Insurance Fraud Lawyer in Chicago
Insurance fraud allegations in Chicago and surroundind areas in Illinois carry steep penalties, and Kovacevic Law provides the strategic defense needed to protect your freedom, your record, and your future.
Insurance fraud occurs when someone intentionally seeks benefits they are not legally entitled to by submitting information they know is false. These benefits may involve money, services, or property, and the law does not require the claim to be successful even an attempt can lead to criminal charges.
Under 720 ILCS 5/17-10.5, a person may be charged with insurance fraud for:
- Attempting to obtain benefits
- Causing someone else to obtain benefits
- Actually receiving benefits based on false information
Illinois also treats fraudulent claims against self-insured companies the same as claims filed with traditional insurance carriers. Because prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively often filing the highest possible charge supported by the facts immediate legal representation is critical.
If you have been charged with insurance fraud in Chicago or any other surrounding neighborhood in Ilinois, Kovacevic Law practices in Cook, Dupage, Lake, and other major counties around Chicao. Give us a call and we will help defend your case!
Common Examples of Insurance Fraud
Insurance fraud can involve a wide range of conduct across various types of insurance, including auto, homeowners, health, unemployment, life insurance, and workers’ compensation. A claim may be considered fraudulent if any part of the information submitted is knowingly inaccurate.
Examples include:
- Inflating the value of damage after a car accident
- Filing a workers’ compensation claim for an injury that never occurred
- Setting fire to property and attempting to collect insurance money
- Misrepresenting household size or income to qualify for benefits
Even small inaccuracies can lead to serious criminal exposure if prosecutors believe they were intentional.
Penalties for Insurance Fraud in Illinois
Illinois treats insurance fraud as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the value involved and the number of alleged incidents.
Insurance Fraud Without Aggravating Factors
Less than $300
- Class A misdemeanor
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Up to $2,500 in fines
$300 – $10,000
- Class 3 felony
- 2–5 years in prison
- Up to $25,000 in fines
$10,000 – $100,000
- Class 2 felony
- 3–7 years in prison
- Up to $25,000 in fines
More than $100,000
- Class 1 felony
- 4–15 years in prison
- Up to $25,000 in fines
Aggravated Insurance Fraud
If prosecutors allege three or more fraudulent acts within 18 months, the charge becomes Aggravated Insurance Fraud which is a Class 1 felony, regardless of the dollar amount. If authorities believe the conduct was part of a coordinated effort, conspiracy charges may also be added.
For a free legal consultation with a Criminal Defense lawyer serving the Chicagoland area, call (312) 344-3340.
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Frequently asked questions
Get clear answers to common questions about insurance fraud charges in Chicago and throughout Illinois.
Can I be charged with insurance fraud even if the claim wasn’t paid?
Yes, Illinois law does not require a payout simply submitting or attempting to submit a false claim can result in felony charges.
What if the error on my claim was accidental?
Accidents and misunderstandings do occur. If you did not intentionally provide false information, Kovacevic Law can argue lack of intent, which is a critical element of the crime.
Can insurance fraud be charged at the federal level?
Yes, if the case involves interstate activity, government programs, mail fraud, or wire fraud, federal authorities may get involved. Kovacevic Law is equipped to handle both state and federal investigations.
Will my prior record affect the charges?
Absolutely. Prosecutors often enhance insurance fraud charges when a defendant has prior fraud-related convictions, increasing the severity of potential penalties.
Should I speak to investigators before hiring a lawyer?
Nom Insurance investigators and law enforcement officers can use your statements to build a stronger case. Always contact Kovacevic Law before answering any questions.