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Legal matters

Mumsnet has not checked the qualifications of anyone posting here. If you have any legal concerns we suggest you consult a solicitor.

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Original poster

Caught for Fraud and arrested yesterday

273 replies

debbieb1980 · 29/03/2018 09:17

No excuses as I was caught red handed doing something I really should not have been doing.

I have been wrongly claiming whilst working due to a lot of money issues and now need to face the consequences of my actions.

My recent past caught up with me late yesterday evening when I was arrested at my workplace just before finishing my shift, I then had to go to the police station and have been in there til an hour or so ago.

Scared I will now end up in prison though if I do I know it is self inflicted, looking for any advice.

OP posts:

Donthate · 29/03/2018 09:19

Have you got a solicitor? You need real legal advice. Good luck.

OffYouTrott · 29/03/2018 09:22

If you do, it won't be long

Original poster

debbieb1980 · 29/03/2018 09:23

I havent got a solicitor no, though I know I do need to speak to one.

OP posts:

DaphneduM · 29/03/2018 09:25

Yes, you do need a solicitor. Also do you have a parent or close friend that you can talk to? Have you actually been charged with anything?

Saz1995 · 29/03/2018 09:25

Get some legal advice asap!

Ivegotnothing · 29/03/2018 09:26

You need a solicitor. Pop straight down to the citizens advice bureau if you are unsure of the next steps. I don't have any experience of this, but I can't imagine a first offence would lead to jail, more likely a plan to repay what you owe and a suspended sentence? If you realise what you have done and be clear that you want to pay it back it should stand in your favour I think. Good luck.

lovemylover · 29/03/2018 09:26

I am sure you wont be the only one in this situation these days
People can barely manage to live on low wages and ridiculous benefit hashups these things wouldnt happen so much

LIZS · 29/03/2018 09:26

Did they not offer a duty solicitor?

Original poster

debbieb1980 · 29/03/2018 09:26

Yes I have been charged with Benefit fraud

OP posts:

Original poster

debbieb1980 · 29/03/2018 09:28

Yes I was offered a duty solicitor though decided against it at the time.

I wanted to just admit everything.

OP posts:

CheeseyToast · 29/03/2018 09:28

Oh dear. I don't know anything more than I've seen on TV but yes you need a lawyer. Also, don't give up hope. You might be able to put this right. The courts like to see defendants acknowledge wrongdoing, and work to make amends (rather than being forced to).

CheeseyToast · 29/03/2018 09:28

No no don't give up your right to duty solicitor, they can only help you

LIZS · 29/03/2018 09:30

Have you had earlier opportunities to admit this and continued to claim?

Ginorchoc · 29/03/2018 09:31

You should have accepted the duty solicitor. Have you got a Court date, if so ensure you ask for the duty solicitor there. It’s also untrue that you are unlikely to go to prison for first offence. The sum involved will have some factor.

Mc180768 · 29/03/2018 09:33

Oh dear.

Why do people think if they admit everything, they don't need a solicitor?

Has a hearing been set OP?

LyannaStarktheWolfMaid · 29/03/2018 09:33

You need to ask for a solicitor, it’s your legal right. It’s not a matter of admitting or denying guilt, it is their job to make sure that your rights are looked after.

Original poster

debbieb1980 · 29/03/2018 09:36

I will get a solicitor, now I have had time to reflect I know I need one.

Was just scared at being questioned in the police station and not really thinking straight.

I had thought about admitting this previously though was worried if I declared it they would have prosecuted anyway

OP posts:

Original poster

debbieb1980 · 29/03/2018 09:37

I will be advised of a court date in due course.

OP posts:

DaphneduM · 29/03/2018 09:40

I'm sure all is not lost. They certainly don't want to clog up prisons with people for minor financial misdeeds. It's certainly in your favour that you are regretful and recognise that your actions were wrong. You say you were arrested at work - so presumably this may impact on your job. Legal advice is definitely your priority, then you will know where you stand and what your options are.

WorraLiberty · 29/03/2018 09:43

Do they send the police for this sort of thing now?

I know they used to send a letter telling the person they needed to attend the Jobcentre for an interview under caution. They'd also advise the person brought a solicitor with them.

MeltSnow · 29/03/2018 09:43

Approx how much are we talking? It makes a difference, also what was the benefit?

MsGameandWatching · 29/03/2018 09:48

You were kept in jail overnight for working while claiming? How is this justified? I know a drink driver who breathalysed over the limit and was out in two hours. I know a man who committed repeated DV who was released in a matter of hours each time.

Get a solicitor ASAP. If you've previous good character and the sums aren't too much you are unlikely to go to prison.

Original poster

debbieb1980 · 29/03/2018 09:50

Just over £2,500

It is because I failed to disclose my correct household income.

OP posts:

LIZS · 29/03/2018 09:50

Were you also interviewed by dwp? Or is there more to your case?

Original poster

debbieb1980 · 29/03/2018 09:51

Yes I was detained overnight after being charged.

OP posts:

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