bluebluewindows
Junior Member
What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Oregon
I am being investigated for falsely claiming unemployment benefits. I just received the letter yesterday, and have been asked to call the investigator within a week. Of course I'm going to call, and of course I'm going to try and speak with an attorney before I do call. I don't want to unintentionally say something incriminating without getting some advice first. But I'd also like to get as much information possible, which is why I'm posting here. I'm a little wary of disclosing details here, as this is my first time posting, and not sure exactly how safe my information is, but let's say I didn't contest the charges (of willful misrepresentation), what are the consequences beyond financial restitution that are likely? The maximum amount I would be liable for is over $2000, with penalties adding up to $3000. If they determine that it is willful misrepresentation, and I do not try to lie or get out of it, is there a chance that they will be lenient and allow me to repay the $3000 in payments? I am only partially employed right now (most of the problem has to do with misreported earnings) and can barely pay rent, much less pay the fines. I'm not making any excuses, I'm just saying I can only pay what I am liable for once I actually have a job to do so. But I have never been in this situation before. I have no criminal record, never been in trouble with the law, never even got a speeding ticket in 20 plus years, so I am rather naive about what I'm facing. If I do have to pay it all now, how does the government get money from someone who has none? This is a real (non-rhetorical) question. I'm assuming they can, I just have no idea how. Also, am I facing potential jail time? I realize I may have to make restitution, but obviously I want to avoid jail time if at all possible.
Thank you in advance for your time, consideration and advice.
I am being investigated for falsely claiming unemployment benefits. I just received the letter yesterday, and have been asked to call the investigator within a week. Of course I'm going to call, and of course I'm going to try and speak with an attorney before I do call. I don't want to unintentionally say something incriminating without getting some advice first. But I'd also like to get as much information possible, which is why I'm posting here. I'm a little wary of disclosing details here, as this is my first time posting, and not sure exactly how safe my information is, but let's say I didn't contest the charges (of willful misrepresentation), what are the consequences beyond financial restitution that are likely? The maximum amount I would be liable for is over $2000, with penalties adding up to $3000. If they determine that it is willful misrepresentation, and I do not try to lie or get out of it, is there a chance that they will be lenient and allow me to repay the $3000 in payments? I am only partially employed right now (most of the problem has to do with misreported earnings) and can barely pay rent, much less pay the fines. I'm not making any excuses, I'm just saying I can only pay what I am liable for once I actually have a job to do so. But I have never been in this situation before. I have no criminal record, never been in trouble with the law, never even got a speeding ticket in 20 plus years, so I am rather naive about what I'm facing. If I do have to pay it all now, how does the government get money from someone who has none? This is a real (non-rhetorical) question. I'm assuming they can, I just have no idea how. Also, am I facing potential jail time? I realize I may have to make restitution, but obviously I want to avoid jail time if at all possible.
Thank you in advance for your time, consideration and advice.