Protect Yourself Against Federal Charges With A Chicago Wire Fraud Attorney
Anyone who has been the target of a federal investigation understands how terrifying it can be when the immense resources of the federal government are pointed against you. If you are under investigation for wire fraud, it is easy to get overwhelmed by the complexity of the legal system and anxious about potentially severe life consequences. Choosing the right federal criminal defense attorney is a critical decision. You need a legal advocate who understands the high stakes and possesses the tenacity to challenge federal prosecutors at every turn.
Criminal defense attorney Richard Fenbert provides diligent defense for complex white collar crimes like wire fraud. He founded his firm, Fenbert & Associates, to provide aggressive criminal defense services to clients throughout the Chicago area. Whether you are under a federal grand jury investigation or have already been indicted, he is available 24/7 and will fight to protect your rights and freedom.
Understanding Wire Fraud Charges
Wire fraud is a complex white collar crime that the government prosecutes aggressively. Under the federal wire fraud statute, it is illegal to use electronic communications to further a scheme to defraud someone of money or property. Because modern business relies almost entirely on digital communication, the government applies this law to a wide range of activities.
Common examples of conduct that may lead to federal fraud charges include:
- Business email compromise: This involves using email and online fraud to trick companies into transferring funds to unauthorized accounts.
- Investment and securities schemes: Promoters may use the internet to distribute false information to induce investors to buy fraudulent stocks or assets.
- Phishing and online scams: An internet fraud lawyer often defends cases where individuals are accused of using fake websites to gather personal data for financial gain.
- Mortgage and banking fraud: This type of fraud uses electronic communications fraud to submit false documents to financial institutions for loans or credit.
- Fraud conspiracy charges: The government often charges multiple people who allegedly worked together to plan or execute a fraudulent scheme.
Attorney Fenbert has the deep experience necessary to defend clients against intricate financial fraud crimes. He examines every piece of digital evidence to build a robust wire fraud defense, leaving no stone unturned. He refuses to take shortcuts and is well known and respected for his never-back-down approach.
How Do Federal Wire Fraud Crimes Differ From State Wire Fraud Crimes?
While Illinois has its own laws regarding theft and deceptive practices, wire fraud is predominantly a federal issue. Federal agencies take jurisdiction once a communication crosses state lines or uses a system that affects interstate commerce. These systems can include:
- The internet
- A cell tower
- A computer server
Federal cases are prosecuted in U.S. District Courts and follow the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure. Federal prosecutors often have more time and resources than state local police, making an interstate communications fraud case particularly difficult to fight without a dedicated federal wire fraud attorney.
What Are Possible Penalties For Wire Fraud?
Wire fraud penalties mandated by federal law are among the harshest for nonviolent offenses. In addition to prison time, you may face:
- Fines reaching $250,000 (or $1,000,000 for banks)
- Full restitution to any alleged victims
- Long-term supervised release after prison
- The permanent loss of professional licenses and a damaged reputation
A single count of wire fraud can lead to a prison sentence of up to 20 years. If the fraud affects a financial institution, the maximum sentence increases to 30 years.
What Are The Key Defense Strategies For Wire Fraud Crimes?
Every case is different. However, attorney Fenbert will evaluate your situation and consider several proven strategies to protect your rights. These include:
- Challenging intent: The government must prove you intended to defraud someone. Honest mistakes or good-faith business failures are not crimes.
- Suppressing evidence: Scrutinizing how the government obtained digital data is critical for protecting your Fourth Amendment rights.
- Disrupting the link between mail and wire fraud: It is possible to argue that the government cannot prove the specific use of wires required for a conviction.
Early intervention is important. An experienced white collar crimes lawyer can protect your rights and communicate with investigators before charges are even filed. Your defense attorney can negotiate with prosecutors to seek a dismissal or a significant reduction in charges.
Consult A Chicago Wire Fraud Attorney For Free
If you suspect that you are under investigation by federal authorities, time is of the essence. Attorney Fenbert offers clients a free initial consultation. To schedule your free appointment, call or text Fenbert & Associates at 630-917-2051. You can also email the firm at [email protected]. Don’t leave your future to chance. Start building your defense.