Criminal Defense Lawyers

Indianapolis Snap Violation Lawyers

First things first, let’s get on the same page about what the USDA might be accusing you of here. The most common SNAP violations include:23

• Trafficking benefits (buying or fraudulently accepting SNAP funds)
• Allowing SNAP purchases for non-food items like alcohol, tobacco, etc.
• Providing inaccurate information on your SNAP retailer application
• Redeeming more SNAP funds than your actual eligible food sales
• Letting ineligible people use SNAP benefits at your store

Any of those sound familiar? Or maybe you‘re completely blindsided because an employee made a mistake you didn’t know about. Either way, the bottom line is – the USDA takes these violations extremely seriously, and they’re coming for you hard.4 That’s why you need to respond forcefully and strategically, right from the start.

Your 10-Day Window to Respond

Here’s the first crucial fact you need to understand: you only have 10 days from the violation notice to submit your official response.34 Miss that deadline, and the USDA can automatically rule against you – potentially shutting down your SNAP payments immediately.So within that 10-day window, you need to craft and send a rock-solid legal response that lays out your defense, your evidence, your side of the story. And let me be blunt – trying to put that together yourself is a recipe for disaster. You need an experienced SNAP violation lawyer to:

• Analyze all the USDA’s allegations and evidence against you
• Gather all documentation, records, and proof to counter their claims
• Craft a meticulous, airtight legal response that protects your rights
• Advise you on your odds of winning at this stage vs. fighting it out

This 10-day response isn’t just some formality, it‘s arguably the most important step. Getting it wrong can sabotage your whole case before it even starts.4 That’s why our very first priority is ensuring you meet that deadline with the strongest possible defense, laying the groundwork to win.

How We Defend SNAP Violation Cases

But of course, that initial response is just the beginning. The USDA will review your defense, and then you‘ll face a couple more phases where you’ll need to fight tenaciously:

1. The Administrative Review4
   At this stage, the USDA will either accept your defense, or double down with a revised violation notice. Our lawyers will analyze their position, formulate a new strategy if needed, and submit another appeal within those 10 days.
2. The Federal Court Battle4
   If we still haven’t convinced the USDA, we can take it to federal court. Here, the burden is on us to prove definitively that the USDA’s violation claims are false or unjustified. We’ll make our case through testimony, evidence submissions, examination of witnesses, and aggressive litigation.

Look, taking on the federal government is never easy. But we’ve been waging these SNAP violation fights for decades, and we know how to shift the leverage in your favor at every stage.1 More importantly, we never take a half-hearted approach or back down in the face of intimidation. When you’re our client, you can be 100% certain we‘re giving you our full resources and tenacity.

Why Clients Trust the Spodek Law Group

There’s one reason you’re on this website: you’re looking for an elite criminal defense law firm that will treat your case with the highest level of dedication and skill.1 That‘s exactly what you’ll get from Spodek Law Group. We’re not a factory firm that puts cases on a conveyor belt. We’re a specialized boutique team that customizes our approach for each and every client.When you hire us, we’ll dive deep into every facet of your situation – analyzing records, interviewing witnesses, pouring through evidence.1 We‘ll work tirelessly to undermine the USDA’s case while shoring up an aggressive defense strategy. And of course, we‘ll leverage all our expertise in SNAP regulations, case law, and federal litigation procedures.But we‘ll also go beyond just the legal work. Facing these kinds of charges can be incredibly stressful and demoralizing. That‘s why we make it a top priority to provide emotional support every step of the way.1 We’ll keep you informed, answer every question, and give you the strength to persevere. We’ve got your back, 100%.It’s simple. Every single client deserves honesty and white glove service.1 When you‘re accused of a crime that could destroy your business and livelihood, you need attorneys who will fight for you with everything they‘ve got. That‘s exactly what you’ll get from Spodek Law Group.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

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

2024-03-15

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!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

Getting Started Is Easy

Dealing with a SNAP violation notice is stressful, but taking action is simple. Just pick up the phone and call us for a free, confidential consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your rights and options, and lay out a clear game plan for attack.From there, we’ll start working immediately on your official response, gathering evidence, building your defense. You can finally breathe a sigh of relief knowing you’ve got battle-tested lawyers in your corner.The bottom line? Don’t panic, don’t try to navigate this alone, and definitely don’t take the USDA’s violations lying down. With Spodek Law Group, you’ve got a fearless team ready to fight tooth and nail to protect your store and your future.1 All you have to do is make that first call.

Snap Violation Lawyers: Your First Line of Defense

Okay, now that we’ve set the stage, let‘s dive deeper into how our SNAP violation lawyers will wage this battle strategically on your behalf. Because when it comes to the government threatening your business and livelihood, you can’t afford to leave anything to chance.

Understanding the USDA’s Violation Process

First, it‘s crucial to understand the broader process the USDA follows when they suspect SNAP fraud or violations by a retailer. This allows us to anticipate their actions and develop a counterattack:

1. They launch an investigation into your store’s SNAP transactions and records
2. If they uncover evidence of violations, they send you that dreaded charge letter
3. You have 10 days to respond with a defense, or they can immediately sanction you
4. If your defense doesn’t convince them, they move to administrative review
5. After their review, you get one more chance to appeal before federal court
6. In federal court, they have to prove the violations and justify harsh penalties

As you can see, the process is designed to quickly build a case against you – unless we interrupt it at every phase with aggressive legal pushback.4 That‘s exactly what we’ll do, undermining their arguments from day one.

Crafting an Airtight Initial Response

Which brings us to your first, and arguably most important task – that 10-day response window after receiving the charge letter. Miss this, and you’re pretty much dead in the water.4 So how do we ensure we get it right?Our proven strategy involves:

• Carefully analyzing every shred of evidence and accusation they provide
• Pushing for all records, camera footage, witness statements, and documentation
• Constructing a meticulous written defense poking holes in their claims
• Including all proof of your compliance, training procedures, and more
• Forcefully arguing to dismiss any charges lacking sufficient evidence

We know all the tactics the USDA will try, from misconstruing innocent mistakes to making examples out of small retailers.2 Our job is to stay one step ahead, counter every allegation, and demonstrate your commitment to following all SNAP regulations.

Mounting a Relentless Multi-Front Defense

But of course, that response is just Phase 1. If the USDA pushes ahead to administrative review, we’ll double down with a new appeal strategy.4 We might:

• Highlight contradictions or lack of proof in their violation claims
• Argue their penalties are excessive or unwarranted for the alleged conduct
• Cite similar cases where violations were dismissed or reduced
• Emphasize your store’s importance to the local community and SNAP recipients

And if they still don’t back down? Then we‘re taking this fight to federal court, with all the legal firepower that entails.4 Motions, evidence submissions, witness testimony, examination of their employees – we’ll leave no stones unturned in dismantling their case piece by piece.The key is applying relentless pressure at every stage, on every front. We’ll hit them with legal arguments, factual defenses, procedural challenges – whatever it takes to protect your SNAP approval.