Working with a Federal Mail Fraud Defense Attorney
Understanding federal mail fraud and online fraud laws is critical. Scrofano Law can help you understand your legal rights and find the best course of action.
What is a Federal Mail Fraud Defense Attorney?
A federal mail fraud defense attorney is a type of fraud attorney who focuses on defending those accused of a particular crime. These lawyers may represent defendants from all levels of the criminal justice system, including those accused of committing federal crimes.
Federal mail fraud is a type of offense that occurs when someone knowingly and willfully uses the United States Postal Service to send or receive anything fraudulent, deceptive, or misleading. It’s punishable by not more than 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. If you have been a victim of any fraudulent scheme, working with a lawyer might help.
Mail fraud includes many types of scams, such as investment schemes, telemarketing scams, and identity theft schemes. Mail fraud is an ongoing problem because it’s so easy to commit and difficult to detect. If you have been accused of committing or conspiring to commit fraud, you need an experienced defense attorney before entering the federal criminal justice system. Federal prosecutors aggressively pursue any action that may constitute mail fraud. Contact Scrofano Law to fight your federal mail fraud charges.
Is Mail Fraud a Federal Crime?
Yes, mail fraud is a federal crime. Federal law designates mail fraud as a federal crime. Anyone whose fraudulent acts include the following qualifications commits mail fraud crimes.
- Devised or plans to devise a fraudulent scheme to defraud
- Fraudulently obtained or plans to obtain money or property
- Did so by false or fraudulent pretenses or promises
- Did so through the United States Postal Service (USPS)
This person has committed mail fraud by causing the fraudulent scheme to be delivered. This is a serious federal offense, and upon conviction, the penalties follow federal sentencing guidelines. If you feel you are wrongfully charged with mail and wire fraud, you should contact a criminal defense lawyer to avoid substantial fines and time in federal prison.
What is the Mail Fraud Statute?
The mail fraud statute defines the specifics of the federal criminal offense that prohibits the use of the United States Postal Service or other interstate or foreign means of communication in furtherance of any act to defraud.
Codified at 18 U.S.C. § 1341, the law states that it is illegal to use the U.S. mail to commit the following:
- Bank fraud
- Health care fraud
- Securities fraud
- Wire fraud
Although there are many other types of fraudulent schemes, those are the most common. Often, depending on the details of the criminal incident, someone accused of a mail fraud scheme will face a separate federal prosecution for each offense. A criminal defense attorney may help you negotiate a favorable plea agreement in response to your criminal charges.
What is a Common Mail Fraud Penalty?
If you have been accused of mail fraud, it is important to understand the penalties associated with this crime. Mail fraud is a federal offense that can result in substantial fines and prison time.
California state federal prosecutors aggressively pursue those accused of fraud schemes through the mail system. A federal prosecutor will generally seek the maximum punishments when they get a guilty verdict.
It is up to white-collar lawyers with robust criminal defense practices to introduce reasonable doubt. Your lawyer will work with you to prepare a defense strategy and represent your case in court. Having an experienced lawyer with experience in mail fraud cases is worthwhile to protect your rights in court. Scrofano Law P.C. will gladly discuss options for your criminal defense strategy.
If Convicted, What Mail Fraud Sentence Can You Expect?
Mail fraud is a federal crime that is punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. However, the severity of punishment depends on the type of mail fraud.
There are three types of mail fraud:
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Using the U.S. Postal Service or any private delivery service to commit wire fraud
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Using the U.S. Postal Service or any private delivery service to commit bank fraud
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Using the U.S. Postal Service or any private delivery service to commit credit card fraud
The sentence for mail fraud depends on the type of mail fraud committed and whether it was committed as a stand-alone crime, in combination with other crimes, or as part of an organized criminal group or syndicate. To receive a sentence, the federal prosecutor must prove that the defendant knew about the scheme beyond a reasonable doubt.
If you want to protect your rights in court, it is worthwhile to work with an experienced mail fraud defense attorney who can represent your case in federal court.
How Do You Choose Mail Fraud Lawyers?
Lawyers can help you if you have been charged with mail fraud. They can potentially help you resolve your case. There are a few things that you should keep in mind when choosing a lawyer:
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The lawyer’s experience with mail fraud cases
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The lawyer’s general reputation in the legal community
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The location of the law firm and how accessible it is to you
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How much time will they dedicate to your case, and how will they charge for their services
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Whether or not they practice defending mail fraud cases or other crimes
Formal consultations require a lawyer’s time and most attorneys specifically intend to determine whether they are the right firm for you. Contact Scrofano Law P.C. to schedule a free consultation.
What Can Mail Fraud Defense Attorneys Do for You?
Mail fraud is a federal crime that is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Mail fraud is committed when someone knowingly and willfully uses the US Postal Service or any private interstate carrier to engage in a scheme to defraud another person for money or property. Mail fraud also includes schemes to obtain money from a victim based on false statements, representations, or promises made through the mail.
Even if a defendant participated in a fraudulent electronic communication, they might face the same penalties. A good defense team will do its best to clear your name in the federal courts.
Hiring the Right Attorneys for Your Mail Fraud Defense
Mail fraud defense attorneys defend those accused of postal fraud or acting with fraudulent intent. If you cannot afford legal representation, a court-appointed lawyer may work with you. They often carry caseloads that make it difficult to offer personal attention to each case. Sometimes, other factors complicate the case.
For example, if you have provided evidence against your coworkers or are otherwise considered a whistleblower, you may be entitled to special arrangements that would reduce, soften, or eliminate your sentence.
If your case is complicated, you should seek a professional law firm for representation. At Scrofano Law P.C., the team is experienced in dealing with a variety of federal crimes and local Washington D.C. felonies and can even help with unique situations, like when a whistleblower attorney is needed.
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