Richard Silver defends self-employed disabled man from DWP benefit fraud accusations.

We recently successfully defended Mr. Erduvan Osman, a well-known public figure in Manchester who had been charged with dishonestly failing to notify the DWP of a change of circumstances, contrary to section 111A Social Security Administration Act 1992.

Mr. Osman suffered a tragic motorbike accident and was disabled for life. He was legitimately receiving mobility and care funding, but the Department for Work and Pensions claimed his circumstances had changed and that he had failed to notify them.

The trial lasted two days before a District Judge at Manchester Magistrates’ Court found Mr. Osman innocent, praising his refreshing honest and legal defence. It was a perfect example of how crucial it is to have a solicitor who specialises in benefit fraud cases like these.

Our criminal defence solicitor, Alison Mafham, had access to the guidance used by the DWP themselves and was able to cross examine their witnesses in great detail.

The case itself, including the investigation, had lasted over 18 months and had caused the client and his family a huge amount of stress. Mr. Osman’s honest and trustworthy reputation was on the line and his livelihood would have further suffered had he been found guilty, with customers choosing to avoid his popular burger van outside Manchester United’s Old Trafford football ground.

Following his acquittal, Mr. Osman told Richard Silver how thankful he was for the help and support he received from Alison: “all your hard work paid off, we really appreciate everything you did for us. If we ever find ourselves in this type of mess again you would be the very first person we would ring.”

If you are facing a similar situation to Mr. Osman, or require any kind of criminal defence expertise, do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

Richard Silver CTA Call us on 0808 231 3908

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