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The Law Office Of Mark P. Rankin P.A.
877-620-0898
Attorney Mark P. Rankin sitting on courthouse steps

Providing Experienced And Steadfast Criminal Defense

Attorney Mark P. Rankin sitting on courthouse steps

Tampa Insurance Fraud Lawyer Protecting Your Interests

Allegations of insurance fraud can have far-reaching consequences, including felony charges, prison time and lasting financial damage. In Florida, prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively, especially when they involve large-dollar claims or alleged fraud against federal relief programs. Whether you’re under investigation or already facing charges, having an experienced Tampa insurance fraud lawyer on your side is critical.

At The Law Office of Mark P. Rankin, P.A., clients receive knowledgeable, hands-on representation tailored to the complex nature of financial and fraud-related cases. Attorney Mark Rankin defends individuals and businesses throughout Tampa and across Florida against a wide range of insurance-related fraud allegations, both at the state and federal levels.

What Is Insurance Fraud?

Insurance fraud occurs when someone intentionally submits misleading information or misrepresentation to an insurance company to obtain a benefit they are not entitled to. Fraud charges may arise from false statements, staged losses or inflated claims.

In many cases, individuals are charged with fraud even when the evidence is based on assumptions or errors in paperwork. These cases are often built over time, using audits, recorded statements or claims data. Because the law draws a hard line between honest mistakes and criminal intent, it’s vital to have a criminal defense attorney who knows how to challenge the government’s theory of the case.

Common Types Of Insurance Fraud Cases

Attorney Rankin defends clients facing a variety of insurance claim fraud allegations, including:

  • Health insurance fraud
  • Auto insurance fraud (staged accidents, inflated damage reports)
  • Homeowners insurance fraud (false claims, arson)
  • Life insurance fraud (false death claims or forged applications)
  • Disability insurance fraud (exaggerated or false disability claims)
  • Workers’ compensation fraud
  • Commercial property insurance fraud
  • Flood or disaster relief fraud
  • PPP loan fraud and COVID-19 relief fraud
  • Mortgage fraud
  • Bank fraud related to insured assets or loan misrepresentation

Many of these cases also involve federal charges, especially when the claim involves federal relief funds or affects a federally insured institution. Attorney Rankin has extensive experience handling complex white collar crimes and is prepared to represent clients in both Florida and federal courts.

How Insurance Fraud Investigations Begin

Investigations can start in different ways. Sometimes, an insurance company refers a claim to the state fraud bureau. Other times, banks or government agencies initiate audits or issue subpoenas based on suspicious patterns. The Department of Justice, the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security may also become involved, particularly in larger fraud schemes.

Attorney Rankin works quickly to protect his clients when an investigation is underway. He helps clients respond to subpoenas, prepares them for interviews and intervenes before formal charges are filed. If charges have already been filed, he develops a strong strategy based on a detailed review of the facts and applicable statutes.

What Are The Penalties For Insurance Fraud?

Insurance fraud can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the amount of money involved and whether the case is filed in state or federal court. Penalties may include:

  • Up to 30 years in prison (for large-scale federal fraud cases)
  • Fines, restitution and forfeiture of property
  • Probation and long-term supervision
  • Loss of professional licenses
  • Civil penalties and exclusion from government programs

The consequences of a conviction can affect your ability to work, secure housing or obtain loans, which is why every allegation should be taken seriously from the start.

Is Insurance Fraud A Serious Crime?

Yes. Insurance fraud is considered a serious offense in both Florida and federal courts. Prosecutors treat these cases as intentional acts of deception for financial gain. Even first-time offenders may face jail time, especially in cases involving federal disaster relief programs, commercial claims or large financial institutions.

What Are The Different Types Of Insurance Fraud?

Insurance fraud can involve many different forms of deception. Some common examples include:

  • Falsifying the value of stolen or damaged property
  • Submitting multiple claims for the same loss
  • Exaggerating injuries in a car accident
  • Using a fake identity to file claims
  • Misrepresenting employment status or income to receive benefits
  • Filing claims for events that never occurred
  • Lying on mortgage or PPP loan applications to secure coverage or funding

Even unintentional errors can be interpreted as fraud. The key issue in most cases is intent, and a knowledgeable attorney can help you push back against assumptions made by prosecutors or investigators.

Talk To A Tampa Insurance Fraud Lawyer Today

If you’re under investigation or have been charged with insurance fraud, you need a defense attorney who understands both the legal and financial sides of your case. The Law Office of Mark P. Rankin, P.A., provides experienced representation for clients facing insurance fraud, PPP loan fraud, mortgage fraud and other related charges across Florida.

Call 877-620-0898 or contact the firm online to schedule your free consultation. Attorney Rankin can meet with you in Tampa, St. Petersburg or Clearwater, or virtually if needed. Don’t wait until charges escalate. Get the legal guidance you need today.