Wire and mail fraud are serious federal offenses with significant penalties. The complexities of these charges require an experienced and dedicated Atlanta white-collar criminal defense lawyer. At Griffin Durham Tanner & Clarkson LLC, a wire fraud defense lawyer serving Atlanta specializes in navigating the intricate legal landscape surrounding these accusations to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case.
Griffin Durham Tanner & Clarkson LLC is the leading fraud defense firm in Atlanta
Griffin Durham Tanner & Clarkson LLC offers the expertise of a large firm with the flexibility of a small team. Our attorneys have extensive experience serving as high-ranking government prosecutors and working in large law firms. The firm excels in high-stakes cases, securing favorable outcomes in complex litigation.
We provide creative fee arrangements, including fixed fees and hybrid arrangements, tailored to meet clients’ needs. Our versatility and personalized approach make us a strong choice for legal defense representation. We will work diligently to protect your rights and future.
See why clients like you trust our expertise
Choosing the right legal team can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Here is why our firm stands out and how we can help:
- Expertise and experience: Our white-collar criminal defense attorneys have extensive experience defending clients against wire and mail fraud charges. We understand the intricacies of federal law and the most successful strategies in these types of cases.
- Personalized defense: Every case is unique, and we take the time to understand your specific situation, tailoring our defense strategy to your needs.
- Aggressive representation: We fight aggressively for our clients’ rights. We challenge every aspect of the prosecution’s case and leave no stone unturned in our defense efforts.
- Strong track record: Our firm has a proven track record of success in defending against federal criminal prosecutions, including those involving wire fraud charges. We have helped many clients achieve favorable outcomes, from dismissed charges to reduced sentences.
- Compassionate support: Facing criminal charges is stressful and overwhelming, but we are there for you, keeping you informed and involved throughout the legal process.
Griffin Durham Tanner & Clarkson LLC has experience handling all types of wire and mail fraud
Wire and mail fraud can take many forms, often involving sophisticated schemes that exploit technology or trust. Some common examples include:
- Ponzi schemes: Using funds from new investors to pay promised returns to earlier investors, creating a false sense of profitability
- Investment scams: Fraudulently promising high returns on investments that do not exist
- Phishing scams: Fraudulently attempting to obtain sensitive information by pretending to be a trustworthy entity via electronic communications
- Telemarketing fraud: Defrauding victims through deceptive telemarketing practices
- Identity theft: Using someone else’s personal information, obtained through mail or wire communications, to commit fraud
- Advance fee scams: Demanding upfront fees for services or opportunities that never materialize
- Mortgage fraud: Misrepresenting information on loan applications to obtain financing for properties
- Healthcare fraud: Billing for services not rendered or submitting false claims to insurance companies
We work hard to help you avoid penalties for wire and mail fraud
Wire and mail fraud are prosecuted at the federal level, often involving agencies like the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of Justice (DOJ). The penalties for wire and mail fraud are severe, reflecting the seriousness with which federal authorities treat these offenses.
Convictions for wire and mail fraud can result in:
- Imprisonment: Each count of wire or mail fraud can result in up to 20 years in federal prison. If the fraud affects a financial institution or involves certain circumstances, the sentence can increase to 30 years.
- Fines: Convictions can also lead to hefty fines, up to $250,000 or more for individuals.
- Restitution: Courts often require defendants to pay restitution to victims, compensating them for their financial losses.
- Forfeiture: Defendants may be required to forfeit any assets or proceeds obtained through fraudulent activities.
Griffin Durham Tanner & Clarkson LLC will tailor your defense against wire and mail fraud charges in Atlanta
Crafting an effective defense strategy against wire and mail fraud charges requires a thorough understanding of federal laws, as well as the specific circumstances of each case. Our approach is to investigate the facts meticulously, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and develop a robust defense strategy tailored to your situation.
Key defense strategies may include:
- Lack of intent: One of the primary elements the prosecution must prove is intent to defraud. Your wire fraud defense lawyer in Atlanta can argue that there was no intent to deceive or defraud, undermining the prosecution’s case.
- Mistake or misunderstanding: Our Atlanta mail fraud attorneys can argue that any misleading information or actions resulted from a genuine mistake or misunderstanding rather than a deliberate fraudulent scheme.
- Insufficient evidence: Your Wire Fraud Defense Lawyer in Atlanta will scrutinize the prosecution’s evidence, challenging its validity and seeking to exclude any evidence obtained unlawfully or that is unreliable.
- Violation of rights: Any violations of your constitutional rights during the investigation or arrest process can be grounds for suppressing evidence or dismissing charges.
Understanding what constitutes wire and mail fraud
Wire and mail fraud involves using communication tools, such as telephones, email, the internet, or postal services, to carry out or attempt to carry out a scheme to defraud someone of money or property. These charges are brought under federal law and can be very complex due to the involvement of multiple jurisdictions and federal agencies.
- Wire fraud: Defined under 18 U.S.C. § 1343, wire fraud involves using interstate electronic communications to further a fraudulent scheme. Those communications can include emails, cellular telephone calls, faxes, or internet communications.
- Mail fraud: Defined under 18 U.S.C. § 1341, mail fraud involves using the postal service or any interstate carrier to execute a fraudulent scheme.
We’ll support you at every step of the fraud defense process
Navigating the legal process in wire and mail fraud cases can be daunting, but our experienced team of wire fraud defense lawyers in Atlanta is here to guide you every step of the way. Here is what you can expect.
Investigation
The investigation phase is critical. Federal authorities typically conduct extensive investigations before bringing charges, often involving wiretaps, surveillance, and analysis of financial records. If you suspect you are under investigation, it is crucial to seek legal counsel from our Atlanta wire and mail fraud defense lawyers immediately.
Indictment
If the government believes there is enough evidence, they will seek an indictment from a grand jury. An indictment is a formal charge that initiates the criminal prosecution. Being indicted does not mean you are guilty, but you need a strong defense strategy.
Arraignment
After indictment, you will be arraigned in federal court, where you will be formally charged and asked to enter a guilty or not guilty plea. At this stage, having legal representation is vital to understand the charges and the potential implications.
Pre-trial motions
We will file pre-trial motions to challenge the evidence against you, seek dismissal of charges, or limit the prosecution’s ability to use certain evidence. This stage is crucial for shaping the course of your defense.
Trial
If your case goes to trial, we will vigorously defend you in court. This involves presenting evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and making compelling arguments to the jury. Our goal is to create reasonable doubt about your guilt.
Sentencing
If convicted, the sentencing phase determines the penalties. We will advocate for the most lenient sentence possible, considering factors such as your background, the circumstances of the offense, and any mitigating factors.
Appeals
If you are convicted, you have the right to appeal the decision. Out skilled appellate attorneys can argue that legal errors affected the trial’s outcome and seek to overturn the conviction or reduce the sentence.
Meet with Griffin Durham Tanner & Clarkson LLC for superior defense against Atlanta wire fraud charges
Wire and mail fraud charges are serious and complex, requiring the expertise of seasoned legal professionals. Our wire fraud defense lawyer in the Atlanta area is dedicated to providing the highest level of defense, ensuring that your rights are protected and you have the best chance of a favorable outcome. Contact us today at (404) 891-9150 to schedule a confidential consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help you.
We answer common questions about mail and wire fraud cases
What is the difference between wire fraud and mail fraud?
Wire fraud involves using electronic communications, such as email or phone, to carry out a fraudulent scheme, while mail fraud involves using postal services or private carriers. Both are federal offenses with similar penalties.
Can wire and mail fraud charges be brought together?
Yes, it is common for wire and mail fraud charges to be brought together because such schemes often involve the use of both electronic communications and the mail.
What should I do if I am under investigation for wire or mail fraud?
If you suspect you are under investigation, it is crucial to seek legal counsel immediately. Do not speak to investigators without an attorney, as anything you say can be used against you.
How long can wire and mail fraud investigations last?
Investigations can last several months or even years, depending on the cases’ complexity. Federal authorities often conduct extensive investigations before bringing charges.
Can wire and mail fraud charges be reduced or dismissed?
Yes, with a strong defense strategy, it is possible to have charges reduced or dismissed. This can involve challenging the evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, or demonstrating a lack of intent to defraud.
What are the possible defenses against wire and mail fraud charges?
Common defenses include lack of intent, mistake or misunderstanding, insufficient evidence, and violations of constitutional rights. Each case is unique, and the best defense strategy will depend on the specific facts of your case.
How can an Atlanta wire fraud defense lawyer help me?
Our defense lawyers can provide critical support, including investigating the case, challenging the prosecution’s evidence, negotiating plea deals, and representing you in court. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Helpful resources for those facing white-collar criminal charges in Atlanta
Government agencies that investigate white-collar crime
Our office in Atlanta
75 14th Street NE, Suite 2250
Atlanta, GA 30309
(404) 891-9150