Fraud charges can already be damaging—but when the State of Florida accuses someone of an organized scheme to defraud, the stakes are even higher. This offense involves a pattern of criminal behavior and can carry harsh felony penalties, even if the total amount stolen is relatively small.

If you or someone you care about has been charged with an organized scheme to defraud, it’s critical to seek immediate legal representation. At Bozanic Law, we defend individuals accused of complex fraud crimes with focus, discretion, and powerful strategy.

What Is an Organized Scheme to Defraud?

Under Florida Statute § 817.034, an organized scheme to defraud is defined as:

“A systematic, ongoing course of conduct with intent to defraud one or more persons, or to obtain property by false or fraudulent pretenses, representations, or promises.”

This differs from a one-time theft or scam—it refers to repeated actions intended to deceive, often through:

• False identities
• Fake businesses or products
• Repeated online scams
• Fraudulent insurance or credit card claims
• Investment or real estate schemes
• Phishing emails, calls, or impersonation

What Are the Penalties for Organized Scheme to Defraud?

Florida divides these charges by the amount of financial loss involved:

Less than $300 – Misdemeanor

• Penalty: Up to 1 year in jail and/or $1,000 fine

$300 to under $20,000 – Third-Degree Felony

• Penalty: Up to 5 years in prison and/or $5,000 fine

$20,000 to under $50,000 – Second-Degree Felony

• Penalty: Up to 15 years in prison and/or $10,000 fine

$50,000 or more – First-Degree Felony

• Penalty: Up to 30 years in prison and/or $10,000 fine

In addition to prison time and fines, a conviction can result in:

• Restitution to victims
• Loss of professional licenses
• Damage to your credit, business, or reputation
• Felony record impacting future employment

Why These Charges Are Dangerous

Unlike a single theft, this charge implies a pattern of dishonesty, which prosecutors often use to:

• Justify higher sentencing
• Add multiple fraud charges for the same conduct
• Freeze your assets or seize property under civil forfeiture laws
• Pressure co-defendants to testify against each other

Prosecutors will attempt to paint a picture of manipulation and long-term deception. That’s why it’s essential to have a defense that tells your side of the story.

Defenses to Organized Scheme to Defraud

At Bozanic Law, we take a comprehensive approach to white collar defense. Some common strategies include:

• Lack of intent – Honest mistake or poor business decision, not criminal fraud
• No ongoing scheme – Isolated event rather than systematic conduct
• Misidentification – False accusations, misused identity, or misunderstanding
• Insufficient evidence – Gaps in records, unclear communications, or no financial loss
• Entrapment – Law enforcement initiated or encouraged illegal conduct

We often work with forensic accountants, digital analysts, and business professionals to carefully dismantle the prosecution’s narrative.

What to Do If You’re Accused

• Do not speak to investigators or victims without your attorney.
• Avoid deleting emails, texts, or financial records.
• Preserve communications that show your intent was not criminal.
• Do not try to repay money or “make things right” without legal advice.
• Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately.

White collar charges are not minor. Even for first-time offenders, the long-term impact can be devastating without proper representation.

Why Choose Bozanic Law?

Bozanic Law understands the complexity and sensitivity of fraud charges. With a deep knowledge of both criminal and financial law, she fights back strategically—protecting your freedom, your record, and your reputation.

Whether you’re facing accusations based on a misunderstanding or part of a broader investigation, we provide discreet, aggressive legal defense.

No Panic, Call Bozanic!.

If you've been charged with or are under investigation for an organized scheme to defraud in Florida, now is the time to act. Let Bozanic Law guide you through the storm with clarity and conviction.

📍 Bozanic Law — 17100 Royal Palm Blvd., Suite 1, Weston, FL 33326
📞 Call 954-800-2864 now for a private consultation.
📧 Your defense starts today.

No Panic, Call Bozanic!