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Aggressive. Experienced.
Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney Former Cook County Felony Prosecutor
Federal Bank Fraud
Facing Federal Bank Fraud Charges? Andrew M. Weisberg Can Defend Your Rights
Bank fraud is a serious federal crime that involves the use of deceitful or fraudulent means to obtain money, assets, or other property from a financial institution. Under federal law, bank fraud is treated as a severe offense, with harsh penalties including substantial fines, lengthy prison sentences, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing federal bank fraud charges, it is crucial to have an experienced defense attorney like Andrew M. Weisberg on your side to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
Understanding Bank Fraud Under U.S. Law
Federal bank fraud is defined under 18 U.S. Code § 1344. This statute makes it illegal for any person to knowingly execute, or attempt to execute, a scheme or artifice:
To defraud a financial institution; or
To obtain any of the moneys, funds, credits, assets, securities, or other property owned by, or under the custody or control of, a financial institution, by means of false or fraudulent pretenses, representations, or promises.
Key Elements of Federal Bank Fraud:
Scheme to Defraud: The prosecution must prove that there was a deliberate plan or scheme to defraud a financial institution.
Material Misrepresentation: The fraudulent scheme must involve a material misrepresentation or false statement that is capable of influencing the financial institution’s decisions.
Knowledge and Intent: The prosecution must show that the defendant acted knowingly and with the specific intent to defraud the financial institution.
Penalties for Federal Bank Fraud
The penalties for federal bank fraud are severe and can have long-lasting consequences. Under 18 U.S. Code § 1344, the penalties include:
Imprisonment: Up to 30 years in federal prison.
Fines: Up to $1,000,000.
Supervised Release: Following imprisonment, the defendant may be subject to a period of supervised release.
Restitution: The court may order the defendant to pay restitution to the victims, including the financial institution, for the amount defrauded.
Permanent Criminal Record: A conviction for bank fraud will result in a permanent federal criminal record, which can affect your ability to secure employment, obtain loans, and more.
Related Federal Offenses
In addition to bank fraud, individuals may face related charges under federal law, which can compound the penalties:
Wire Fraud (18 U.S. Code § 1343): Involves using electronic communications, such as phone calls or emails, to carry out a fraudulent scheme.
Mail Fraud (18 U.S. Code § 1341): Involves using the postal service or any interstate carrier to carry out a fraudulent scheme.
Conspiracy to Commit Fraud (18 U.S. Code § 371): Conspiring with others to commit bank fraud or other fraudulent activities.
Consequences of a Federal Bank Fraud Conviction
A conviction for federal bank fraud can have severe and long-lasting consequences:
Incarceration: A lengthy prison sentence can disrupt your life, causing financial hardship and emotional stress for you and your family.
Financial Penalties: In addition to fines and restitution, you may face forfeiture of assets related to the fraudulent scheme.
Damage to Reputation: A federal conviction for bank fraud can severely damage your personal and professional reputation, making it difficult to rebuild your life.
Loss of Professional Licenses: Certain professionals, such as attorneys, accountants, and financial advisors, may lose their licenses or certifications following a conviction.
Barred from Banking Industry: A conviction for bank fraud can result in a permanent ban from working in the banking or financial services industry.
Defending Against Bank Fraud Charges
Successfully defending against charges of federal bank fraud requires a strategic and comprehensive approach. Andrew M. Weisberg will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your case, scrutinizing the evidence and questioning the validity of the prosecution’s claims. Some potential defense strategies may include:
Lack of Intent: The prosecution must prove that you acted with the specific intent to defraud. If there was no intent to deceive or mislead, this could be a strong defense.
No Scheme to Defraud: If the prosecution cannot prove the existence of a fraudulent scheme or that the actions involved were not part of any scheme to defraud a financial institution, this could be a significant defense.
Good Faith: If you believed that your actions were legal and had no intent to defraud, this could be used as a defense.
Challenging the Evidence: Andrew may challenge the credibility of the evidence, such as documents, communications, or witness testimony, that the prosecution is using to build their case.
Procedural Defenses: Andrew may challenge the legality of the investigation or the methods used to gather evidence against you.
Why Choose Andrew M. Weisberg as Your Defense Attorney?
Andrew M. Weisberg is a seasoned criminal defense attorney with extensive experience handling federal offenses, including charges related to bank fraud. His background as a former Cook County prosecutor gives him unique insights into how these cases are built and prosecuted, allowing him to anticipate the prosecution’s strategies and develop a robust defense on your behalf.
When you choose Andrew as your defense attorney, you benefit from:
Comprehensive Legal Knowledge: Andrew’s deep understanding of federal laws ensures that your case will be handled with the utmost competence and care.
Aggressive Defense Strategies: Andrew is known for his relentless and proactive defense tactics, exploring every possible angle to protect your rights.
Personalized Attention: Andrew provides each client with individualized attention, ensuring that your specific circumstances and needs are fully addressed.
The Importance of Early Legal Intervention
If you have been charged with federal bank fraud, it is crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Early intervention by a skilled attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Andrew M. Weisberg will take immediate action to protect your rights, gather evidence, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.
Andrew M. Weisberg: Committed to Your Defense
Facing charges of federal bank fraud can be overwhelming and stressful. Andrew M. Weisberg is committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation throughout the entire process. He will keep you informed at every stage, answer all your questions, and fight tirelessly to protect your rights and future.
Contact the Law Offices of Andrew M. Weisberg Today
If you have been arrested or charged with federal bank fraud, don’t delay in seeking legal representation. Andrew M. Weisberg is available 24/7 to discuss your case and provide the immediate assistance you need.
Contact Andrew today for a free, confidential consultation:
Phone: Call (773) 908-9811 anytime, day or night.
Online: Fill out the Case Review form on our website, and we will get back to you promptly.
Remember, the sooner you have an experienced attorney on your side, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. Let Andrew M. Weisberg put his expertise to work for you.
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