If you are facing criminal charges for federal wire fraud, then you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure about what to do. It is important to understand the legal implications of a federal wire fraud charge so that you can make the best decisions for your case. In this blog post, we will explore what federal wire fraud is, the potential penalties associated with it, and the defenses available to fight a charge of federal wire fraud.

What is Federal Wire Fraud?

Federal wire fraud occurs when someone uses an interstate or foreign communication device such as radio, television, telephone, satellite, computer system or network in order to commit a fraud or other felony offense. The purpose of the communication must be part of a scheme to defraud someone out of money or property. For example, if an individual sends emails across state lines with false information in order to obtain money from someone else, then they could be charged with federal wire fraud.

Potential Penalties

The potential penalties for federal wire fraud are quite severe. Depending on the case and the amount of money involved in the alleged crime, an individual charged with this offense could face up to 20 years in prison and/or fines ranging from $250 thousand – $1 million dollars. Additionally, if convicted of federal wire fraud, a person may also be subject to restitution and asset forfeiture which means that any property gained through the fraudulent activity will be seized by the government.

Defenses Against Federal Wire Fraud Charges

It is possible for defendants facing charges for federal wire fraud to mount a defense against these charges. A few possible defenses include showing that there was no intent to defraud anyone; demonstrating that there was no actual loss; proving that there was entrapment by law enforcement; or providing evidence that all parties were aware of and agreed upon any misrepresentations made during communication between parties involved in the alleged crime. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help evaluate your case and determine which defense strategy would work best for your situation.

Everyone deserves their day in court and it is important that individuals facing charges related to federal wire fraud understand their rights under the law as well as all available options when fighting these types of charges. With proper legal representation and a thorough understanding of how these cases are prosecuted, it is possible to successfully defend against allegations of federal wire fraud. If you have been charged with this serious crime contact an experienced criminal defense attorney right away so they can begin building your defense strategy today!