مكتب المحامى – مشاري عبيد العنزي | Lawyer Meshari Obeed AlEnezi legal firm

1. Is fraud considered a serious criminal offense in Kuwait?

Yes. Fraud is classified as a criminal offense under the Kuwaiti Penal Code.
The law treats fraud as a violation of both private property and public trust,
and offenders may face imprisonment, fines, and confiscation of illicit gains.

2. What is the difference between fraud and breach of trust under Kuwaiti law?

Fraud involves obtaining money through deception and false representations,
while breach of trust occurs when money or property is lawfully received
and later misappropriated in violation of the agreed purpose.
Kuwaiti courts carefully distinguish between these two offenses
based on the manner in which the funds were obtained.

3. Can electronic or online scams be prosecuted in Kuwait?

Yes. Online fraud, electronic scams, and digital financial deception
are fully prosecutable under Kuwaiti law.
Depending on the facts, such acts may fall under fraud provisions,
cybercrime legislation, or both, with aggravated penalties
in cases involving organized or repeated conduct.

4. Is it necessary to prove intent in fraud cases?

Yes. Criminal intent is a fundamental element of fraud.
The Public Prosecution must establish that the accused
deliberately intended to deceive the victim
in order to unlawfully obtain money or financial benefit.

5. Can the victim recover their money in fraud cases?

Yes. Kuwaiti law allows victims to claim restitution and compensation.
Civil claims may be filed alongside the criminal case,
enabling the court to order the return of funds
and compensation for material and moral damages.

6. How long does a fraud case usually take in Kuwait?

The duration varies depending on the complexity of the case,
the amount involved, and the evidence available.
Proper legal handling from the beginning
significantly increases efficiency and chances of recovery.

7. Should a lawyer be involved at the investigation stage?

Absolutely. Early legal intervention ensures
correct legal classification of the offense,
proper submission of evidence,
and protection of the victim’s rights
throughout investigation and trial stages.

Fraud, scams, and the misappropriation of private funds
represent some of the most damaging financial crimes in Kuwait,
both for individuals and businesses.
Kuwaiti law provides strong legal tools to combat such offenses,
but success depends largely on accurate legal characterization
and professional case management.

Victims of fraud often lose valuable time and evidence
due to improper legal handling or delayed action.
Engaging a lawyer specialized in fraud and financial crimes
ensures that complaints are properly filed,
evidence is preserved,
and recovery procedures are pursued effectively.