It is common to rely on statements made by others. In fact, trusting others is an important feature of society. However sometimes, individuals or companies make false statements to people. In other situations, individuals or corporations choose to hide important facts from people. Sometimes, people are damaged by trusting false statements or false promises made by individuals or corporations. These individuals or corporations may be committing fraud.

Have you ever relied on someone else's statements only to find out later that they were untrue? Were you damaged by this reliance? If so, you may have a claim for fraud. Has someone hidden important facts from you that caused you to be injured? If so, you may have a claim for fraud. If you have been a victim of fraud, you have legal rights against these parties. Has anyone ever intentionally deceived you on an important fact or promise, which resulted in your injury? If so, you may have a claim for fraud.

There are four basic elements to a fraudulent misrepresentation

• A false statement/representation made to you (a lie)
• The representation made to you was about something material (something important that influenced your decision or induced you to take action)
• You relied upon that false representation in making your decision to act
• You were damaged as a result of your reliance on the false representation

There are also four basic elements to a fraudulent suppression

• A person/agent/salesman hid, concealed, or failed to disclose a material fact (something important that influenced your decision or induced you to take action)
• That person/agent/salesman had a duty to you to disclose this material fact
• That you chose to or were induced to act because of the person/agent/salesman's failure to disclose/inform you of this important fact
• You were damaged as a result of not knowing this important fact

Some common situations where fraud may occur include:

• Purchasing insurance

• Purchasing a house or automobile

• Obtaining a mortgage

• Employment agreements

• Other business deals

Fraud is a very serious offense. Individuals and corporations should be held accountable when they make false representations to trusting people. Additionally, individuals and corporations should not be allowed to hide important details when trying to convince people to act. Cole and Hodges have been involved in many civil cases involving fraud and are willing to discuss your situation with you. Cole and Hodges are willing to help.

IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW HAS BEEN DAMAGED BY FRAUD, DECEIT, OR MISREPRESENTATION CONTACT COLE AND HODGES ONLINE OR CALL US AT (888) 539-3110 TO SET UP A FREE CONSULTATION.