Mail Fraud

Mail fraud is the federal offense of mailing items which are intended to defraud others of property or money. Mail fraud includes specific actions: planning to commit fraud, creating a scheme for the purpose of committing fraud, and mailing or having another mail items which were intended to defraud. While these charges seem easy to prove with physical evidence, the intention of the defendant must be proven in order to secure a conviction. Lack of criminal intent may be enough to result in an acquittal or dismissal.

Because it involves any scheme wherein the postal system is used to carry out or attempt to carry out a scheme, mail fraud may be associated with various other types of fraud and white collar crimes, including credit card fraud, identity theft and government fraud.

Penalties for the Federal Crime of Mail Fraud

Mail fraud is defined and the penalties outlined by Title 18 of the United States Code, Chapter 63. It is a particularly serious federal crime and is unique in that a defendant may face separate federal charges for what would have been a violation of state law, simply because the postal system was involved in the attempt or commission of fraud.

When mail fraud is committed against a financial institution, a conviction may result in extreme penalties, including up to 30 years in prison and fines which may total up to $1,000,000.

When you have more information of a certain topic, you will be better prepared to make intelligent choices that will have a positive influence on your future. Whether you are seeking more information regarding mail fraud or have been accused of this crime and are seeking legal counsel, you may find this website extremely helpful. Feel free to look around or to use our directory to find a local attorney to fight your charges.

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