New Jersey Mail Wire Fraud Attorneys
Our Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help
If you’ve been arrested (or suspect you’re under investigation) for mail or wire fraud, seek legal help immediately. Considered extremely serious crimes, these can be prosecuted on the federal level, leading to severe consequences. Any crime involving the U.S. mail or electronic communications constitutes mail and wire fraud, and is considered a white-collar crime.
The criminal defense lawyers at Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq work with discretion, behind the scenes with prosecutors, understanding that your reputation and freedom are on the line. We do everything in our power to avoid a criminal investigation that could damage your professional status.
Mail and Wire Fraud Explained
If you’re charged with conspiracy to commit fraud, below is a brief explanation of each crime, so you can better understand what you may be up against.
Mail Fraud. Mail fraud involves defrauding an entity through the use of the postal service for illegal financial gain. This includes individuals, banks, the government, or businesses. Because the government runs the postal service, mail fraud is considered a federal crime. In order to commit mail fraud, you must have 1) have used a scheme to defraud others, and 2) used the mail to carry out that fraud.
Penalties for a conviction of mail fraud are harsh and can include:
- Up to 20 years in prison
- Substantial fines
- Up to 30 years in prison if a financial institution is involved
- Fines of up to $1 million if a financial institution is involved
Wire Fraud. Wire fraud is similar to mail fraud, but because of today’s advances in electronic communication, it includes things like the telephone, computers, and interstate wires. This is also a federal crime. The elements of wire fraud include 1) devising or joining in a scheme to defraud an entity for financial gain, 2) carrying out this scheme to defraud others, 3) a reasonable knowledge that interstate wires would complete the fraud, and 4) wire communications were used for the fraud.
Penalties for wire fraud conviction include:
- Up to 20 years in prison
- Substantial fines
- Up to 30 years in prison if a financial institution is involved
- Fines of up to $1 million if a financial institution is involved
Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Protect Your Rights
If you believe you’re under investigation for mail or wire fraud, or have already been arrested, it’s crucial you contact a lawyer as soon as possible. These charges are extremely complex. Our team of attorneys at Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq is well-versed in white-collar crime and understands how to work with prosecutors.
To speak with a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyers immediately, call us toll free at 800.923.3456 or contact us online to discuss your legal matter today.