Grocery store usda violation Fresno

You Just Got Slapped With a USDA SNAP Violation Charge – Now What?

So, what do you do, if you get hit with one of these things? The letter from the USDA looks simple enough, but, take a deep breath – this is serious business. The agency isn‘t messing around, they want to disqualify or permanently disqualify your store from the SNAP program.It’s simple. Every single client deserves honesty and white glove service. Every single client should know what he, or she, potentially faces and what the outcome of their case could be – before hiring an attorney.There’s one reason you’re on this website: you’re looking for an elite law firm to handle your USDA SNAP violation case. We’re the Spodek Law Group, and we’re focused on providing the highest level of service and results for our clients.

Understanding the SNAP Violation Process

If the USDA suspects your grocery store violated SNAP rules, they‘ll launch an investigation. This can involve undercover shoppers, surveillance, auditing records – the whole nine yards.If they find evidence of violations, you’ll get that ominous charge letter outlining the allegations against you and your store. But, you only have a limited window to respond and request a hearing.Sorry, if that didn’t make sense. Let me break it down:

1. USDA investigates your store for potential SNAP violations
2. If they find violations, they send a charge letter
3. You have 10 days to respond and request a hearing

Wait, what did you say? Only 10 days to respond? Yep, you read that right. The clock is ticking from the moment that letter hits your mailbox.This is where having a skilled SNAP violation attorney can make all the difference. We know exactly what evidence to gather, how to build a strong defense, and can negotiate with the USDA to try reaching a favorable deal.If it goes to an administrative hearing, your lawyer will be your voice – presenting evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and fighting to protect your rights and interests.

The Penalties You Could Face

Let’s get one thing straight – the penalties for SNAP violations are no joke. We‘re talking:

• Temporary disqualification from the program (e.g. 6 months, 1 year)
• Permanent disqualification – kiss accepting SNAP benefits goodbye
• Civil monetary penalties up to $100,000 per violation
• Potential criminal charges leading to fines and imprisonment

Beyond that, a violation can trash your reputation, make it harder to get loans or licenses, and prevent you from participating in other government assistance programs.Most criminal defense attorneys will take any case that can pay – regardless of whether they can actually help the client. Not us. We only take clients who we truly believe we can assist.

Common SNAP Violation Examples

There are a bunch of ways stores can violate SNAP regulations. Some of the most common include:

• Trafficking benefits (exchanging them for cash, drugs, etc.)
• Allowing purchase of ineligible items (alcohol, hot foods, etc.)
• Overcharging customers or charging them sales tax
• Failing to maintain accurate transaction records
• Accepting SNAP benefits for credit accounts/bills

Even unintentional errors by your employees can result in crippling violations and penalties for you and your business.That’s why training your staff on SNAP rules is absolutely crucial. No cashier should handle EBT transactions until they’ve been properly trained.You should have a comprehensive compliance program and policy in writing – one that was implemented before any alleged violations occurred.

How We Defend Against SNAP Violations

At Spodek Law Group, our SNAP violation defense process is second to none. We‘ve conducted depositions of USDA officials, program specialists, investigators – you name it.This allows us to build cases tailored to the specific questions and concerns the USDA will have about your store’s operations. We know what evidence helps, what hurts, and how to present the strongest possible defense.We don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. We get to know you and your business inside and out. That way, we can identify any legitimate reasons for transaction patterns that raised red flags.Our attorneys handle SNAP violation cases nationwide, from LA to NYC. We’re not afraid to take on tough cases and fight for our clients.In the event of an emergency, we have a full team available 24/7 to jump in and help. We encourage open dialogue and transparency so we can provide the best counsel.

What to Do If You Get a SNAP Violation Letter

If you receive one of those dreaded charge letters, the first thing you should do is contact an experienced SNAP violation lawyer like those at Spodek Law Group.We can help you understand the allegations, advise you on the best way to respond, and start building a defense immediately. Remember, you‘re on an extremely tight timeline.Under no circumstances should you speak to the USDA or their investigators without an attorney present. Anything you say can and will be used against you to justify disqualification or harsher penalties.Don’t try to handle this on your own. The USDA wants to disqualify as many retailers as possible – having a skilled litigator in your corner could mean the difference between keeping your business or losing everything.