When deceptive conduct results in financial harm, fraud litigation can serve as a powerful tool for holding wrongdoers accountable and recovering damages. At Gueronniere Law, P.A., we represent clients throughout Florida in civil fraud matters—helping individuals and businesses protect their rights, enforce contractual agreements, and seek appropriate remedies through the court system.
Whether you’ve been the victim of fraudulent misrepresentation or are facing fraud accusations, navigating these disputes requires a careful, strategic approach grounded in a clear understanding of the law.
What Is Civil Fraud?
In the civil context, fraud occurs when one party intentionally misrepresents a material fact, knowing it to be false, with the intent to deceive another party, who then suffers harm by relying on that false statement.
Common forms of civil fraud include:
- Contractual fraud: False statements made during business negotiations or in the execution of a contract.
- Real estate fraud: Misrepresentations during the purchase, lease, or sale of real property.
- Business fraud: Deceptive practices such as falsifying financial records or omitting key information during a business deal.
- Fraudulent inducement: Convincing someone to enter into an agreement based on false pretenses.
- Concealment or non-disclosure: Failing to disclose critical information with the intent to mislead.
Unlike criminal fraud cases, which are prosecuted by the state, civil fraud litigation is initiated by the injured party seeking compensation or other civil remedies.
Key Elements of a Fraud Claim in Florida
To bring a successful fraud lawsuit in Florida, the plaintiff must typically prove the following elements:
- A false statement concerning a material fact
- Knowledge that the statement was false
- Intent by the defendant to induce the plaintiff to act on the misrepresentation
- Justifiable reliance by the plaintiff on the false statement
- Resulting damages
Each of these elements must be supported by clear and convincing evidence. These cases often involve detailed factual investigations, document reviews, and witness testimony.
Remedies Available in Fraud Cases
If fraud is proven, several legal remedies may be available, including:
- Compensatory damages: To reimburse the injured party for financial losses suffered.
- Punitive damages: In some instances, Florida courts may award punitive damages to punish particularly egregious conduct and deter similar behavior.
- Rescission of a contract: Cancelling the agreement and restoring both parties to their pre-contract positions.
- Injunctive relief: A court order preventing the offending party from continuing the fraudulent activity.
Our team can evaluate your case and help determine the most appropriate path forward based on your goals and the available evidence.
Defending Against Fraud Allegations
Allegations of fraud are serious and can threaten your business, finances, and reputation. Gueronniere Law, P.A. also defends individuals and businesses wrongfully accused of fraud. A strong defense may involve challenging the truth of the allegations, demonstrating the absence of intent, or showing that the alleged victim did not suffer harm as claimed.
If you’ve been named in a fraud lawsuit, we can help you respond strategically and minimize the potential legal and financial consequences.
Fraud in Business and Equine Transactions
In Florida’s equestrian communities, like Wellington and Marion County, fraud disputes sometimes arise in the sale or lease of horses, partnership arrangements, and boarding or training agreements. Misrepresentations about a horse’s health, lineage, training, or performance history can lead to costly disputes and, in some cases, litigation.
Our firm is well-versed in equine industry norms and contractual considerations, allowing us to effectively represent clients in fraud claims involving horse sales, breeding agreements, and other equine transactions.
We also handle fraud cases involving general business disputes, real estate transactions, and breach of fiduciary duties.
Working with Gueronniere Law, P.A.
Litigating a fraud claim requires more than simply pointing to dishonest behavior—it requires building a legally sound case backed by persuasive evidence. At Gueronniere Law, P.A., we work closely with our clients to gather the necessary documentation, identify key witnesses, and craft legal arguments designed to achieve favorable outcomes.
We approach each fraud litigation matter with diligence and clear communication, whether pursuing recovery for our clients or defending their interests in complex disputes. Our firm proudly serves clients throughout Florida, with a strong presence in Wellington, West Palm Beach, Marion County, and surrounding areas.
Contact Us
If you believe you’ve been defrauded—or are facing a fraud allegation—it’s essential to act quickly. Contact Gueronniere Law, P.A. today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist you in navigating your fraud litigation matter with confidence and clarity.