Wire Fraud
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Alexandria Wire Fraud Lawyers
Providing Aggressive Defense for 25+ Years
If you or a loved one has recently been investigated or charged with wire fraud in Virginia or Washington D.C., Jenkins Law is committed to helping people facing serious federal charges by fighting for them.
Our Alexandria wire fraud defense lawyers have 26 years of experience defending clients in federal court and understand how to help you get the results and justice you deserve.
Are you facing wire fraud charges in Virginia? Call Jenkins Law today at (703) 537-5522 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with one of our wire fraud attorneys in Alexandria!
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What is Wire Fraud?
To be convicted of wire fraud, the government must prove that the defendant:
- created or participated in a scheme to defraud;
- had the intent to defraud; and
- used wire communications in furtherance of the scheme.
The scheme to defraud can take many forms, such as a Ponzi scheme, telemarketing fraud, or phishing scams. The use of wire communications can include sending emails or faxes, making phone calls, or using the internet to communicate with victims.
It’s important to note that wire fraud is a federal crime, and therefore, it is prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office. If you are facing charges of wire fraud, it is essential to consult with an experienced Alexandria wire fraud attorney who can help you understand your rights and options and build a strong defense on your behalf.
Common Types of Wire Fraud
Wire fraud is a federal crime that encompasses a wide range of fraudulent activities. Some of the most common types of wire fraud cases include:
- Investment Fraud: Investment fraud occurs when an individual or organization uses false or misleading information to convince investors to put their money into a scheme that does not exist. Common examples of investment fraud include Ponzi schemes and pyramid schemes.
- Telemarketing Fraud: Telemarketing fraud involves using the telephone to contact individuals and deceive them into sending money or providing personal information. This type of fraud can take many forms, including lottery, charity, and advance-fee scams.
- Internet Fraud: Internet fraud involves using the Internet to carry out fraudulent activities. Examples of internet fraud include phishing scams, identity theft, and online auction fraud.
- Bank Fraud: Bank fraud occurs when an individual or organization uses false or misleading information to obtain money or credit from a financial institution. This can include activities such as check fraud, loan fraud, and credit card fraud.
- Securities Fraud: Securities fraud involves using false or misleading information to manipulate the stock market or deceive investors. Common examples of securities fraud include insider trading, market manipulation, and Ponzi schemes.
Regardless of the type of wire fraud case you face, it’s important to remember that the government must prove that you intended to defraud and used wire communications to further the scheme.
What Are the Penalties for Wire Fraud?
The penalties for wire fraud can be severe and may include the following:
- Imprisonment: Those convicted of wire fraud can face up to 20 years in federal prison. If the fraud resulted in a financial loss of $1 million or more, the maximum prison sentence can increase to 30 years.
- Fines: The maximum fine for wire fraud is $250,000 for individuals and $500,000 for organizations. However, if the fraud resulted in a financial loss of more than $100 million, the fine can increase to $25 million for individuals and $100 million for organizations.
- Restitution: Defendants may be required to pay restitution to the victims of the wire fraud scheme.
- Probation: In some cases, the court may order probation instead of or in addition to imprisonment.
- Asset Forfeiture: The court may order the forfeiture of any assets obtained due to the wire fraud scheme.
It’s important to note that the severity of the penalties for wire fraud can vary based on the case’s specific circumstances, such as the amount of money involved and the defendant’s criminal history.
In addition, the sentencing guidelines for wire fraud can be complex, and it’s essential to work with one of our experienced wire fraud lawyers in Alexandria who can help you understand the potential penalties and build a strong defense on your behalf.
Defenses To Wire Fraud Charges
If you are facing wire fraud charges, several defenses may be available. Some of the most common defenses to wire fraud charges include:
- Lack of Intent: To be convicted of wire fraud, the government must prove that you had the intent to defraud. You could use this as a defense if you did not intend to defraud.
- Mistake or Misunderstanding: If you made an honest mistake or misunderstood the nature of the transaction, you may be able to argue that you did not have the intent to defraud.
- Entrapment: If you were induced by law enforcement to commit wire fraud, you might be able to argue that you were a victim of entrapment.
- Duress: If you were forced or threatened into committing wire fraud, you might be able to use duress as a defense.
- Insufficient Evidence: If the government does not have sufficient evidence to prove that you committed wire fraud, you may be able to argue that there is insufficient evidence to support a conviction.
- Constitutional Violations: If your rights were violated during the investigation or prosecution of the case, you may be able to argue that evidence should be suppressed or that the charges should be dismissed.
It’s important to remember that the specific defenses available to you will depend on the facts and circumstances of your case.
Contact Our Alexandria Wire Fraud Attorneys Today
If you are facing charges of wire fraud, it’s crucial to work with an experienced federal criminal defense attorney who can help you understand your options and build a strong defense strategy on your behalf. At Jenkins Law, our Alexandria wire fraud lawyers have extensive experience representing clients in federal criminal cases, including wire fraud.
We understand the complexities of federal criminal law and can help you navigate the legal system while working to protect your rights and freedoms. With our guidance and support, you can face your charges confidently and work towards the best possible outcome for your situation.
