Bank fraud charges are serious federal offenses that can result in lengthy prison sentences and hefty fines. An experienced defense attorney can help.
Understanding Bank Fraud
Bank fraud is using deceptive tactics or schemes to obtain money, assets, or other property owned by a financial institution, or to obtain money from depositors by fraudulently posing as a bank. This type of fraud is on the rise, and surprisingly the majority of victims are age 40 and younger. This fact is due to the prevalence of online banking and the convenience of mobile payment apps.
In most cases of bank fraud, the intended victim is the financial institution itself. There are various techniques used to commit bank fraud, but some common types include:
- Using stolen checks
- Impersonating a bank or bank employees, either by phone, in-person or online
- Forging checks, which includes altering or adding information on the check
- Providing false financial information to a bank, orally or in writing, to a bank
The FBI works with banks as well as other law enforcement agencies to investigate bank fraud and bring charges against those who commit it. Convictions of bank fraud can culminate in up to 30 years in federal prison, fines of up to $1 million, or both. A conviction of bank fraud can also lead to restitution orders, forfeiture of assets, and a criminal record that will greatly hinder any opportunity at a successful career in the future.
If you are charged with bank fraud, you need to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. The future of not only your career, but your lifestyle, is on the line.
The Importance of a Qualified Defense Attorney
If federal bank fraud charges have been filed against you, time is of the essence to hire a qualified, skillful defense attorney. The court system moves swiftly when it comes to prosecuting these types of charges, as they are usually high interest and include the loss of a lot of money. A competent attorney will guide you through the legal process, protect your constitutional rights, and craft a defense strategy that is specific to the charges against you.
A qualified defense attorney is essential for the following reasons:
- Understanding of Federal Law: Bank fraud is governed by complex rules and regulations. An experienced defense attorney knows and understands the law and will do their best to apply their knowledge to your case.
- Thorough Evidence Analysis: Bank fraud cases include a lot of evidence, including financial records, digital evidence, and witness statements. A knowledgeable defense attorney will sift through all of the evidence for weaknesses in the case.
- Negotiating with Prosecutors: Your defense attorney will know whether a plea deal is something you should consider. A prepared defense attorney can negotiate lighter sentencing, reduced charges, or suggest alternative penalties that would work in your favor.
- Presenting a Strong Case: If your case goes to trial, an accomplished defense attorney will argue your side of the situation, challenge the prosecution on their evidence, and represent you in the best light.
The seriousness of hiring a skilled, experienced defense attorney to represent you in a bank fraud case cannot be stressed enough. The consequences of a conviction are very high stakes. The amount of preparation, decision making, and work that needs to be put into defending bank fraud charges cannot be underestimated.
Protect Your Future by Choosing the Right Defense Attorney
When selecting a defense attorney, look for someone with criminal defense experience in federal and white-collar crime. An attorney who knows the ins and outs of federal crime investigations and who has a background in defending against these types of charges will be better able to represent you than a general practitioner.
Facing these types of charges can be life altering. You want an attorney who is confident in the courtroom, but who also listens to you and communicates well. The legal team at the Law Offices of Robert J. DeGroot is the right call to make. Our attorneys have decades of experience representing clients against white collar crime charges, including bank fraud.
Making the right decision in a criminal defense attorney can make a huge difference in the outcome of the charges against you. Trust that the knowledgeable, experienced, skillful team of attorneys at the Law Offices of Robert J. DeGroot will do their absolute best for you, or your loved one.
Have you or someone you know been charged with bank fraud? Reach out to the Law Offices of Robert J. DeGroot today!
