Wire Fraud Lawyer in Dallas
MARK A. PEREZ, ATTORNEY AT LAW
Wire fraud is a serious federal criminal charge. It may arise from emails, text messages, phone calls, online transactions, and other communications potentially connected to fraud. It’s common for federal investigators to begin collecting evidence long before the target of an investigation knows, so it is crucial for anyone who is being treated as a suspect to reach out to a wire fraud lawyer early.
I am Mark A. Perez, a former Dallas County white-collar crimes prosecutor. I bring more than 35 years of criminal litigation experience to wire fraud cases. If you are suspected or are already facing charges, schedule a consultation with me today.
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PROTECTING YOUR FUTURE AND YOUR LIBERTY
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What Is Wire Fraud?
Wire fraud is a federal offense under 18 U.S.C. 1343 and is generally recognized as a . Prosecutors may pursue these charges if they can demonstrate that an individual knowingly participated in a scheme to defraud, intended to defraud, and used (or caused the use of) interstate or foreign wire communications to advance that scheme.
The term “wire” may be misleading because people assume it refers to a wire transfer of money. However, online communications, telephone calls, electronic banking activity, and emails can all qualify.
What Does the Government Have to Prove in a Wire Fraud Case?
Part of what I, as your wire fraud attorney, will have to assess is what evidence the government has and what they intend to prove with it. Federal prosecutors have to establish a fraudulent scheme, knowing participation, fraudulent intent, and interstate or foreign wire communication tied to carrying out that scheme.
Intent may be a critical issue in your case. Just being involved in a transaction that turns out to be fraudulent or causes financial loss doesn’t automatically prove that an individual intended to commit fraud. A wire fraud lawyer may focus heavily on intent when building your defense.
What Types of Conduct Can Lead to Wire Fraud Charges?
- Investment transactions
- Online sales
- Insurance claims
- Real estate deals
- Financial services
- Government programs
- Alleged payment schemes
Can Emails, Texts, or Bank Transfers Result in Wire Fraud Charges?
Yes. While emails, texts, or bank transfers may seem harmless, they may be sufficient to count as the wire communication used to further a fraudulent scheme. Digital records often play a critical role in wire fraud investigations. Investigators may delve into messages, account records, and transaction histories to establish what a person did and what they intended.
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What Are the Penalties for Federal Wire Fraud?
Under federal law, wire fraud carries a maximum prison sentence of 20 years. However, there may be enhanced penalties in cases involving financial institutions or certain presidentially declared disaster and emergency benefits.
In addition to prison time, those convicted may have to pay substantial fines and restitution. There may also be forfeiture of property or funds tied to the offense. The penalties someone faces may be affected by their criminal history, alleged financial losses, number of victims, and other factors.
How Multiple Criminal Counts May Affect Your Wire Fraud Lawyer’s Strategy
Federal indictments may include multiple wire fraud counts if prosecutors can demonstrate separate electronic communications used to further a scheme. Each count may create additional legal exposure, which is one reason having a wire fraud attorney is so important.
Common Wire Fraud Defense Strategies
The right wire fraud defense for your case depends on the facts of your case. I may look at whether prosecutors can prove fraudulent intent, whether you knowingly participated in a scheme, and the government’s analysis of financial or electronic records.
Lack of Intent as a Wire Fraud Defense
Lack of intent can be a strong defense because fraudulent intent is a required part of the government’s case. Federal law doesn’t consider every bad investment, failed business deal, or broken contract to be wire fraud. As your wire fraud attorney, I may focus on showing that you acted in good faith, made a business error, or otherwise lacked an intent to commit fraud.
How a Wire Fraud Lawyer Can Help
As a former Dallas County white-collar crimes prosecutor, I bring firsthand insight into how the government builds and evaluates fraud cases. My experience with wire fraud charges and how they interact with other federal charges allows me to begin analyzing the government’s case against you immediately. As your wire fraud lawyer, I will communicate with investigators and prosecutors on your behalf, review subpoenas and document requests, analyze evidence, and prepare you for interviews and other legal proceedings.
Contact Me If You Need a Wire Fraud Lawyer
If you’re facing wire fraud charges, there’s a lot at stake. As your wire fraud lawyer, I can help you understand the case against you and figure out the best defense approach. Contact my team to schedule a consultation now.
