services[6], individuals convicted of welfare fraud may also face federal charges and prosecution if federal funds were involved in the defrauded programs.

Unemployment Insurance Fraud (California Unemployment Insurance Code §§ 1263, 2101, 2102)

Unemployment insurance fraud involves:

  • Making false statements to obtain unemployment benefits
  • Failing to report earnings while collecting unemployment
  • Using another person’s identity to claim benefits
  • Helping someone else fraudulently obtain benefits

Penalties include:

  • Fines up to $20,000
  • Up to three years in county jail
  • Repayment of fraudulently obtained benefits
  • 30% penalty on top of overpayment
  • Loss of future unemployment benefits

The California Employment Development Department (EDD)[7] investigates unemployment fraud and reports that California experienced massive increases in unemployment fraud during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to enhanced enforcement efforts.

Medi-Cal Fraud (California Welfare and Institutions Code § 14107)

Medi-Cal fraud includes:

  • Providing false information to obtain Medi-Cal coverage
  • Failing to report income or resources that would disqualify you
  • Using someone else’s Medi-Cal card
  • Allowing others to use your Medi-Cal benefits

Penalties vary based on the amount involved and can include felony charges, state prison time, substantial fines, and permanent disqualification from Medi-Cal.

Food Stamp/CalFresh Fraud

CalFresh fraud (formerly food stamps) includes:

  • Lying about income, household size, or expenses to receive higher benefits
  • Selling or trading EBT cards for cash, drugs, or non-food items
  • Using benefits for unauthorized purchases
  • Continuing to collect benefits after becoming ineligible

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service[8], SNAP (CalFresh) fraud is prosecuted under both state and federal law, with penalties including disqualification from the program, fines, and imprisonment.

CalWORKs Fraud

CalWORKs (California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids) fraud involves:

  • Providing false information about income, resources, or living arrangements
  • Failing to report changes that affect eligibility
  • Receiving duplicate benefits from multiple counties
  • Falsifying work participation or job search activities

Penalties are similar to general welfare fraud under WIC § 10980.

Social Security Fraud

While prosecuted primarily under federal law, Social Security fraud can also involve state charges when it overlaps with state benefit programs. Social Security fraud includes:

  • Concealing work activity while receiving disability benefits
  • Using a false identity to claim benefits
  • Failing to report changes in income or living arrangements
  • Claiming benefits for deceased individuals

According to the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General[9], Social Security fraud costs taxpayers billions annually and is aggressively investigated and prosecuted.

Welfare Fraud Statistics in Inglewood and Los Angeles County

Understanding the scope of welfare fraud enforcement provides important context for these cases. According to the California Department of Social Services[6], California’s welfare fraud prevention and investigation efforts have intensified in recent years with improved technology and data-sharing between agencies.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services[3] serves one of the largest populations in the nation, administering billions of dollars in public assistance annually. With such a large population receiving benefits, Los Angeles County dedicates substantial resources to fraud investigation and prosecution.

According to the California Welfare Fraud Investigators Association[5], California counties employ hundreds of investigators specifically dedicated to detecting and investigating welfare fraud. These investigators use sophisticated computer matching systems, database cross-checks, surveillance, undercover operations, and informant tips.

The California Employment Development Department[7] reported unprecedented levels of unemployment insurance fraud during the COVID-19 pandemic, with billions of dollars in fraudulent claims paid out. This has led to dramatically increased enforcement and prosecution efforts.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture[8], SNAP trafficking (buying and selling food stamp benefits) represents a significant portion of food assistance fraud nationwide, with California experiencing substantial enforcement activity.

Data from the Social Security Administration[9] shows that disability fraud and retirement fraud remain enforcement priorities, with aggressive investigation and prosecution of individuals suspected of defrauding Social Security programs.


These statistics demonstrate why welfare fraud is prosecuted so vigorously in Inglewood and throughout Los Angeles County—and why you need an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands these complex cases.

The Collateral Consequences of a Welfare Fraud Conviction

Beyond immediate criminal penalties, a welfare fraud conviction creates devastating collateral consequences:

Permanent Disqualification from Benefits

A welfare fraud conviction can result in:

  • Permanent disqualification from the defrauded program
  • Temporary disqualification (typically one to two years) even for minor offenses
  • Lifetime ban from food assistance programs for certain trafficking convictions
  • Disqualification of your entire household from certain programs

According to federal regulations[10], individuals convicted of fraudulently receiving SNAP benefits may be disqualified for 12 months (first offense), 24 months (second offense), or permanently (third offense).

Immigration Consequences

For non-citizens, welfare fraud convictions can trigger severe immigration consequences. Under federal immigration law, fraud offenses may constitute:

  • Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude (CIMTs): Can result in inadmissibility, deportation, and denial of naturalization
  • Aggravated Felonies (for larger amounts): Mandatory deportation with virtually no relief available

Even lawful permanent residents (green card holders) face deportation for welfare fraud convictions. Additionally, receiving public benefits can negatively impact immigration applications under “public charge” rules. If you are not a U.S. citizen, it is absolutely critical that your defense attorney understands immigration law and structures any resolution to protect your immigration status.

Employment Consequences

A welfare fraud conviction severely impacts employment because:

  • Fraud convictions involve dishonesty and moral turpitude, making employers reluctant to hire you
  • Background checks reveal the conviction
  • Professional licenses may be denied or revoked
  • Government jobs and positions requiring security clearances become unavailable
  • Jobs involving finances, bookkeeping, or positions of trust are effectively closed to you

Damage to Reputation and Community Standing

Welfare fraud carries significant stigma:

  • Neighbors, friends, and family may judge you harshly
  • The perception of “stealing from taxpayers” creates public hostility
  • Media coverage in high-profile cases can be humiliating
  • Your reputation in the community may be permanently damaged

Restitution Obligations

Courts order defendants to repay all fraudulently obtained benefits plus:

  • Interest
  • Investigation costs
  • Administrative costs
  • Penalties (often 10-30% of the overpayment)

These restitution obligations can total tens of thousands of dollars and must be repaid even after serving jail time. According to the California Department of Social Services[2], restitution is mandatory in welfare fraud cases and failure to pay can result in additional penalties.

Civil Lawsuits and Administrative Penalties

Beyond criminal prosecution, you may face:

  • Civil lawsuits seeking treble damages (three times the amount defrauded)
  • Administrative disqualification hearings
  • Liens on property and assets
  • Wage garnishment

Impact on Family

Your conviction affects your entire family:

  • Your children may lose benefits they legitimately qualify for
  • Your household may be disqualified from programs
  • The financial burden of restitution impacts the whole family
  • The stress and stigma affect family relationships

Common Defenses to Welfare Fraud Charges

At Tu Defensor Criminalista, we have successfully defended numerous clients against welfare fraud charges using strategic defenses tailored to each case. Effective defenses include:

Lack of Intent

Welfare fraud requires that you knowingly made false statements or knowingly concealed material facts. If the false information or omission was the result of mistake, confusion, or misunderstanding rather than intentional fraud, you should not be convicted.

Common scenarios involving lack of intent:

  • You misunderstood complex application questions
  • You made honest mistakes about what needed to be reported
  • You did not understand that certain income or changes needed to be reported
  • Language barriers led to miscommunication
  • You reasonably relied on incorrect advice from caseworkers
  • You have cognitive limitations, mental health issues, or low literacy that affected your understanding

We gather evidence including:

  • Your educational background and literacy level
  • Documentation of mental health conditions or cognitive impairments
  • Records of communications with caseworkers showing confusion or requests for clarification
  • Expert testimony about the complexity of welfare regulations
  • Evidence of good faith attempts to comply with reporting requirements

No Knowledge of False Statement

You cannot be convicted if you did not know the statement was false. Examples include:

  • Someone else filled out your application and you signed it without reading carefully
  • Your income information changed after you submitted the application but before it was processed
  • You reasonably believed information you provided was accurate
  • You were unaware that a household member had unreported income

Mistaken Identity or False Accusation

Sometimes individuals are wrongly accused of welfare fraud due to:

  • Identity theft (someone used your information to apply for benefits)
  • Clerical errors by welfare agency employees
  • Data matching errors between different agencies
  • False accusations by ex-spouses, family members, or others with ulterior motives
  • Confusion between individuals with similar names

We thoroughly investigate to determine whether you actually committed the alleged fraud or whether errors or false accusations are involved.

Insufficient Evidence

The prosecution must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt. In many welfare fraud cases, the evidence is circumstantial or ambiguous. We challenge insufficient evidence by:

  • Highlighting lack of direct evidence showing intentional fraud
  • Demonstrating that discrepancies can be explained by honest mistakes
  • Exposing weaknesses in the investigation
  • Presenting alternative explanations for alleged inconsistencies
  • Showing that the prosecution cannot prove you knowingly made false statements

Unlawful Search and Seizure

If investigators obtained evidence through illegal searches of your home, vehicle, or property without a warrant or your consent, we can file motions to suppress that evidence under the Fourth Amendment.

Violation of Your Constitutional Rights

If investigators violated your rights during interrogation, we can suppress statements obtained:

  • Without Miranda warnings when you were in custody
  • Through coercive tactics, threats, or promises
  • After you invoked your right to remain silent or right to an attorney

Entrapment

If government investigators or informants induced you to commit welfare fraud that you would not have otherwise committed, this may constitute entrapment.

Statute of Limitations

Welfare fraud prosecutions must generally be commenced within three years of discovery of the alleged fraud. If the prosecution delayed too long, charges may be barred.

De Minimis Violation

For very minor overpayments resulting from technical violations or minimal discrepancies, we argue that prosecution is not warranted and seek dismissal or alternative resolution.

Good Faith Reliance on Official Advice

If you relied in good faith on advice from welfare caseworkers or other officials regarding what needed to be reported, this can be a defense to fraud charges.

Our Strategic Approach to Defending Welfare Fraud Cases in Inglewood

At Tu Defensor Criminalista, we provide comprehensive defense representation including:

Immediate Investigation and Consultation

We begin by:

  • Reviewing all benefit applications, recertifications, and correspondence
  • Examining the evidence prosecutors claim supports fraud charges
  • Interviewing you in detail about your understanding of reporting requirements
  • Reviewing communications with welfare caseworkers
  • Examining your financial records to understand the actual facts
  • Calculating the actual overpayment amount (often less than alleged)
  • Identifying errors in the investigation or charging documents

Pre-Filing Intervention

In many cases, we can intervene before criminal charges are filed by:

  • Presenting evidence to investigators and prosecutors showing lack of fraudulent intent
  • Demonstrating that discrepancies resulted from honest mistakes or confusion
  • Negotiating civil restitution agreements instead of criminal prosecution
  • Arranging for voluntary repayment plans
  • Providing documentation explaining apparent inconsistencies

Our pre-filing intervention has prevented criminal charges from being filed in numerous cases, allowing clients to resolve matters civilly without criminal records.

Negotiating Favorable Resolutions

When charges have been filed, we negotiate with prosecutors to achieve:

  • Dismissal of charges in exchange for restitution
  • Reduction from felony to misdemeanor
  • Diversion programs allowing you to avoid conviction
  • Deferred entry of judgment with dismissal upon completion of requirements
  • Probation instead of jail time
  • Minimal jail sentences or alternative sentencing
  • Structured restitution payment plans you can afford
  • Outcomes that avoid immigration consequences

Aggressive Trial Defense

When necessary, we take welfare fraud cases to trial. Our trial strategy includes:

  • Selecting favorable jurors who understand that mistakes are not crimes
  • Presenting evidence of your good character and lack of criminal intent
  • Cross-examining investigators to expose weaknesses in their investigation
  • Presenting expert testimony on the complexity of welfare regulations
  • Demonstrating reasonable doubt about fraudulent intent
  • Making compelling closing arguments that humanize you and contextualize any errors

We have achieved not guilty verdicts in welfare fraud trials.

Post-Conviction Relief

Even after conviction, we continue fighting by:

  • Filing appeals challenging legal errors
  • Seeking early termination of probation
  • Petitioning for expungement under Penal Code § 1203.4
  • Pursuing reduction of felony to misdemeanor under PC § 17(b)
  • Negotiating reduced restitution amounts
  • Seeking modification of benefit disqualification periods

The Investigation and Prosecution Process for Welfare Fraud

Understanding how welfare fraud cases develop helps you protect your rights:

How Investigations Begin

Welfare fraud investigations typically start from:

  • Computer data matching systems that detect discrepancies between databases
  • Tips from neighbors, ex-spouses, or others who report suspected fraud
  • Random audits and quality control reviews
  • Discrepancies discovered during eligibility recertifications
  • Reports from landlords, employers, or other third parties

Investigation Methods

Fraud investigators use various techniques:

  • Reviewing application materials and case files
  • Conducting database searches (employment, DMV, IRS, other benefit programs)
  • Interviewing neighbors, landlords, employers
  • Conducting surveillance of your residence
  • Examining bank records and financial transactions
  • Social media monitoring
  • Undercover operations at stores suspected of trafficking EBT cards

Your Rights During Investigation

If investigators contact you:

  • You have the right to remain silent – You are not required to answer questions
  • You have the right to an attorney – Request a lawyer before speaking to investigators
  • Do not consent to searches – Investigators need a warrant or your consent to search your home
  • Do not sign anything – Do not sign admissions or repayment agreements without consulting an attorney

Administrative Disqualification Hearings

Before criminal charges, you may face administrative hearings where the welfare agency seeks to:

  • Disqualify you from benefits
  • Establish an overpayment amount
  • Order you to repay benefits

You have the right to representation at these hearings. Anything you say can be used against you in criminal proceedings, so it is critical to have an attorney.

Criminal Prosecution

If the case is referred for criminal prosecution:

  • The District Attorney’s office reviews the evidence
  • Charges are filed if prosecutors believe they can prove the case
  • You are arrested or receive a notice to appear
  • The criminal court process begins with arraignment

The Court Process for Welfare Fraud Cases in Inglewood

Welfare fraud cases in Inglewood are prosecuted in the Inglewood Courthouse, part of the Los Angeles County Superior Court system, located at:

Inglewood Courthouse One Regent Street Inglewood, CA 90301

Arraignment

At your first court appearance:

  • The judge informs you of the charges
  • You enter a plea (we advise pleading not guilty initially)
  • Bail is set (if you were arrested)
  • The next court date is scheduled

Pretrial Proceedings

During pretrial hearings:

  • Your attorney receives discovery (evidence) from the prosecution
  • We file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if applicable
  • We negotiate with prosecutors for favorable resolutions
  • We prepare for preliminary hearing (if felony) or trial

Resolution

Most welfare fraud cases resolve through:

  • Negotiated plea agreements
  • Diversion programs
  • Civil compromise with restitution
  • Dismissal based on lack of evidence

Trial

If your case proceeds to trial:

  • You have the right to a jury trial
  • Prosecutors must prove every element beyond reasonable doubt
  • Your attorney presents your defense
  • The jury deliberates and returns a verdict

Sentencing

If convicted or after accepting a plea:

  • The judge considers the probation report
  • Victim impact (the defrauded agency)
  • Your attorney’s mitigation arguments
  • Circumstances of the offense and your background
  • The judge imposes sentence including restitution

Diversion and Alternative Sentencing Options

Many first-time welfare fraud defendants are eligible for alternatives to conviction:

Pretrial Diversion

Under California Penal Code § 1001.95, courts have discretion to grant pretrial diversion for most misdemeanors and some felonies. If granted:

  • Criminal proceedings are suspended
  • You complete counseling, community service, and restitution
  • Upon successful completion (typically 12-24 months), charges are dismissed
  • You avoid a criminal conviction

Deferred Entry of Judgment

The court may allow you to enter a plea, defer judgment, and complete requirements including:

  • Financial literacy or budgeting classes
  • Community service
  • Full restitution
  • Probation compliance

Upon successful completion, you withdraw your plea and charges are dismissed.

Civil Compromise (Penal Code § 1377-1379)

For misdemeanor welfare fraud, if you make full restitution to the victim (the defrauded program), the court may dismiss criminal charges under civil compromise provisions.

Probation Instead of Jail

Even if convicted, first-time offenders often receive probation instead of jail, with conditions including:

  • Restitution payments
  • Community service
  • Counseling or classes
  • Regular reporting to a probation officer

Why Choose Tu Defensor Criminalista for Your Welfare Fraud Defense?

When facing welfare fraud charges, you need an attorney with:

Experience in Welfare Fraud Defense

Our attorneys have defended numerous welfare fraud cases involving CalFresh, Medi-Cal, CalWORKs, unemployment insurance, and other benefit programs. We understand the complex regulations governing these programs and the most effective defense strategies.

Understanding of the Human Element

We recognize that many welfare fraud allegations arise from honest mistakes, confusion about complex rules, language barriers, or difficult life circumstances rather than criminal intent. We present your case with empathy and context.

Proven Track Record

We have achieved:

  • Pre-filing resolutions avoiding criminal charges
  • Dismissals of charges after filing
  • Reductions from felony to misdemeanor
  • Diversion and alternative sentencing
  • Acquittals at trial
  • Minimal or no jail time
  • Manageable restitution payment plans

Knowledge of Inglewood Courts

We practice regularly in Inglewood Courthouse and throughout Los Angeles County, with established relationships that help us navigate your case effectively.

Personalized Attention

We treat every client with dignity and respect, understanding that welfare fraud allegations often involve families struggling to survive. We take time to understand your circumstances and develop tailored defense strategies.

Bilingual Services

We are fluent in English and Spanish (Hablamos Español), ensuring clear communication throughout your case.

24/7 Availability

We are available around the clock to provide immediate assistance when you need it most.

Protection of Your Rights and Future

We fight not just to minimize criminal penalties but to protect your ability to receive benefits in the future, avoid immigration consequences, and preserve your reputation and opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be charged with welfare fraud even if I made an honest mistake?

Technically, no—welfare fraud requires that you knowingly made false statements or knowingly concealed material facts. However, prosecutor often charge individuals even when mistakes were honest. This is why experienced legal representation is critical. We present evidence showing your mistake was genuine, not fraudulent.

What if I didn’t know I was supposed to report certain things?

Lack of knowledge can be a defense. If you genuinely didn’t understand reporting requirements due to complexity, language barriers, cognitive limitations, or inadequate explanation from caseworkers, you may not have the required criminal intent for fraud. We gather evidence supporting your lack of knowledge.

Can I just pay the money back to avoid criminal charges?

Sometimes. Before charges are filed, offering restitution can sometimes resolve the matter civilly. After charges are filed, restitution is helpful but doesn’t automatically result in dismissal. We negotiate with prosecutors using restitution as leverage for favorable resolutions including diversion or dismissal.

Will I go to jail if convicted of welfare fraud?

Not necessarily. Many first-time welfare fraud defendants receive probation instead of jail, especially for smaller amounts and when there are mitigating circumstances. We work to achieve alternatives to incarceration including diversion, probation, community service, and restitution.

Will I be permanently banned from receiving benefits?

It depends on the program and the conviction. Some convictions result in permanent disqualification, others result in temporary disqualification (1-2 years), and sometimes disqualification can be avoided through diversion or civil resolution. We structure resolutions to minimize or avoid benefit disqualification whenever possible.

Can welfare fraud charges affect my immigration status?

Yes. Welfare fraud can be considered a crime involving moral turpitude or aggravated felony under immigration law, potentially leading to deportation, inadmissibility, or denial of naturalization. If you are not a U.S. citizen, it is critical that your attorney understands immigration law and structures any plea to avoid triggering immigration consequences.

What if someone else filled out my application and I just signed it?

This can be a valid defense showing lack of intent. However, you may still have responsibility for what you signed. We present evidence showing you relied on others, didn’t understand what you were signing, or were misled. This is especially compelling when language barriers or literacy issues are involved.

How long do they have to charge me with welfare fraud?

Generally, prosecutors must file charges within three years of discovery of the alleged fraud. If they waited too long, charges may be barred by the statute of limitations.

What if investigators want to interview me?

Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Anything you say can be used against you. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact an experienced criminal defense attorney.

Can I get the charges expunged from my record?

Yes, in many cases. If you successfully complete probation, you can petition for expungement under Penal Code § 1203.4. This dismisses the conviction and can help with employment and other opportunities, though some consequences (like benefit disqualification) may remain.

Contact Tu Defensor Criminalista Today for a Free Consultation

If you are under investigation for welfare fraud or have been charged with any form of public assistance fraud in Inglewood, California, time is critical. The sooner we begin working on your case, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. At Tu Defensor Criminalista, we provide compassionate, strategic defense representation to protect your rights, your freedom, your benefits, and your future.

Contact Information

Service areasServing Inglewood and nearby communities
LanguagesEnglish & Spanish (Hablamos Español)
Get a Free Consultation

We offer free, confidential consultations to discuss your case, answer your questions, and explain your legal options. Our attorneys are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide immediate assistance when you need it most.

Don’t face welfare fraud charges alone. Contact Tu Defensor Criminalista today and let us fight for you.


Citations and References

  1. U.S. Census Bureau. “QuickFacts: Inglewood city, California.” Available at: https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/inglewoodcitycalifornia[1]
  2. California Department of Social Services. “Fraud Prevention and Investigation.” Available at: https://www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/fraud-prevention[6]
  3. Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services. “DPSS Home.” Available at: https://dpss.lacounty.gov/[3]
  4. California Department of Justice. “Crime Statistics: Crimes & Clearances.” Available at: https://openjustice.doj.ca.gov/exploration/crime-statistics/crimes-clearances[4]
  5. California Welfare Fraud Investigators Association. “About CWFIA.” Available at: https://www.cwfia.org/[5]
  6. California Employment Development Department. “EDD Fraud Program.” Available at: https://edd.ca.gov/about_edd/fraud_program.htm[7]
  7. U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service. “What is SNAP Fraud?” Available at: https://www.fns.usda.gov/fraud/what-is-snap-fraud[8]
  8. Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General. “What is Fraud?” Available at: https://oig.ssa.gov/what-fraud[9]
  9. U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service. “SNAP Eligibility.” Available at: https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/eligibility[10]
  10. California Legislative Information. “Welfare and Institutions Code Section 10980.” Available at: https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=10980&lawCode=WIC[11]
  11. California Courts. “Criminal Law Self-Help.” Judicial Branch of California. Available at: https://www.courts.ca.gov/selfhelp-criminaltrial.htm[12]
  12. Los Angeles County Superior Court. “Inglewood Courthouse Information.” Available at: https://www.lacourt.org/courthouse/info/inglewood[13]
  13. California Legislative Information. “Penal Code Section 1377-1379 (Civil Compromise).” Available at: https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displayText.xhtml?lawCode=PEN&division=&title=9.&part=2.&chapter=2.&article=[14]
  14. California Employment Development Department. “Unemployment Insurance Fraud.” Available at: https://edd.ca.gov/about_edd/fraud_program.htm[7]
  15. California Department of Social Services. “CalFresh Program Information.” Available at: https://www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/calfresh[15]

Sources

  1. U.S. Census Bureau (census.gov)
  2. California Department of Social Services (cdss.ca.gov)
  3. Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services (dpss.lacounty.gov)
  4. California Department of Justice (openjustice.doj.ca.gov)
  5. California Welfare Fraud Investigators Association (cwfia.org)
  6. California Department of Social Services (cdss.ca.gov)
  7. California Employment Development Department (EDD) (edd.ca.gov)
  8. U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service (fns.usda.gov)
  9. Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General (oig.ssa.gov)
  10. federal regulations (fns.usda.gov)
  11. https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=10980&lawCode=WIC (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)
  12. https://www.courts.ca.gov/selfhelp-criminaltrial.htm (courts.ca.gov)
  13. https://www.lacourt.org/courthouse/info/inglewood (lacourt.org)
  14. https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displayText.xhtml?lawCode=PEN&division=&title=9.&part=2.&chapter=2.&article= (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)
  15. https://www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/calfresh (cdss.ca.gov)

Client Trust & Avvo Recognition

Attorney Armando Josué Cespedes is rated 5.0 on Avvo, with 34 five-star reviews from clients praising his dedication, professionalism, and results. Many note how his trial skills and attention to detail led to reduced charges or outright dismissals.

I was arrested for a DUI just recently, since Spanish is my first language, it was important to find a great attorney who was bilingual. Getting your first DUI can...
Christian
Armando cespedes went above and beyond for my case. I was very close to getting my license revoked as I am under the age of 21 and received my second...
Nathan
I was referred to Mr. Cespedes by a family friend who was very pleased with his legal services. Unfortunately, I got a DUI a few months ago and I was...
Connie
He cares and did everything possible to help me resolve my case. I was worried about my hit and run and DUI case. Not only did he go to court...
Pablo M.
Armando gets results with your best interest in mind. I was wrongfully being accused of making primal threats. Even though I was innocent, I was aware that the accusations are...
Raul
Extremely professional I recently had a brief phone consultation with Mr. Cespedes regarding a longtime friend of mine. Although he was unable to assist him with his legal needs, I...
Shereen

Find The Right Attorney For Free

Get help to resolve your case fast, quietly, and in your favor,
Fill out the form below for your consultation

Choose where to leave a review

Thank you! We need your help. Would you share your experience on one of these sites?

If you have concerns you wish to address privately