Tucson Snap Violation Lawyers

What is a SNAP Violation?

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, helps low-income households purchase food. However, there are strict rules and regulations surrounding the use of SNAP benefits. A violation occurs when a retailer or recipient fails to comply with these rules.Common SNAP violations include:

• Trafficking SNAP benefits (exchanging them for cash, drugs, or other ineligible items)
• Allowing the purchase of ineligible items like alcohol or tobacco
• Submitting false information on SNAP retailer applications
• Manually entering EBT card numbers instead of swiping the card (indicating potential fraud)

So, what do you do if you get hit with one of these things? The consequences can be severe - fines, temporary disqualification, or even permanent disqualification from the SNAP program. It's crucial to take action immediately.

Why Hire a SNAP Violation Lawyer?

Navigating SNAP violation charges alone is risky. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), which oversees SNAP, is aggressive in pursuing violations. They have teams dedicated to investigating and prosecuting retailers.A skilled SNAP violation lawyer can:

• Thoroughly review the charges and evidence against you
• Identify weaknesses in the USDA's case
• Build a strong defense strategy tailored to your situation
• Represent you through administrative hearings and appeals
• Negotiate for reduced penalties if appropriate

Without legal representation, you may inadvertently admit guilt or fail to present a compelling case. This could lead to harsh penalties that cripple your business.At Spodek Law Group, our SNAP violation attorneys have extensive experience handling these complex cases nationwide. We understand the USDA's tactics and know how to counter them effectively.

The SNAP Violation Process

If the USDA suspects a SNAP violation occurred at your store, they will send you a charge letter via overnight mail. You only have 10 days from the delivery date to respond. Failure to respond will likely result in permanent disqualification from SNAP.The charge letter outlines the specific violation(s) alleged and includes evidence like transaction data. Don't try to handle this alone. An experienced lawyer can:

1. Carefully review the charges and evidence
2. Gather documentation and information to build your defense
3. Submit a timely, comprehensive response contesting the allegations

If the USDA decides to pursue penalties after reviewing your response, they will send a determination letter. At this point, you can accept the penalty or request an administrative review.An administrative review is your opportunity to present your full case before an impartial judge. Having a SNAP lawyer represent you is crucial - they understand the complex rules and regulations, and know how to effectively argue your position.If the administrative review ruling is unfavorable, you can pursue further appeals through the court system. However, these appeals have strict deadlines that must be followed precisely.

Don't Delay - Protect Your Business

Spodek Law Group has successfully defended retailers across the nation against SNAP violation charges. Our attorneys know what it takes to get charges dismissed or penalties reduced.It's simple. Every single client deserves honesty and white glove service. Every single client should know what he, or she, potentially faces - and have a fighter in their corner from day one.If you've received a SNAP violation charge letter, contact us immediately for a free consultation. We can review your case, explain your options, and start building a powerful defense strategy. Don't risk your ability to accept SNAP benefits - get Spodek Law Group on your side today.

Snap Violation Examples

To give you a better understanding, let's look at some common SNAP violation examples:

Trafficking SNAP Benefits

This is when a retailer illegally exchanges SNAP benefits for cash, drugs, weapons, or other ineligible items. For example, a store clerk may "buy" a customer's EBT card and PIN for cash, then use the benefits to stock the store's inventory.Trafficking SNAP benefits is a serious violation that can lead to permanent disqualification and potential criminal charges.

Selling Ineligible Items

SNAP benefits can only be used to purchase eligible food items. Retailers cannot allow the purchase of alcohol, tobacco, pet food, vitamins, or non-food items with SNAP.A store may face penalties if the USDA finds a pattern of transactions for ineligible goods.

Excessive Manual Transactions

Swiping an EBT card is the proper way to process SNAP purchases. Manually entering the card numbers raises red flags, as it could indicate the card was not present (stolen) or the purchase was illegitimate.Too many manual transactions can trigger a SNAP violation investigation.

Inflated Redemptions

The USDA monitors SNAP redemption data closely. If a store's redemptions far exceed its actual eligible food sales over the same period, it suggests potential SNAP trafficking is occurring.Retailers must maintain accurate records and be able to justify any discrepancies in their data.These are just a few examples. There are many nuances and complexities to SNAP regulations that require an attorney's expertise to navigate properly.

Don't Go It Alone

Spodek Law Group has battled the USDA and won - securing dismissals and reducing penalties for retailers nationwide. Our SNAP violation lawyers know this area of law inside and out.We understand you may be worried, embarrassed, or unsure of what to do next. But, take a deep breath. We're here to guide you through this and get the best possible outcome.Trying to defend yourself against these charges is unwise. The stakes are too high. One misstep could cost you your SNAP retailer privileges permanently.