Business Fraud

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In business, trust is everything. Contracts, partnerships, and transactions all depend on the understanding that each party will act honestly and in good faith. But when fraud enters the picture, that trust is shattered. Business fraud isn’t just about broken promises—it’s about deliberate deception designed to create unfair advantage and cause harm. The consequences can be devastating, leading to lost revenue, reputational damage, and years of financial recovery.

Fraud can take many forms. Sometimes it’s subtle—concealing critical information in a deal, exaggerating facts to secure an agreement, or quietly misusing company assets. Other times, it’s blatant—false advertising, theft of trade secrets, or deliberate misrepresentation in business negotiations. No matter the form, the result is the same: one party suffers substantial harm while the other unjustly benefits.

At Timothy D. McGonigle, PC, we provide aggressive and strategic representation in business fraud disputes across California. Whether you’ve been the victim of fraud and need to recover damages, or you’ve been accused of fraudulent conduct and need a strong defense, we have the courtroom experience and resources to protect your interests. With over 40 years of trial practice, Timothy understands the complexities of these cases and knows how to cut through the deception to uncover the truth.

Types of Business Fraud Cases We Handle

Our firm has represented clients in a wide range of fraud disputes, including:

• Misrepresentation: When one party makes false statements—whether deliberate or negligent—that another relies on in making business decisions. This can occur during negotiations, contract execution, or financial disclosures.
  
  

• Failure to Disclose Material Information: Withholding crucial facts in a transaction, merger, or partnership can amount to fraud, especially when the hidden information would have changed the deal’s outcome.
  
  

• False Advertising: Businesses that exaggerate or fabricate claims to gain customers or market share may face fraud claims for misleading consumers or competitors.
  
  

• Breach of Contract with Fraudulent Intent: Sometimes, a simple contract dispute escalates into fraud when it’s clear one party never intended to perform their obligations in the first place.
  
  

• Misappropriation of Trade Secrets: Stealing or unlawfully sharing confidential business information, processes, or customer lists is one of the most damaging forms of fraud, often leading to millions in lost value.
  
  

Unlike standard business disputes, fraud cases often involve a heightened level of proof and complexity. They require not just legal knowledge, but also forensic investigation, document review, and the ability to untangle financial and contractual details. Our firm has the resources to do exactly that—digging deep into the facts and exposing the truth behind the deception.

A Proven Advocate in Business Fraud Disputes

With over four decades of legal experience, Timothy McGonigle has built a respected reputation in California courts by representing both plaintiffs and defendants in fraud litigation. This dual perspective allows him to anticipate the strategies of the opposing side, strengthening his clients’ positions. He has successfully recovered damages for businesses defrauded by partners, vendors, and competitors, and he has defended companies wrongly accused of fraudulent conduct.

Every fraud case is different, but one principle remains the same: the truth will eventually come to light. Timothy’s role is to ensure it happens in the courtroom—and that his clients are protected when it does.

Strategic Legal Representation You Can Trust

Business fraud claims are high-stakes by nature. They involve not just money, but credibility, reputation, and often the survival of a business itself. Timothy approaches every case with the seriousness it deserves—combining meticulous investigation, sharp legal analysis, and powerful advocacy in court.

If you believe you have been the victim of fraud—or if your business is facing accusations—you need experienced counsel immediately. The sooner you act, the stronger your position will be.

👉 Contact our Los Angeles law office today to schedule a confidential consultation with a California business fraud lawyer who knows how to uncover the truth and fight for your best outcome.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Business Fraud

Q1: What qualifies as business fraud in California?
Business fraud occurs when one party intentionally deceives another in order to gain an unfair advantage. This can include misrepresentation, concealment of material facts, false advertising, or misuse of trade secrets.

Q2: How do I prove business fraud?
Fraud cases require showing that a false statement or omission was made, that it was intentional or negligent, that you relied on it, and that it caused you harm. Strong evidence—documents, communications, witness testimony—can make all the difference.

Q3: What damages can I recover in a business fraud case?
Victims of fraud may recover compensatory damages for financial losses, consequential damages for related harm (like lost business opportunities), and in some cases punitive damages if the fraud was intentional and malicious.

Q4: What if I’m accused of fraud but did nothing wrong?
False accusations are serious and can threaten your reputation and business. We defend clients by challenging the allegations, exposing weak evidence, and showing that there was no intent to deceive.

Q5: How is business fraud different from breach of contract?
Breach of contract involves failing to meet an agreement’s terms, while fraud involves intentional deceit. In some cases, a contract dispute escalates into fraud if it’s clear one party never intended to perform their obligations.

Q6: Can business fraud be both civil and criminal?
Yes. Some cases lead to civil lawsuits for damages, while others may involve criminal charges if the conduct violated state or federal fraud laws. We focus on civil litigation but are experienced in coordinating with criminal defense where necessary.

Q7: What industries face the most fraud cases?
Fraud can occur in any industry, but we frequently see cases in real estate, finance, technology, healthcare, and professional partnerships. Trade secret theft is especially common in competitive markets.

Q8: How long do I have to file a fraud claim in California?
Generally, the statute of limitations for fraud is three years from the date the fraud was discovered or should have been discovered. Acting quickly helps preserve evidence and strengthen your case.

Q9: Can fraud be proven without a written contract?
Yes. Fraud often involves verbal misrepresentations, hidden facts, or deceptive conduct. Written agreements help, but they aren’t required to pursue a fraud claim.

Q10: How do I know if I have a strong business fraud case?
The best way is to consult an experienced business fraud lawyer. Timothy McGonigle will review the facts, the evidence, and the damages you’ve suffered to determine your options and build a tailored strategy.