Accusations of dishonest or fraudulent dealings can be frightening, as well as frustrating. If you are facing federal fraud charges, act now to find a Virginia federal fraud lawyer who could be your advocate and defend you against criminal charges.
An experienced federal attorney in Virginia will be able to explain all necessary information for someone facing charges of fraud and who is unsure how to begin building their defense.
Federal Fraud Charges
Fraud is loosely defined as an attempt to deceive someone for one’s personal benefit. Typically, in criminal fraud cases, a person is accused of using deception for financial gain. This may occur through the outright fabrication of facts or through misrepresentation or concealment of material facts.
Basic federal fraud statutes include mail and wire fraud. These statutes prohibit the following:
- Falsifying, concealing, or covering up a material fact by means of “any scheme or artifice to defraud” by US public or private mail
- Devising or intending to devise any scheme or artifice to defraud, or for obtaining money or property by means of false or fraudulent pretenses by means of wire, radio, or television communication. Mail and wire fraud are both punishable by up to 20 years of imprisonment.
If someone is investigated or indicted for federal fraud, their Virginia attorney could help explain the specific charge or charges they face, clarify any possible consequences, and create a defense strategy aimed at protecting them.
PENALTIES FOR FEDERAL FRAUD OFFENSES
Federal fraud offenses carry significant penalties that vary depending on the type and severity of the offense. Federal fraud encompasses a range of crimes, including mail fraud, wire fraud, bank fraud, securities fraud, healthcare fraud, and more. Each type of fraud is subject to specific statutes and corresponding penalties.
- Mail and wire fraud: Under 18 U.S.C. § 1341 and § 1343, mail and wire fraud are punishable by up to 20 years in prison and fines. When the fraud affects a financial institution, the penalties can increase to 30 years in prison and fines up to $1,000,000.
- Bank fraud: Defined under 18 U.S.C. § 1344, bank fraud involves defrauding a financial institution and can result in up to 30 years in prison and fines up to $1,000,000.
- Securities fraud: Governed by 18 U.S.C. § 1348, securities fraud penalties can include up to 25 years in prison and substantial fines, reflecting the serious impact on the financial markets.
- Healthcare fraud: Healthcare fraud can result in up to 10 years in prison per offense under 18 U.S.C. § 1347, with enhanced penalties if the fraud results in serious injury or death.
These penalties can also be accompanied by forfeiture of assets, restitution to victims, and additional civil penalties. Individuals facing federal fraud charges should seek immediate legal counsel from experienced federal fraud lawyers in Virginia who can help them navigate the intricacies of the law and mount an effective defense.
How a Legal Professional Could Help
When you are accused of a crime, it can feel as if all hope is lost. The truth is that you have a number of important rights as a defendant, and finding someone to make sure those rights are protected can give you peace of mind. Working with a fraud attorney could help you make wise decisions about your case. Finding a fraud lawyer might also help you bring your case to the best possible resolution.
There are several different types of fraud, and each fraud case is unique. Your attorney could tailor a defense to the specific details of your case. Common fraud defense strategies include:
- Suppression of improperly obtained evidence
- Working toward a dismissal of unwarranted charges
- Challenging evidence of intent to defraud
- Negotiating a plea for reduced charges and mitigating sentencing
- Keeping you apprised of the status of your case
- Aggressively pursue an acquittal at trial
- Protecting your rights as a defendant in a federal criminal case
No one can guarantee results. However, federal fraud attorneys in Virginia understand what it takes to successfully litigate in federal court. Our attorneys have the investigative resources and decades of legal experience required to defend clients facing serious fraud accusations.
Call a Virginia Federal Fraud Attorney Now
When you need a fraud defense lawyer, you need an attorney who is committed to your success and always has your best interests at heart. Contact a Virginia federal fraud lawyer who is equipped and ready to fight for you as soon as possible.
