Federal Mail Fraud Defense Lawyer in West Palm Beach
The federal government often uses mail fraud as an add-on charge, meaning it is one of two or more charges the individual faces.
Regardless of the circumstances, the government must prove that you used the mail to further or execute a fraudulent scheme. This includes using the United States Postal Service or a private carrier.
Whether you are facing a single mail fraud charge or have also been indicted for other crimes, you need an attorney by your side. With more than 34 years of experience in the federal court system, Ronald S. Chapman understands how to negotiate with federal prosecutors and how to defend clients in court. Reach out to consult with our West Palm Beach mail fraud lawyer today.
Types of Mail Fraud
Mail fraud is the use of the mail to defraud others in order to gain something of value, such as money. Some examples include:
- Get rich quick schemes
- Investment scams
- Charitable giving fraud
- Healthcare or insurance fraud
- Sweepstakes fraud
What Is Mail Fraud?
Many people are surprised by the leeway the federal government has when charging people with mail fraud. First, the mail does not have to be an essential element of the overall scheme. Additionally, you do not have to send mail yourself to end up indicted for mail fraud. Instead, the federal government can charge you if the alleged victims used the mail at your request. For instance, the alleged victims might mail money or other financial information to you, meaning you can be charged with mail fraud.
You can even be charged with mail fraud if you mail something for a person you suspect is carrying out a scheme. This is true even if you were not certain that the mail contained anything related to the fraud. In this instance, your mail fraud charge will be based on aiding and abetting.
Due to the leeway the federal government has, some people face mail fraud charges even if they did not actually commit a crime. Fortunately, you have the right to defend yourself. Reach out to our West Palm Beach mail fraud lawyer to discuss possible strategies inside and outside the courtroom.
Defenses to Mail Fraud
Your mail fraud defense lawyer will review the facts and evidence in your case before formulating a strategy. For example, your lawyer might discover that the mail did not play a role in furthering or executing the alleged fraud, or maybe the government does not have the evidence necessary to convict you.. Contact our firm today to discuss the facts of your case as well as possible defense strategies.
Potential Penalties
Even though mail fraud is often an add-on charge, it comes with stiff penalties if convicted. For instance, you can receive a sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison for this charge alone. If the fraudulent activity involves federal disaster relief or a financial institution, the judge can add even more years to your sentence. With so much at stake, contact Ronald Chapman today to discuss your legal options.
Conspiracy To Commit Mail Fraud
The federal government can charge you with conspiracy to commit mail fraud as well as mail fraud. In fact, you can be charged with conspiracy even if you did not follow through with the mail fraud scheme. The government must prove that you entered into an agreement with at least one other person to commit mail fraud. The burden of proof is on the federal government, and your West Palm Beach mail fraud lawyer can help you mount a vigorous defense. Contact our firm today to discuss your charges.