Fraud Criminal Defense Attorney In Amarillo

Facing Texas Fraud Charges & Unsure Where To Turn

Being accused of fraud can turn your life upside down. One day, you are going about your work and family routine, and the next, you may be contacted by investigators, served with a warrant, or arrested. Serious financial crime accusations threaten your freedom, your record, and your reputation in the community.

If you are under investigation or charged with a fraud-related offense in or around Amarillo, Law Offices of D. Chris Hesse is here to defend you. We focus on criminal defense, and we work with people who suddenly find themselves pulled into the Texas criminal justice system over alleged financial or deception-related conduct. Our goal is to protect your rights and guide you through every stage of the case so you can make informed decisions instead of reacting out of fear.

Our office is based in Amarillo, and Attorney D. Chris Hesse appears in criminal courts that serve Potter and Randall Counties. As a former Marine and former prosecutor, he brings discipline, courtroom experience, and insight into how the state builds fraud cases. When you contact us, you speak with the lawyer who will handle your case, and you receive candid advice about where you stand and what comes next.

Call Law Offices of D. Chris Hesse today at (806) 350-6785 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our fraud defense lawyer in Amarillo.

Why Choose Our Firm For Fraud Criminal Defense

When you are deciding whom to trust with your future, you need more than a name on a door. You need a fraud crime defense lawyer Amarillo residents can rely on to show up, analyze evidence carefully, and stand beside them in court. At Law Offices of D. Chris Hesse, your case is handled personally by Attorney D. Chris Hesse, not passed down a line of staff or unknown attorneys.

Mr. Hesse’s background shapes the way we approach fraud criminal defense Amarillo clients depend on. His service as a Marine taught him persistence, attention to detail, and the ability to stay steady when the pressure is high. Those qualities matter when your liberty and livelihood are at stake, and the state may be presenting thousands of pages of records to support its version of events.

Before building a defense practice, Mr. Hesse worked as a prosecutor. That experience gives him a practical understanding of how charging decisions are made in fraud and financial crime cases, which evidence tends to carry the most weight with the state, and where weaknesses in a case may appear. We use that perspective to anticipate how the prosecution may approach your matter and to prepare targeted responses.

We also bring a strong focus on evidence. Mr. Hesse holds certification in forensic chromatography, which reflects his training in reading and challenging forensic reports. Fraud cases often hinge on technical details in bank statements, accounting records, and digital logs. We apply the same critical eye to those materials that we do when examining forensic testing, and we work to spot inconsistencies and gaps that the state may overlook.

Throughout the process, you work directly with Mr. Hesse. We emphasize direct and continuous communication because we know you will have urgent questions about what to say, what not to say, and what each court date means. Our firm strives to provide high-quality defense at competitive rates, and we discuss fees and expected stages of the case with you up front so you know what to expect.

Common Fraud Charges In Texas Courts

People come to us with many different types of allegations, and often they are not sure exactly what statute they are accused of violating. In Texas, fraud is a broad concept that can cover a wide range of charges, from relatively low-dollar allegations to complex, long-running schemes. Understanding the nature of your charge is a first step in planning a defense.

Some common categories of fraud-related accusations in Texas courts include cases based on the use of credit or debit cards, allegations involving forged or altered checks, and claims that someone used another person’s identifying information to obtain money, goods, or services. Other matters arise from disputes with insurance companies, contested business transactions, or disagreements about how funds were handled inside a company or organization. The exact charge, such as a particular offense level or statute, affects the potential range of punishment and other consequences you may face.

These cases often involve complex financial records, email or message threads, and differing stories about what was promised or agreed to. Sometimes, a situation that began as a civil dispute or contract disagreement ends up referred to law enforcement for possible criminal investigation. Whether the amount involved is small or large, any fraud allegation can have a serious long-term impact, so it is important to speak with a lawyer promptly and avoid trying to explain things to investigators on your own.

How Fraud Investigations & Prosecutions Work

Many clients first learn about a fraud investigation from a call by an investigator, a visit at home or work, or a notice from a bank or employer. In some situations, an alleged victim, business partner, or financial institution contacts local law enforcement or a state agency. Investigators may then begin collecting bank statements, account records, employment files, and other documents, and they may request an interview with you.

Typically, if authorities believe there is probable cause, they may seek an arrest warrant or a summons for you to appear in a criminal court serving Amarillo and the surrounding counties. From there, the case may move through arraignment, bond hearings, pretrial settings, negotiations, and, if necessary, trial. Each stage can affect what options remain available later, which is why early advice from a criminal defense lawyer can be valuable.

Investigators and prosecutors often want to hear your side of the story, but what you say can be used against you. It is common for people to believe that if they just explain the misunderstanding, the problem will go away. In reality, statements made during an investigation often become part of the state’s case. We encourage clients to consult with us before speaking with investigators, so we can help decide when, if, and how to communicate.

Because Mr. Hesse previously worked as a prosecutor, he understands how agencies build fraud cases and present them to judges and juries. He knows that charging decisions are influenced by factors such as the amount of alleged loss, the type of victim, the strength of available documents, and the anticipated testimony of witnesses. We use that knowledge to evaluate the situation early, identify potential weaknesses in the state’s theory, and begin preparing a defense strategy tailored to your circumstances.

Evidence In Fraud Cases & How We Build A Defense

Fraud cases often turn on paper and electronic trails. Bank records, wire transfers, credit card statements, invoices, ledgers, email threads, text messages, and online account logs can all be part of the state’s story. Witnesses, such as coworkers, business partners, or customers, may also provide statements that law enforcement believes support an allegation of deception or misuse of funds.

It is important to remember that records only show part of the picture, and that different people may interpret the same document very differently. An entry in an accounting system could reflect an honest mistake, a misunderstanding about how to record a transaction, or a dispute about ownership of funds, not necessarily a crime. Messages may appear incriminating when taken out of context or combined with assumptions about what people meant.

In building a defense, we look at how each piece of evidence was obtained, whether proper procedures were followed for searches and seizures, and whether there are gaps or inconsistencies in the record. We examine whether investigators have overlooked materials that support your explanation, such as contracts, emails, or other documents that show your understanding of events. When appropriate, we explore whether an alleged misstatement was truly intentional or whether it reflects confusion, reliance on others, or simple error.

Mr. Hesse’s certification in forensic chromatography reflects his background in evaluating technical data and challenging the way forensic results are presented. That training reinforces a methodical approach to evidence in fraud cases. We work to analyze records carefully, ask hard questions about the conclusions the state wants to draw, and look for alternative explanations that fit the facts. Throughout, we remain focused on upholding your constitutional protections, including your rights regarding searches, seizures, and statements.

Potential Consequences Of A Fraud Conviction

When people think about criminal cases, they often focus first on jail or prison time. Those are real risks in many fraud matters, particularly when the alleged loss is significant or when the case involves certain types of victims. Sentences can also include fines, probation, and orders to pay restitution to alleged victims, and the specific range of punishment depends on the charge and the facts of the case.

The long term impact of a fraud conviction, however, often reaches far beyond any time spent in custody. Offenses that involve dishonesty or financial misconduct can affect current employment and future job opportunities, especially in fields that require handling money, accessing sensitive information, or maintaining a professional license. Landlords, lenders, and others may also consider these records when making decisions.

For some people, a fraud conviction can raise issues with licensing boards, regulatory bodies, or, in certain situations, immigration authorities. While the effect in any individual case depends on many factors, including the specific offense and a person’s background, the risk of collateral consequences is one reason to take these allegations seriously. Our role as your attorney is to work toward outcomes that reduce or avoid these impacts where possible by challenging evidence, negotiating when appropriate, and preparing for trial if necessary.

What To Do If You Are Accused Of Fraud

In the first hours or days after learning about a fraud accusation, the choices you make can influence how your case unfolds. It is natural to want to explain yourself to an investigator, employer, or person who has raised concerns. However, speaking without legal advice can create statements that are difficult to take back later.

Here are practical steps to help protect yourself:

• Stay calm and avoid discussing details of the situation with anyone other than your attorney. Even casual comments to coworkers, friends, or on social media can be misinterpreted or repeated.
• Do not delete, destroy, or alter documents, emails, messages, or financial records. Changing records can create additional problems and may be viewed negatively by investigators and courts.
• Gather and preserve documents that may help explain your side of the story, such as contracts, correspondence, and relevant financial statements, and keep them in a secure place so you can review them with your lawyer.
• Write down a timeline of key events while your memory is fresh, including dates, amounts, who was involved, and what was discussed, so that you and your attorney have a clear starting point.
• Contact a fraud lawyer Amarillo residents can consult for guidance, and schedule a confidential meeting to review what has happened and what may come next.

When you reach out to Law Offices of D. Chris Hesse, we review your situation with you and talk through your options. We explain the risks of speaking to investigators without counsel, help you prepare for any upcoming court dates, and start evaluating the evidence you know about. Our goal in these early stages is to stabilize the situation and give you a clear plan instead of leaving you to guess at your next move.

How Our Amarillo Defense Firm Works With You

Choosing a fraud criminal defense attorney in Amarillo that clients can trust is not only about legal knowledge. It is also about how that lawyer works with you day to day. At Law Offices of D. Chris Hesse, we emphasize direct attorney involvement from the first consultation through the resolution of your case.

When you hire us, you work directly with Attorney D. Chris Hesse. He speaks with you about your concerns, reviews documents with you, and appears with you in court. Our firm values direct and continuous communication, so we strive to return calls, answer questions, and keep you informed about each court setting and development in your case. We know that uncertainty about what is happening can make a stressful situation even harder, and we work to avoid leaving clients in the dark.

Because we are based in Amarillo, we are familiar with the criminal courts that serve Potter and Randall Counties, as well as the local procedures those courts follow. That local knowledge can help us manage deadlines, understand how certain issues are typically handled, and prepare you for what to expect when you walk into a courtroom here. While every judge and prosecutor is different, experience in the local system can make the process more predictable for you.

We understand that cost is a real concern. Our firm strives to offer high-quality defense at competitive rates, and we discuss fees and anticipated work with you in a straightforward way. Each fraud case is unique, so we look at the complexity of the allegations, the volume of evidence, and your goals before outlining a fee structure. Throughout the representation, we tailor our strategy to your circumstances, whether that means focusing on negotiations, litigating pretrial issues, or preparing for trial.

Frequently Asked Questions

I Have Been Contacted About Fraud. Should I Talk To Investigators?

In most situations, you should speak with an attorney before talking to investigators about a fraud allegation. What feels like a casual explanation can become a key part of the government’s case, and investigators are trained to ask questions in ways that may lead to statements that sound damaging when repeated in court. Once you make a statement, it is difficult to undo the impression it leaves.

When you contact our firm, we review the situation with you and help decide how to respond. Sometimes it may be appropriate for us to communicate with investigators on your behalf, and in other situations, we may advise that you exercise your right to remain silent. Because Attorney Hesse previously worked as a prosecutor, he understands how investigators prepare for interviews and how they intend to use your words later. Our role is to help you avoid unnecessary risks and protect your constitutional rights.

What Are The Possible Penalties For A Fraud Conviction In Texas?

The possible penalties for a fraud conviction in Texas depend on the specific charge, the amount of alleged loss, and your prior record. Some fraud-related offenses may be filed as misdemeanors, carrying the possibility of up to a year in a county jail, fines, or probation. Others may be charged as felonies, where potential punishment can include significant prison time, higher fines, and restitution orders.

Beyond formal sentencing, a conviction for a crime involving dishonesty or financial misconduct can affect employment, professional licenses, and other aspects of your life. Licensing boards, employers, and others often take these records into account when making decisions. When we evaluate your case, we look not only at the statute and potential punishment range, but also at the broader impact a conviction may have on your future. Our goal is to work toward outcomes that limit those consequences where the facts and law allow.

How Will You Keep Me Informed About My Fraud Case?

We place a strong emphasis on direct and continuous communication with our clients. When you hire Law Offices of D. Chris Hesse, you work directly with Attorney D. Chris Hesse, and he is the person who will explain your options, discuss strategy, and prepare you for court dates. You are not left to navigate major decisions through staff alone.

We strive to keep you informed about upcoming hearings, filing deadlines, and any offers or motions that may affect your case. That communication may include phone calls, emails, and in-person meetings, depending on what works best for your situation. Our aim is for you to understand what is happening and why, so you can participate meaningfully in decisions about your defense. Many clients tell us that knowing what to expect at each step reduces their anxiety and helps them focus on daily life while the case is pending.

Have You Handled Fraud & Financial Crime Cases Before?

Our practice focuses on criminal defense, and we work with clients who face a variety of fraud and financial crime allegations. These cases often involve large volumes of documents, detailed timelines, and contested interpretations of financial records. That kind of work fits well with our evidence-centered approach and Attorney Hesse’s background in dealing with complex materials.

His prior experience as a prosecutor also gives him perspective on how the state typically builds and evaluates fraud cases. He understands which types of documents and testimony may carry the most weight with prosecutors and judges, and where disputes about intent or interpretation often arise. When we take on a fraud case, we apply that knowledge to examine the state’s theory, identify potential issues with proof, and develop defense strategies tailored to the specific facts.

What Should I Bring To A Consultation About Fraud Charges?

For a productive consultation, it helps to bring any documents you have already received about the case. That may include a copy of the complaint or charging document, any letters or notices from law enforcement, your employer, or a financial institution, and any paperwork related to searches or seizures that have occurred. If you have already appeared in court, documents listing your next court date and bond conditions are also useful.

You may also want to gather key contracts, emails, or financial records that you believe relate to the accusation, along with a written timeline of important events. During the consultation, we review what you bring, ask questions to clarify the situation, and talk through potential next steps. If there are additional records we need, we can discuss ways to obtain them. The more information we have early on, the better we can assess your options.

How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Fraud Defense Lawyer?

The cost of hiring a fraud attorney Amarillo residents can rely on depends on factors such as the nature of the charges, the amount of evidence to review, and whether the case appears likely to resolve through negotiation or proceed to contested hearings or trial. Fraud cases that involve extensive financial records or multiple alleged victims often require more time and analysis than simpler matters.

At Law Offices of D. Chris Hesse, we strive to provide high-quality defense at competitive rates. During your initial consultation, we discuss the basics of your case and then outline a fee structure that reflects the anticipated work. We are upfront about costs, and we welcome questions about how fees are calculated and what work is included. Our goal is for you to understand the financial side of the representation before you decide how to move forward.

Can A Fraud Charge In Amarillo Affect My Professional License?

A fraud charge or conviction can affect some professional licenses, particularly in fields where trust, handling money, or access to sensitive information is central to the work. Licensing boards and regulatory agencies often consider both the type of offense and the facts of the case when deciding whether to grant, renew, or discipline a license. The specific impact varies by profession and by the rules of the licensing body involved.

If you hold a professional license and are facing a fraud allegation filed here, it is important to tell your criminal defense lawyer about your license and any regulatory deadlines you may have. While our role is focused on the criminal case, we are mindful of these collateral issues when advising you about options. In many situations, the outcome of the criminal matter can significantly influence how a licensing board responds. We work to factor these concerns into our strategy so you can make informed choices about both your legal and professional future.

Talk To A Fraud Defense Lawyer About Your Case

You do not have to face a fraud investigation or charge alone. A knowledgeable fraud lawyer in Amarillo that residents can call for guidance can help you understand what the state must prove, how the evidence may be challenged, and what options may be available to protect your record and your future. Early action can make a real difference in how your case develops.

At Law Offices of D. Chris Hesse, we provide personalized criminal defense, direct access to Attorney D. Chris Hesse, and a disciplined approach to analyzing complex evidence. We take the time to listen to your concerns, explain the process in clear terms, and outline a plan so you are not left guessing about your next step. During a confidential consultation, we discuss both strategy and fees so you know what to expect before deciding how to proceed.

To talk with a defense lawyer about your fraud case, call (806) 350-6785 today.