The sentences for fraud vary depending on the severity of the offence and the harm caused to the claimant. Under sections 1 and 7 for example, the maximum penalty for this offence is 12-month imprisonment on summary on conviction and 10 years imprisonment on conviction on indictment. Consequently, you are advised to seek legal assistance, as these sentences in addition to the reputational damages caused, may have detrimental effects on your life.
Some of the factors taken into consideration by the judges when making a sentence include:
The offender’s contribution,
Harm caused,
Aggravating factors i.e.:
- The offence was racially or religiously aggravated,
- Failure to respond to previous sentences,
- An intention to commit more serious harm than intended,
- In an attempt to conceal or dispose of information,
- The deliberate targeting of vulnerable victims,
- Consideration for time spent on bail.
8.61