Criminal Law - First Tier 2023
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Get immediate legal advice from specialist lawyers who know how to fight fraud charges.

Caldicott & Isaacs Lawyers – Lawyer Casey

Fraud matters often begin well before a charge is laid, and the steps you take during the early stages of an investigation can heavily influence how the case unfolds and the options available to you.

The cases listed on this page show the range of fraud offences we defend and how South Australian courts apply the law in practice, depending on the facts and circumstances of each matter.

Our reputation with clients, prosecutors and the courts has been built on meticulous preparation, strong advocacy and consistent results.

Fraud

Fraud

Reference: 1400268
Centrelink Fraud

Centrelink Fraud

Reference: 1600629
Theft of Funds from Employer

Theft of Funds from Employer

Reference: 1400789

Fraud offences are treated extremely seriously in South Australia and can result in heavy fines, significant restitution orders and prison sentences. These matters are often complex, involving financial records, digital evidence, witness statements, and allegations of deliberate dishonesty. If you have been contacted by police, served with a summons, or approached by a government or regulatory agency about suspected fraud, it is critical that you seek legal advice immediately.

At Caldicott + Isaacs, we defend the full range of fraud and deception offences, including Centrelink fraud, deception, dishonest dealings with documents, ASIC-related offences, embezzlement, and matters investigated by the Independent Commissioner Against Corruption (ICAC). Fraud allegations often arise from misunderstandings, incorrect assumptions, or financial documentation that is easily misinterpreted. Our role is to step in early, protect your rights, analyse the evidence and challenge the prosecution’s case at every stage.

Fraud cases require careful preparation, thorough analysis of financial material and detailed knowledge of regulatory processes. Our lawyers appear daily in South Australian courts and regularly represent clients in complex white-collar matters involving government agencies, financial institutions and corporate regulators. We understand how prosecutors build fraud cases and what strategies are most effective when defending them.

Whether the allegation involves Centrelink overpayments, false statements, forged documents, misuse of company funds, workplace investigations, or ICAC inquiries, we provide early and strategic advice. Speaking to authorities before obtaining legal guidance can seriously affect your position, so contact us before attending any interview or responding to requests for information.

Our firm is known for its professionalism, preparation and strong advocacy and have a history of achieving outstanding results in fraud cases. We work to narrow or challenge the allegations, negotiate resolutions where appropriate, or contest the charges entirely when the evidence does not support them. You can expect clear advice, meticulous preparation and outstanding representation throughout your matter.

Explore the individual fraud offence pages in this section for further information, then contact our team to discuss your circumstances and how we can help.

Talk to a Lawyer Today

If you need more information about fraud or white collar offences in South Australia, these FAQs answer the most common questions.

Do I need a lawyer for a fraud charge?

Yes. Fraud offences are complex and often rely on financial records, electronic data, and allegations of dishonesty. A lawyer can assess the evidence, protect your rights, and negotiate or defend the matter strategically.

What should I do if I’m contacted by Centrelink, ASIC, or police about fraud?

Seek legal advice immediately. Do not attend an interview or provide documents without speaking to a lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you.

What counts as “fraud” under South Australian law?

Fraud usually involves dishonesty, deception, or obtaining a benefit without lawful entitlement. This includes Centrelink fraud, using false documents, misleading statements, embezzlement, or corporate misconduct.

Can Centrelink overpayment investigations lead to criminal charges?

Yes. Centrelink may refer matters to investigators if they believe payments were obtained through deception or nondisclosure. We can assist with both the criminal and administrative aspects of these investigations.

What penalties apply to fraud offences?

Penalties vary but can include fines, restitution, community service, suspended sentences, or imprisonment. Larger sums of money or repeated behaviour usually result in harsher penalties.

Will I go to prison for fraud?

Not necessarily. Many first-time offenders avoid imprisonment with the right preparation and representation. Factors such as repayment, cooperation, and early engagement in the process can influence the outcome.

What is “dishonest dealings with documents”?

This involves creating, altering, using, or possessing documents with the intention of deceiving another person or obtaining a benefit. It includes forged signatures, altered records, or fabricated paperwork.

What happens if my employer accuses me of embezzlement?

Contact us immediately. Employers often act quickly and may involve police or conduct internal investigations. You should not provide explanations or sign statements without legal advice.

What is an ICAC investigation?

The Independent Commissioner Against Corruption investigates misconduct, maladministration, and corruption. If ICAC contacts you, you must obtain legal advice before responding, as compulsory questioning can have serious consequences.

What if the alleged fraud was a misunderstanding or mistake?

Many fraud allegations arise from genuine errors, miscommunication, or incorrect assumptions. We examine the evidence and challenge whether dishonesty can be proven.

Can fraud charges be negotiated or downgraded?

Yes. Prosecutors may agree to reduce, consolidate, or withdraw charges where the evidence is weak or repayment has occurred. We regularly negotiate favourable resolutions.

Do I have to attend court for a fraud charge?

In most cases, yes. Fraud charges are serious and require your attendance unless the court grants permission otherwise. We can appear with you and handle the process.

What is the role of financial evidence in fraud cases?

Financial documents, transaction histories, tax returns, and bank records are often central to these matters. We analyse this material carefully to challenge assumptions and identify alternative explanations.

Will a fraud conviction affect my job or professional licence?

Possibly. Fraud is considered a dishonesty offence, which can impact employment, security clearances, and professional registrations. We work to avoid convictions where possible.

When should I contact a lawyer?

Immediately. Contact our Adelaide criminal defence lawyers as soon as you become aware of an investigation or allegation, even before charges are laid. Early legal advice can significantly improve your position and prevent avoidable mistakes.

First Tier Criminal Lawyers 2025 Caldicott + Isaacs

James and his associates are professional, punctual and knowledgeable. We won against SAPOL through a technical and detailed process. Highly recommend.

SamC+I Client

I am grateful for your commitment to securing the best possible result for me. It has been a pleasure working with you.

C SClient

Highly recommend Casey Isaacs. He was fantastic and managed to get a excellent result in court very happy and very easy to deal with, also very nice friendly admin staff

Pete DClient

Dealt with my minor charge in a professional & serious manner. Other lawyers in Adelaide told me to "cop the charge" though James was completely open to fighting the case. Which he did successfully. Highly recommend.

WillClient

Will do their absolute best at getting you out of a sticky situation...very good at explaining in simple terms everything about what's going on.

LauraC+I Client
1

Don't say anything

Exercise your right to silence and don't say anything to police.
2

Stay calm

Keep calm and make a note of what happens as this will help later.
3

Call us immediately

If you’re arrested or spoken to by police, call us immediately on (08) 8110 7900.
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