Understanding Mail Fraud

Mail fraud is a serious federal crime that involves using the postal system or private mail carriers to trick people or businesses out of money, property, or honest services. It is frequently prosecuted alongside other criminal charges, potentially triggering RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act) statutes. Every single piece of mail sent as part of the scheme is counted as a separate offense.

The penalties for a conviction are harsh. You could face fines reaching $250,000 and prison sentences of up to 20 years. Because these penalties apply to each individual count, the total punishment can add up quickly.

If you are accused of this crime, getting help from a knowledgeable federal defense attorney is essential. At Mountaineer Law Group, we have a team of committed legal professionals ready to assist you. We will work to ease your stress and provide the guidance you need during this difficult time.

What Constitutes Federal Mail Fraud?

Under federal law, it is illegal to use the mail to cheat others out of their assets or rights. In Morgantown, prosecutors must prove two main elements to secure a conviction:

• The defendant created a plan to deceive.
• The defendant had specific intent to defraud the victim.

Prosecutors often add mail fraud to other indictments to increase the potential sentence. For instance, it might be tacked onto cases involving tax evasion or mortgage schemes. Sometimes, if evidence for other crimes is weak, the government will lean on mail fraud charges to secure a win. A Morgantown criminal lawyer can help analyze the prosecution’s strategy.

It is crucial to understand that every single letter or package sent counts as a separate crime. Even if a specific scheme is simply mentioned in a mailed document, it can result in a conviction. A skilled defense attorney understands exactly what elements the government must prove and will build a strong strategy to challenge their case.

How a Defense Attorney Can Assist You

Dealing with federal charges is overwhelming, especially given the strict laws and aggressive prosecutors involved. However, our experienced legal team is prepared to fight for you. We will investigate every angle of your situation to find the best possible resolution.

To convict you, the government must prove you acted with the intent to defraud. Our goal is to show the opposite—that you did not intend to trick or cheat anyone. A qualified Morgantown DUI attorney from our team can also assist if your case involves substance-related offenses alongside fraud.

Because this is a white-collar crime, penalties vary based on the specifics. If the fraud targeted a financial institution, the prison sentence could increase to 30 years.

Our lead federal defense attorney has extensive experience handling complex cases, including mail fraud. We are also skilled at negotiating plea deals to reduce penalties when appropriate. It is vital to contact a Morgantown criminal lawyer immediately after being charged. Our team stays current on all legal trends and possesses deep knowledge of fraud statutes to provide you with excellent service. You can trust us to support you through the entire legal process.

Contact a Mail Fraud Attorney Today

Do not wait to get legal help. Schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your case with a dedicated defense professional. Contact us online or call (304) 381-3656 to speak with a Morgantown DUI attorney. We serve clients throughout Pennsylvania, including Berks County. Let a criminal lawyer from Mountaineer Law Group fight for your future.