Fraud Attorney in Des Moines

Facing Fraud Accusations And Not Sure What To Do Next?

Finding out that you are under investigation for fraud, or learning that charges have already been filed, can change everything in a moment. A fraud attorney in Des Moines can help you understand what these accusations really mean and what choices you have before you speak to investigators or go to court. If you are feeling anxious, embarrassed, or simply unsure where to start, you are not alone, and you do not have to face this on your own.

At McEnroe, Gotsdiner, Steinbach, Rothman & Kendell P.C., we defend people who suddenly find themselves caught in the criminal justice system and worried about their future. Our attorneys have practiced criminal defense in Iowa for many years, and our work has included cases that reached the Iowa Supreme Court. We draw on that experience to guide clients step by step, explain the process in plain language, and focus on protecting their rights at every stage.

Whether you learned about an investigation from a knock on the door, a call from an employer, or a letter telling you to appear in court, our team is here to listen carefully and help you make informed decisions about what comes next.

To talk confidentially with our team of fraud attorneys in Des Moines about your situation, call (515) 516-3745 or contact us online today.

Why People Turn To Our Firm When Accused Of Fraud

When someone is accused of fraud, they often worry that no one will believe them or take the time to understand what really happened. Our firm of fraud lawyers in Des Moines has represented people in criminal cases in Iowa for decades, and our current attorneys, Steinbach, Rothman, and Kendell, carry forward a strong tradition of careful, serious defense work. We know how stressful a fraud allegation can be, especially for people who have never had any contact with the criminal courts before.

Our fraud attorneys in Des Moines have handled matters that reached the Iowa Supreme Court. That experience has helped us develop a deep understanding of how Iowa law works and how complex legal issues are analyzed and decided. When we defend someone facing a fraud accusation, we draw on that background to carefully examine statutes, case law, and procedural rules that may affect the outcome.

We also recognize that access to capable counsel is a real concern. Our firm provides affordable options for many first-time offenders and accepts credit cards, which helps clients manage legal costs during an already stressful time. We offer after-hours intake answering, so if something happens outside the workday, you can still reach someone who can start the process of connecting you with our fraud attorneys in Des Moines. Our goal is to combine strong legal analysis with practical support, so clients feel both defended and heard.

Understanding Fraud Charges & Investigations In Iowa

Fraud allegations can arise in many different ways. Some people are contacted about suspected credit card or debit card misuse. Others face claims related to checks, online banking, insurance applications, public benefits, or financial records connected to their job. In Iowa, conduct that prosecutors see as dishonest gain through misrepresentation or concealment can be charged under several different statutes, depending on the facts and amounts involved.

For many people, the first sign of a problem is a call from a police officer, a county attorney investigator, or a loss prevention or compliance department. In some situations, the person hears about an investigation long before formal charges are filed in a court that serves the Des Moines area. In other situations, a complaint, trial information, or arrest warrant has already been issued before the first contact happens.

Fraud-related offenses in Iowa can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies. The level often depends on factors such as the value involved, the number of transactions, whether there are prior convictions, and which specific statute prosecutors use. Felony fraud charges bring a real risk of prison time and significant fines, while misdemeanor charges can still lead to jail, probation, and serious long-term consequences. Understanding what has actually been filed, or what might be filed, is one of the first tasks we address when we meet with a client.

How Our Fraud Attorneys in Des Moines Build Your Case

Listening To Your Story & Reviewing The Charges

When you contact us about a fraud accusation, our fraud attorneys in Des Moines begin by listening. During a confidential consultation, we review any paperwork you have received, such as complaints, trial information, or notices to appear in courts that serve Polk County and nearby areas. We ask about how you first learned of the investigation, what contact you have had with law enforcement or investigators, and what records you can access. Our goal at this stage is to understand the full picture, not just the accusations on paper.

Analyzing Evidence & Procedures

From there, our fraud lawyer team works to analyze the evidence and legal issues that may shape your case. We look at how financial records were obtained, how interviews were conducted, and whether searches, warrants, or subpoenas followed proper procedures. If we see grounds to challenge how evidence was gathered or how the case is framed, we can file motions to raise those issues with the court. Even when the basic facts are not in dispute, there may be questions about intent, value, or identity that can significantly change the way prosecutors and judges view the matter.

Navigating Local Courts & Negotiations

We also pay close attention to how cases typically move through courts in and around Des Moines. Understanding how local county attorneys tend to handle certain categories of fraud can help us advise you about likely paths, whether that involves negotiation, possible diversion programs, or preparing for trial. Throughout, we stay in contact with you, explain what is happening, and help you weigh the risks and benefits of each option, so your decisions are informed and deliberate rather than rushed.

Consequences Of A Fraud Conviction & Why Early Defense Matters

Criminal Penalties You May Face

A fraud conviction is not just a matter of fines or a short stint in jail. In Iowa, a conviction for a fraud-related offense can lead to incarceration, probation, restitution orders, and conditions such as counseling or community service. Restitution and court costs can place a significant financial burden on you and your family. Even when a person avoids prison, strict probation terms can affect daily life and limit travel and employment opportunities.

Why Acting Quickly Matters

Court officials and prosecutors in Iowa consider a range of factors when they make decisions in these cases, including the charge level, prior criminal history, the amount at issue, and the strength of the evidence. Early legal work from your fraud attorney in Des Moines can shape what information is available to those decision makers and how they view your situation. By getting involved as soon as possible, we can work to present context, address restitution questions, and explore options that may reduce the long term impact on your life.

Support, Communication & Fees

Clear Discussions About Costs

We understand that cost is a serious concern, especially when a fraud allegation already threatens your job or income. Our firm of fraud attorneys in Des Moines works to provide affordable representation options for many people facing a first offense, and we accept credit cards to help clients manage legal fees. When you meet with us, we discuss anticipated costs clearly and talk through what you can expect financially as the case moves forward.

Consistent, Accessible Communication

Communication is another key part of how we work. We know that new questions often arise after normal business hours, particularly if there has been an arrest, a search, or unexpected contact from law enforcement. Our after-hours intake answering allows you to reach someone who can start the process of connecting you with our team, so you are not left wondering what to do until the next business day. Once our fraud attorneys in Des Moines begin working with you, we strive to return calls, explain developments, and keep you updated on court dates and other deadlines.

Language Access For Clients & Families

For clients and families who are more comfortable speaking in a language other than English, being able to clearly discuss the case is essential. Members of our team can communicate in French and Chinese, which can make a significant difference when you are trying to understand detailed financial records or legal procedures. Whatever your background, we treat you with respect and take the time to explain your options, so you can participate fully in decisions about your defense.

Call us at (515) 516-3745 today. Early guidance can make a meaningful difference in how a case develops, and reaching out is a strong first step toward regaining a sense of control.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do If An Investigator Contacts Me About Fraud?

If an investigator contacts you about possible fraud, it is usually best to speak with a fraud attorney in Des Moines before you answer detailed questions. Investigators are trained to gather information, and even statements you believe are harmless can be interpreted in ways that are not helpful to you. When you call our firm, we can talk with you about what has happened so far and advise you on how to respond, including whether we should communicate with the investigator on your behalf.

In many situations, we recommend that clients avoid written statements or recorded interviews until we have reviewed the basic allegations and any available documents. That way, you are not making decisions in the dark. We can often help clarify what the investigator is actually looking at, what the potential charges might be, and how best to protect your rights during this stage.

Could I Go To Jail For A First-Time Fraud Charge?

Jail is a possibility in many fraud cases, even for a first offense, but the actual outcome depends on several factors. Courts in Iowa generally look at the level of the charge, the amount involved, whether there was a prior record, and how the offense is described in the evidence. Some first-time defendants may be able to avoid jail through probation or other arrangements, while others may face a higher risk of incarceration, especially if the alleged conduct involves significant amounts or multiple incidents.

When you meet with our fraud attorneys in Des Moines, we review the documents in your case and talk through your background, so we can give you a more specific sense of what the court might consider. We then work to pursue options that reduce the risk of jail where the law and the facts allow, such as by addressing restitution issues early or presenting context about your work history and family responsibilities. While no lawyer can promise a particular result, having a fraud lawyer who understands Iowa criminal practice helps you understand the range of possible outcomes and plan accordingly.

How Much Does It Cost To Hire You For A Fraud Case?

The cost of representation in a fraud case depends on factors such as the seriousness of the charges, the amount of evidence to review, and whether the matter goes to trial. We talk about fees with you at the beginning of the case, so you have a clear idea of what to expect. Our firm works to provide affordable representation options for many first-time offenders, and we accept credit cards, which can make paying for legal services more manageable.

During your initial consultation, we can discuss the likely stages of your case, from investigation and early hearings through any potential trial, and explain how that affects our fees. We know that financial uncertainty adds to the stress of a fraud allegation, and we strive to be transparent and straightforward about costs, so there are no unnecessary surprises as the case moves forward.

Will I Have To Go To Trial For A Fraud Charge?

Many fraud cases resolve without a trial, but some do go to trial, and it is important to be prepared for either path. Whether a case proceeds to trial depends on how strong each side believes the evidence is, what plea options are available, and what your goals are for resolving the matter. Some clients decide to accept a negotiated resolution, while others choose to have a judge or jury decide the case.

Our approach is to prepare as though a trial is possible, while also exploring any reasonable alternatives along the way. We explain the pros and cons of offers that may be on the table, and we help you understand what a trial would likely involve in terms of time, stress, and risk. That way, if a trial becomes the best option or the only option, you are not facing it without preparation or support.

Reach out to us for a consultation today. We take the time to listen, explain your options, and work with you on a strategy that takes your whole life into account, not just the next court date.