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Bank Fraud

There can be no misunderstanding about the profound seriousness with which criminal acts against financial institutions are viewed by the federal authorities. When this type of conduct is suspected, the massive resources of the government are invariably used in investigating and prosecuting offenders.

Because the penalties faced upon conviction are severe, the help of a Michigan federal bank fraud lawyer may be extremely important. A skilled federal fraud attorney could thoroughly review all the facts and evidence to help create an aggressive defense strategy.

Federal Bank Fraud Fundamentals

According to Title 18 U.S.C. §1344, it is a crime to defraud a federal financial institution of securities, property, or money. Conspiracy to commit fraud and attempted fraud are also crimes that bring identical penalties to bank fraud itself. Allegations of bank fraud are regularly lodged against those who are employed by financial institutions as well as others who may be involved in schemes to defraud those entities.

Falling under the protection of the bank fraud statute are institutions that are insured by the FDIC or the NCUA, banks chartered under federal law, and federally backed mortgage companies. Anyone with questions about allegations of bank fraud should consult with a Michigan federal bank fraud lawyer.

Common Scenarios in Michigan

Bank fraud can occur in a variety of ways, but common to all of them is the presence of deception or subterfuge designed to unlawfully secure funds from a financial institution. Some frequently prosecuted conduct in this category includes:

  • Dishonesty in connection with a loan application
  • Making empty ATM deposits
  • Engaging in phishing scams
  • Identity theft
  • Fraudulent accounting practices/falsified books
  • Depositing forged or stolen checks
  • Fraudulent structuring of currency trades
  • Unauthorized utilization of debit or credit cards

It should be noted that when bank fraud charges are issued, additional allegations such as money laundering, tax fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy, embezzlement, and/or violations of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act are also filed.

Effective Defense Strategies

An individual who is found guilty of bank fraud, conspiracy to commit bank fraud, or attempted bank fraud faces a possible prison sentence of 30 years and fines that reach upwards of $1 million. As such, it is critical for accused parties to fight aggressively to defend their futures and their freedom.

While the situation may initially appear quite dire, there are a number of defense tactics that may be available and effective in the hands of a seasoned Michigan bank fraud attorney. A skilled lawyer could delve into the facts of each case to determine whether it can be argued that the defendant did not execute the alleged scheme in a knowing manner, that they did not defraud the financial entity in question, or that they did not conceal material facts in obtaining funds. Alternatively, it may be possible to undermine the prosecution simply by establishing that the bank in question was not among the types explicitly protected by the federal statute.

Talk to a Michigan Federal Bank Fraud Attorney Today

Being accused of bank fraud is something that is certain to bring about feelings of worry, doubt, and confusion. Considering the stringent punishments likely to be handed down upon conviction, the time to begin fighting back is now.

If you are facing this sort of allegation, a Michigan federal bank fraud lawyer could work tirelessly to help you fight the charges and protect your future. Call today to set up a free consultation to learn more.

Call Today! FREE Consultation Lawyer and Receive Immediate Attention for Your Criminal Law Case Patrick T. Barone is a Michigan Super Lawyer, who has maintained continuous top attorney ratings since 2007. In addition, the Michigan native is the author of multiple books on OWI, DUI and criminal law. The OUIL attorney near me has lectured at over 80 legal seminars all over America. He leads Barone Defense Firm in providing aggressive legal warriors for each client's criminal case.

Contact us 24 hours a day at our law firm’s easy to remember toll-free number, 1-877-ALL-MICH or 877-255-6424, for a free criminal case review. The Michigan attorneys near me at Barone Defense Firm travel the entire Great Lakes State, to help citizens in legal trouble in Michigan for alleged criminal law violations.

For your FREE lawyer consultation, call today to learn how to protect yourself from a possible unwarranted conviction. What do you have to lose, when the free legal advice with our litigation team’s criminal lawyers near me can answer many tough questions?

Client Reviews
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Patrick Barone is the ONLY choice for DUI defense. He was realistic from the start and made it a point to look at my case before taking my money. As a business owner, when I think of attorneys, I think of the "shark infested waters. Patrick is a shark alright, but his prey is not the client; it's justice for his client. Ten stars Patrick!! Chris F.
★★★★★
Attorney Patrick Barone was very helpful and helped me understand the charge and sentence absolutely clearly. He also guided me through step by step helping me form a statement. His instructions were clear and detailed. It was obvious he cared about me understanding every important detail within my case. I would absolutely recommend this defense firm to anyone in need. Aaron B.
★★★★★
The Barone Defense Firm is the firm I recommend. They are truly concerned about the person, not just the legal issue, but the person as well. They are the most knowledgeable defense firm that I am aware of, having actually written the book on DWI Defense. If you are faced with a DWI you will not find a more professional and skilled law firm. But, most importantly, they care about how the accused individual recovers his or her life when the case is complete. Very remarkable group of lawyers. William H.