Workers’ Compensation Fraud Defense Attorney in Florida
By Florida criminal defense attorney and former prosecutor, Christian Van Riper
Being accused of workers’ compensation fraud in Florida is a serious matter. What often begins as a misunderstanding, such as misreported injuries, overpayment disputes, or incomplete medical disclosures, can quickly turn into a criminal investigation.
I’m Christian Van Riper, a former Florida prosecutor and Florida criminal defense attorney at Van Riper & Nies Attorneys. Drawing on my experience as a Florida prosecutor, I understand how these cases are built, and more importantly, how to defend against them. My approach is direct, fast-moving, and thorough.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation Fraud in Florida
Florida law (Fla. Stat. § 440.105) makes it a crime to knowingly make false or misleading statements in connection with a workers’ compensation claim. Allegations may arise from:
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Exaggerated or falsified workers’ comp injury claims
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Failure to report prior injuries or outside employment (while receiving workers’ compensation benefits in Florida)
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Misuse of benefits or forged medical documents
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Employers underreporting payroll or misclassifying employees
- False mileage or reimbursement claims
These cases are often investigated by the Florida Division of Investigative and Forensic Services and prosecuted aggressively.
Penalties for Workers’ Compensation Fraud in Florida
The severity of the penalties associated with Florida workers’ compensation fraud depends on the amount of alleged fraud and whether bodily injury or organized schemes are involved
The penalties for workers’ compensation fraud in Florida depend on the amount of the alleged loss and the nature of the conduct. Under Florida Statutes §§ 440.105 and 440.106, a conviction can carry significant criminal and civil consequences. Workers’ compensation fraud in Florida involving less than $20,000 is charged as a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Alleged fraud between $20,000 and $100,000 is a third-degree felony, carrying up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine. Cases involving more than $100,000, multiple acts, or organized schemes are prosecuted as a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Florida courts also routinely order restitution for any alleged overpayment or insurance loss, and a conviction can result in additional collateral consequences such as loss of professional licenses, termination of employment, and permanent disqualification from receiving future workers’ compensation benefits.
Building a Strategic Defense to Allegations of Workers’ Compensation Fraud in Florida
Defending these charges requires a precise and early response. Common Florida criminal defenses include:
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Lack of intent to defraud
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Conflicting medical opinions
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Miscommunication with claims adjusters or doctors
- Mistake, reliance, or lack of knowledge
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Procedural violations in the investigation
- Inaccurate or incomplete evidence of fraudulent activity
As a former prosecutor, I know how investigators gather evidence and how to challenge it effectively, often before charges are even filed.
Personal Access and Immediate Action
Every client has my direct cell phone number because I believe criminal defense should never wait. As a Florida criminal defense lawyer, I act immediately to protect your rights, reputation, and livelihood. Call Christian Van Riper, our Workers’ Compensation Fraud Defense Attorney in Florida, for a free consultation day or night contact us here.
Contact Van Riper & Nies Attorneys if Charged with Workers’ Compensation Fraud:
Free consultations day or night.
West Palm Beach:
801 Northpoint Parkway, Suite 375
West Palm Beach, FL 33407 | (561) 948-5588
Stuart Law Office:
900 SE Ocean Boulevard, Suite 140-E
Stuart, FL 34994 | (772) 283-8712
Deerfield Beach:
10 Fairway Drive #139
Deerfield Beach, FL 33442 | (954) 369-0776
Delray Beach:
55 SE 2nd Avenue
Delray Beach, FL 33444 | (561) 894-9862
Boca Raton:
9825 Marina Boulevard, Suite 100A
Boca Raton, FL 33428 | (561) 948-5589