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Aggressive. Experienced.
Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney Former Cook County Felony Prosecutor
Federal Mail Fraud
Facing Federal Mail Fraud Charges? Andrew M. Weisberg Can Defend Your Rights
Mail fraud is a serious federal crime that involves using the postal service or any interstate carrier to carry out a scheme to defraud someone of money, property, or honest services. Under federal law, mail fraud can lead to severe penalties, including substantial fines, lengthy prison sentences, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing charges for federal mail fraud, it is crucial to have an experienced defense attorney like Andrew M. Weisberg to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
Understanding Mail Fraud Under U.S. Law
Mail fraud is defined under 18 U.S. Code § 1341. This statute makes it illegal for any person to devise or intend to devise a scheme or artifice to defraud, or to obtain money or property by means of false or fraudulent pretenses, representations, or promises, and to place in any post office or authorized depository for mail, or to deposit or cause to be deposited any matter or thing to be sent or delivered by the Postal Service or any interstate carrier for the purpose of executing such a scheme.
Key Elements of Mail Fraud:
Scheme to Defraud: The prosecution must prove that there was a deliberate plan or scheme to defraud someone of money, property, or honest services.
Material Misrepresentation: The fraudulent scheme must involve a material misrepresentation or false statement that is capable of influencing the victim’s decision.
Use of Mail: The fraudulent scheme must involve the use of the U.S. Postal Service or any private or interstate mail carrier.
Intent: The prosecution must show that the defendant acted with the specific intent to defraud the victim.
Penalties for Federal Mail Fraud
The penalties for federal mail fraud are severe and can have long-lasting consequences. Under 18 U.S. Code § 1341, the penalties include:
Imprisonment: Up to 20 years in federal prison. If the fraud affects a financial institution or is related to a presidentially declared disaster or emergency, the sentence can increase to 30 years.
Fines: Up to $250,000 for individuals or $500,000 for organizations.
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 for the amount defrauded.
Permanent Criminal Record: A conviction for mail 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 mail fraud, individuals may face related charges under federal law, which can compound the penalties:
Wire Fraud (18 U.S. Code § 1343): Similar to mail fraud but involves the use of electronic communications such as phone calls, emails, or internet transactions.
Bank Fraud (18 U.S. Code § 1344): Defrauding a financial institution, which often accompanies mail fraud charges.
Conspiracy to Commit Fraud (18 U.S. Code § 371): Conspiring with others to commit mail fraud or other fraudulent activities.
Consequences of a Federal Mail Fraud Conviction
A conviction for federal mail 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 mail 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.
Defending Against Mail Fraud Charges
Successfully defending against charges of federal mail 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 communications involved were not part of any scheme to defraud, this could be a significant defense.
Good Faith: If you believed that your statements or representations were true 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 or communications, that the prosecution is using to build their case.
Statute of Limitations: Federal charges for mail fraud must be brought within a certain time frame. If the statute of limitations has expired, Andrew may seek to have the charges dismissed.
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 mail 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 mail 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 mail 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 mail 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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