So, you’ve received that dreaded SNAP violation letter from the USDA. Your heart sinks, your palms get sweaty, and a million thoughts race through your mind. “What did I do wrong? How will this impact my business? Can I fight this?”Take a deep breath. We’re here to walk you through the process and help you understand what’s happening and what your next steps should be.At Spodek Law Group, we’ve handled hundreds of SNAP violation cases nationwide, so we understand the nuances of these cases and know how to fight for you. But first, let’s start with the basics.

What is a SNAP Violation?

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), provides food assistance to millions of low-income Americans. However, the program has strict rules and regulations that must be followed. A SNAP violation occurs when an individual or business fails to comply with these rules.1Common SNAP violations include:

Trafficking SNAP benefits (selling them for cash)
Lying on a SNAP application
Allowing SNAP recipients to purchase ineligible items
Continuing to accept SNAP benefits after being disqualified from the program

These violations are taken seriously by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), which oversees the SNAP program. Penalties can range from temporary disqualification to hefty fines and even criminal charges.2

Why You Need a SNAP Violation Lawyer

Facing a SNAP violation charge can be daunting, especially for small business owners who rely on SNAP transactions for a significant portion of their revenue. That’s why it’s crucial to have an experienced SNAP violation lawyer on your side.At Spodek Law Group, our attorneys have a deep understanding of the SNAP program and the laws surrounding it. We know how to navigate the complex legal system, and we’ll fight tirelessly to protect your rights.

Our Approach

When you hire us, we’ll start by thoroughly reviewing your case. We’ll analyze the charges against you and gather all the necessary evidence to build a strong defense.Our attorneys will respond to the charge letter in writing, and we’ll work with you to develop a comprehensive strategy. We’ll highlight any regulations you’ve followed and any training you’ve provided to your employees.If your case goes to a hearing, we’ll be by your side every step of the way. We’ll present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and make sure your side of the story is heard.At Spodek Law Group, we’re not just lawyers, we’re advocates for our clients. We understand the stress and uncertainty that comes with facing a SNAP violation charge, and we’re here to guide you through it.Our attorneys have a proven track record of success in handling SNAP violation cases. We’ve helped countless clients avoid disqualification and minimize fines through our aggressive and strategic approach.But it’s not just about winning cases, it’s about providing exceptional service and building lasting relationships with our clients. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and address your concerns.

Time is of the Essence

If you’ve received a SNAP violation charge, time is of the essence. You only have 10 days to respond to the charge letter, so it’s crucial to act quickly.3Contact Spodek Law Group today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case and provide you with a clear understanding of your options and the potential consequences you’re facing.Remember, you don’t have to face this alone. With Spodek Law Group on your side, you’ll have a team of experienced attorneys fighting for your rights and your livelihood.

The SNAP Violation Process: What You Need to Know

Okay, so you’ve received that dreaded SNAP violation letter from the USDA. Your heart sinks, your palms get sweaty, and a million thoughts race through your mind. “What did I do wrong? How will this impact my business? Can I fight this?”But, take a deep breath. We’re here to walk you through the process and help you understand what’s happening and what your next steps should be.

Proving Fraud

For a SNAP violation charge to result in serious penalties, the USDA must prove that you intentionally committed fraud. This is no easy task, and it’s where having an experienced SNAP violation lawyer can make all the difference.Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate the allegations against you and gather evidence to support your defense. We’ll look for any inconsistencies or weaknesses in the USDA’s case, and we’ll work to cast doubt on their claims of intentional fraud.

The Investigation Process

The USDA’s investigation process is often flawed, and they may rely on faulty evidence or make assumptions that aren’t supported by the facts. Our attorneys will scrutinize every aspect of the investigation, from the initial complaint to the undercover operations.We’ll look for any violations of your rights or any instances where the USDA overstepped its authority. If we find any irregularities, we’ll use them to challenge the validity of the investigation and the charges against you.

Building a Solid Defense

At Spodek Law Group, we understand that every case is unique, and we’ll tailor our defense strategy to the specific circumstances of your situation. We’ll work closely with you to understand the intricacies of your business operations and any mitigating factors that may have contributed to the alleged violations.Our attorneys will explore every possible defense, including:

Spodek Law Group, P.C. - NYC Criminal Attorneys

5.0

Based on 745 reviews

George Fernandez

14:16 30 Apr 24

Excellent 10 out of 10, Helped resolve my case. Jeremy explained everything and made everything easy to understand.

Raj

21:33 24 Apr 24

If you are looking for a lawyer that listens, is aggressive where needed, and holds his word above all else, Todd is the best pick. I had hired multiple attorneys prior to hiring the Spodek Group for a white collar case. The first thing that stood out to me was the cost, as anyone going through the process and dealing with the system, money was tight at that time - especially after hiring and firing multiple lawyers. The cost was not as high as others which was definitely a plus. Todd's intake process was also unlike other attorneys. He took the time to actually listen. He cared. He was trying to put himself in my shoes while I was explaining the situation to him and he really took the time to understand the whole situation. Other lawyers will give you 15 mins and send you a retainer agreement. Not Todd, I think he spent almost two hours with me as I was explaining everything.Not only was he great during the onboarding process, he was supportive and very informative through the entire plea process and eventually sentencing. After hiring him, I asked if I should hire a prison consultant, he told me to save my money as he would do everything they would. He was right and held up to his word. Later on I would hear from others that went with the prison consultants that they were a waste of money - I am glad I listened to Todd!When it came time for sentencing, two days prior to sentencing, the prosecutor tried increasing my proposed prison time by almost double - apparently a normal move. Todd and his team worked with me non-stop through the weekend prior to sentencing to ensure that I was not given additional prison time. Again, he took the time to listen and came up with a strategy to explain the case with great detail.Unfortunately, I did plead guilty as that was my best option. Todd and his whole team wrote up nearly 300 pages of a summary of what happened and why I should not be given prison time. If I breakdown the amount I spent with Todd versus the amount of work that I saw being done, I am shocked I was not charged four times as much. The other benefit was, a lot of criminal defense lawyers were just a single attorney with a paralegal or two. Todd had a team of people that I dealt with (5-7 people that I interacted with), but he was ALWAYS accessible. It would never take him more than an hour to reply unless he was in court.I was sentenced to prison and I was emotionally distraught. Todd and his team did whatever they could even after sentencing to make sure I was alright. He personally stayed in touch with my family to ensure I was doing alright and offered support to them. Most lawyers would consider the job complete at sentencing, not Todd.After prison, Todd still spent time with me to make sure I was on the right track and avoiding any potential risks in the future. He has also been giving advice on how to navigate probation etc and has not been looking at the clock for billing.Although I wish I had never been arrested in the first place, I am glad I had Todd and his team in my corner. Without them I likely would have had to spend a lot more time in prison than I did.Thank you, Todd, and the entire Spodek Law team, for helping turn what was a nightmare into a manageable situation!

Yelva Saint-Preux

19:26 19 Apr 24

I am immensely grateful to the entire team at Spodek Law Group for their unwavering dedication and exceptional expertise throughout my case. From our initial consultation to the final resolution, their professionalism and tireless advocacy made all the difference. Their strategic approach and attention to detail instilled confidence in me every step of the way.Thanks to their hard work and commitment, we achieved a truly favorable outcome that exceeded my expectations. Not only did they navigate the complexities of my case with precision, but they also provided invaluable support and guidance during what was undoubtedly a challenging time. I cannot recommend Spodek Law Group highly enough, especially attorneys Todd Spodek and Claire Banks; they are beacons of excellence in the legal profession.YSP.

Katherine Sun

18:08 18 Apr 24

my lawyer is Alex Zhik. Efficient, patient and professional

Nun ya

17:48 18 Apr 24

Todd, Ralph and Alex are amazing. Helped my husband get from a double digit number with multiple charges to a single digit, by the time I blink he will be out. They very professional and help with all your needs. They dealt with my anxiety and worry very well and they understand that your family member needs to get home as soon as possible.

Keisha Parris

20:45 15 Mar 24

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

16:26 15 Mar 24

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence.Thank you team!

K Mar

01:37 25 Jan 24

I recently had Spodek Law Group represent me for a legal matter in NYC and I am thoroughly impressed with their services.Alex Zhik secured the best possible outcome for my case.It was a seamless journey from the initial consultation to the resolution of my legal matter. From the moment I spoke to Todd about my case, his enthusiasm to help was evident, setting a positive tone for the entire experience. The efficiency and professionalism displayed by the team is commendable.A particularly noteworthy aspect of their service is their user-friendly portal to upload your documents/evidence. This not only simplified the process, but showcases their commitment to streamline the client experience.Lastly, in an industry where legal fees can often be a concern, I found their pricing to be very reasonable, making needing legal assistance feel accessible and stress-free.I am grateful for their support and wouldn't hesitate to turn to them again in the future.

Lack of intent
Mistaken identity
Entrapment
Improper training or supervision of employees
Compliance with SNAP regulations

We’ll leave no stone unturned in our efforts to protect your rights and your livelihood.

Negotiating a Favorable Outcome

In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate a settlement with the USDA, avoiding a lengthy and costly legal battle. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators, and we’ll work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for you.Whether it’s a reduced penalty, a temporary disqualification instead of a permanent one, or even a complete dismissal of the charges, we’ll fight for the resolution that best serves your interests.

The Bottom Line

Facing a SNAP violation charge can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. But with Spodek Law Group on your side, you don’t have to face it alone.Our team of experienced SNAP violation attorneys will guide you through every step of the process, providing the aggressive and effective representation you need to protect your rights, your reputation, and your livelihood.Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step towards resolving your SNAP violation case.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I receive a SNAP trafficking charge letter from the USDA?

The first thing you should do is contact an experienced SNAP violation attorney. Our SNAP violation attorneys can help you understand the allegations against you, and they can help you develop a legal plan to respond and defend yourself and your grocery store.1In some situations, it might be possible to negotiate a settlement with the USDA, to avoid a hearing, and potentially reduce the penalties.

What are the potential penalties for SNAP violations?

The penalties for grocery store SNAP violations can be severe, depending on the nature and severity of the violation. Potential penalties include:

Temporary disqualification from the SNAP program
Permanent disqualification from the SNAP program
Civil money penalties (fines)
Criminal charges for severe violations, such as trafficking SNAP benefits2

How can I avoid SNAP violations in my grocery store?

To avoid SNAP violations, it’s essential to stay up-to-date on all the USDA rules and regulations surrounding SNAP. Provide thorough training to your employees on SNAP compliance, and implement strict policies and procedures to ensure that all transactions are handled properly.Additionally, maintain accurate records of all SNAP transactions, and conduct regular audits to identify and address any potential issues.

Can I continue to accept SNAP benefits while fighting a violation charge?

In some cases, it may be possible to continue accepting SNAP benefits while fighting a violation charge. However, this will depend on the specific circumstances of your case and the severity of the alleged violation.Our attorneys can advise you on the best course of action and help you navigate the process of continuing to accept SNAP benefits during the legal proceedings.

How long does the SNAP violation process take?

The length of the SNAP violation process can vary depending on the complexity of the case and whether it goes to an administrative hearing or judicial review. Some cases may be resolved within a few months, while others can take a year or more.Our attorneys will work diligently to resolve your case as quickly as possible, while ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the best possible outcome.

USDA SNAP Violation Attorneys: We Protect You

If you’re a grocery store that participates in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which is also known as food stamps, then you know how crucial it is to for you, your employees, and your grocery store, to comply with all the rules and regulations set by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). But, what happens when you’re accused of violating these rules? That’s where our USDA SNAP violation attorneys come in.At Spodek Law Group, we have a team of experienced USDA SNAP violation attorneys who are dedicated to protecting the rights and livelihoods of grocery store owners across the country. We understand the laws and regulations surrounding the SNAP program, and we know how to build strong defenses against even the most serious federal charges.If you’re facing a SNAP violation allegation, don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you contact our criminal defense attorneys, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome.Even if your team commits unintentional errors, it can result in violations and penalties for you, your grocery store, and other owners of the store. Because of this, it’s so important for retailers to stay up-to-date on all the USDA rules and regulations surrounding SNAP.Our SNAP violation attorneys have a track record of success in SNAP violation cases, and most importantly – we’re committed to providing aggressive, effective representation to each and every single client. Our team of lawyers will work tirelessly to investigate the SNAP charges against you, gather evidence to support your case, and develop a customized legal strategy tailored to the facts of your case and goals.

Real-Life Scenarios: When You Need a SNAP Violation Lawyer

To better understand the importance of having a skilled SNAP violation lawyer on your side, let’s explore some real-life scenarios that our attorneys have encountered:

Scenario 1: Undercover Operation Gone Wrong

Imagine you’re the owner of a small grocery store in a low-income neighborhood. Your store participates in the SNAP program, and you pride yourself on serving your community and providing access to affordable food.One day, you receive a SNAP violation letter from the USDA, alleging that your store has been involved in trafficking SNAP benefits. The letter states that undercover agents visited your store and witnessed employees exchanging SNAP benefits for cash.You’re shocked and confused because you’ve always trained your employees to follow the rules and regulations of the SNAP program. You know that trafficking SNAP benefits is illegal, and you’ve never condoned such behavior.This is where a SNAP violation lawyer can make all the difference. Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate the undercover operation, scrutinize the evidence, and look for any irregularities or violations of your rights.We’ll work to cast doubt on the USDA’s allegations and build a strong defense to protect your business and your livelihood.

Scenario 2: Employee Misconduct

In another scenario, let’s say you own a medium-sized grocery chain with multiple locations. One day, you receive a SNAP violation letter alleging that one of your employees has been allowing SNAP recipients to purchase ineligible items, such as alcohol or tobacco products.You’re dismayed because you’ve invested significant resources into training your employees and implementing strict policies to ensure SNAP compliance. However, it appears that one rogue employee has violated those policies, putting your entire business at risk.In this situation, our SNAP violation attorneys can help you take immediate action to address the employee misconduct and mitigate the potential consequences. We’ll work with you to gather evidence of your training programs and policies, demonstrating your good faith efforts to comply with SNAP regulations.Additionally, we’ll negotiate with the USDA to seek a favorable resolution, such as a temporary disqualification or a reduced penalty, rather than a permanent disqualification or criminal charges.

Scenario 3: Innocent Mistake or Misunderstanding

Sometimes, SNAP violations can arise from innocent mistakes or misunderstandings of the complex regulations. For example, let’s say you’re a new grocery store owner, and you inadvertently accepted SNAP benefits for a few ineligible items due to a lack of training or understanding of the rules.In this case, our SNAP violation lawyers can help you explain the circumstances and demonstrate that there was no intentional fraud or willful violation of the rules. We’ll work to negotiate a resolution that takes into account your good faith efforts and your commitment to complying with SNAP regulations moving forward.These scenarios illustrate the importance of having an experienced SNAP violation lawyer on your side. At Spodek Law Group, we understand the complexities of the SNAP program and the severe consequences that can result from violations. We’ll fight tirelessly to protect your rights, your business, and your livelihood.

The Bottom Line: Protecting Your Livelihood

Facing a SNAP violation charge can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Spodek Law Group, our team of experienced USDA SNAP violation attorneys is here to guide you through every step of the process.We understand the laws and regulations surrounding the SNAP program, and we know how to build strong defenses against even the most serious federal charges. Our attorneys have a proven track record of success in SNAP violation cases, and we’re committed to providing aggressive, effective representation to each and every single client.Don’t wait to seek legal help if you’re facing a SNAP violation allegation. The sooner you contact our criminal defense attorneys, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome.Remember, even if your team commits unintentional errors, it can result in violations and penalties for you, your grocery store, and other owners of the store. That’s why it’s so important to stay up-to-date on all the USDA rules and regulations surrounding SNAP, and to have a skilled legal team on your side.

Fort Worth USDA SNAP Violation Lawyers: Protecting Your Livelihood