Wire and mail fraud are actually separate crimes. They are often mentioned together. They both involve attempted to defraud another person, entity, or business and are very serious crimes.

For this reason, they warrant the attention of a federal wire fraud lawyer. If you have been accused of wire or mail fraud, it would behoove you to consult with a federal defense lawyer immediately to discuss the details of your case and develop a plan for moving forward.

Wire Fraud Charges

First, mail fraud is when a person schemes to defraud another person, business, or entity utilizing United States Mail, UPS, FedEx or other private companies. While wire fraud is similar, instead of using mail the person uses “the wires.”

This means transmitting through the radio, television, telephone, email, or internet.

Furthermore, if the scheme involves both methods of communication, the individual can be charged with both mail fraud and wire fraud.

Fraud Against Who?

While many fraudulent schemes seek to defraud the federal government, laws do not require that the victim/target be the federal government. However, certain circumstances will include enhanced penalties for targeting the federal government.

How Is Wire Fraud Charged?

Typically, the government charged mail fraud and/or wire fraud in addition to base fraud charges. For example, a defendant is accused of engaging in insurance fraud.

They would have used internet, email, or phone calls to accomplish this. They may be charged with either wire fraud, mail fraud, or both. It depends on their methods. Also, you will almost always see these charges accompanying core charges. For this reason, it is important to contact a wire fraud lawyer as soon as possible.

Misconceptions About Wire Fraud

There are a few misconceptions about mail and wire fraud, with the most common being that you must successfully enact your fraud in order to be prosecuted. In truth, the attempt alone can lead to prosecution, whether you have been successful or not.

Another common misconception is that if you don’t use the USPS, you can’t be prosecuted for mail fraud. As we discussed earlier, even using private companies such as UPS and FedEx can lead to prosecution.

Because internet and email have become so prevalent in today’s society, wire fraud is no longer dependent on using a money transfer service or a phone call. The statue regarding wire fraud is broad and encompasses the use of these modern methods.

Fraud Outside of The U.S.

Can a person be charged for things that occur outside of the United States?  Yes, if the offense affects the U.S. or a U.S. citizen or entity.

You are liable for the criminal conduct and prosecuted in the United States. For example, let’s say you created a website based in your home country of Switzerland. You use it to defraud people in the United States.

Even though you, nor your website are within the United States, The U.S. government can still prosecute you for victimizing citizens in the United States.

Federal Wire Fraud Lawyer

Investigations into mail and wire fraud charges are severe. Prosecutions usually carry heavy charges. Therefore, it is crucial to consult a federal wire fraud lawyer as soon as you can.

Discuss your charges and start building your case. If you are facing charges such as these, contact King Campbell Poretz Mitchell today. Our experienced attorneys can help you build your case and navigate the court proceedings.