Wire Fraud Defense Attorney

Under U.S. Code 18 USC 1343, wire fraud is deemed a federal criminal offense. If convicted of wire fraud, suspects can face stiff fines and up to 30 years imprisonment in a federal penitentiary. Accusations of wire fraud are often associated with similar white collar fraud offenses including mail fraud, money laundering, insurance fraud and tax fraud.

Any allegation, investigation or indictment for a federal crime is a frightening and life-altering prospect. Astronomical fines and incarceration are just some of the far-reaching consequences of a wire fraud conviction. If you are under suspicion or are in the midst of a wire fraud investigation in Texas, protect your future by reaching out to wire fraud defense attorney Jeff King. There is no substitute for the expertise and unwavering advocacy that a qualified criminal defense lawyer can provide during your time of need. Jeff King brings a thorough knowledge of the state and federal criminal justice system and a sincere interest in protecting the rights of his clients.

What is Wire Fraud

Wire fraud is the intentional act of using an interstate wire communications device as a means of carrying out a scheme to defraud another of money, property or anything of value. The elements of wire fraud mirror those of mail fraud, but require the use of a “wire, radio, or television communication in interstate or foreign commerce.” Given today’s advanced technology, wire fraud encompasses many forms of electronic or wire communication across state lines, including faxes, phone calls, text messages, email, Skype, Facebook, Twitter, video chats and other Internet platforms used to communicate messages across state lines.

Considered a white collar crime, wire fraud can be prosecuted in situations where evidence shows the perpetrator had the ability or the intent to carry out an artifice to defraud others of money, property or assets.

In order to secure a felony conviction of wire fraud, prosecutors are tasked with proving that:

The defendant willfully and knowingly conceived a scheme to defraud, secure money or property by means of false pretenses, false promises or misrepresentation
The defendant knowingly delivered communications by wire transmission in interstate commerce for the sole purpose of defrauding an individual or entity.

Examples of wire fraud include:

Emailing false invoices
Using false pretenses to coerce a bank wire transfer
Phishing scams to solicit money
Using insider information to buy securities through an online brokerage
Devising a fraudulent online auction to scam bidders
Selling pirated movies online
Hacking into an online account to perpetrate a fraud
Attempt to defraud a financial institution using computer malware

Federal Wire Fraud Laws

Federal wire fraud statutes focus on the type of scheme being committed with special attention paid to acts directed at “defrauding a class of persons, or the general public, with a substantial pattern of conduct.” In wire fraud cases arising from isolated transactions between individuals causing minor loss to victims, criminal prosecution is generally limited to state courts.

However, the U.S. Department of Justice has adopted special provisions for any type of wire fraud that negatively impacts financial institutions in the United States, or fraudulent acts that are made in connection with a natural disaster or emergency as defined in the Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, section 102.

Such “aggravated” acts of wire fraud come with harsh penalties including fines of up to $1 million dollars and up to 30 years in a federal prison. It’s important to note than even non-aggravated acts of wire fraud can result in prison sentence as well as hefty fines.

Over the past two decades, federal prosecutors have convicted thousands of individuals alleged to have defrauded businesses, banks and individuals through Ponzi schemes, computer phishing scams and other schemes using interstate wire communications.

Given the seriousness of a wire fraud investigation or possible indictment, it’s imperative to secure experienced legal representation right away.

“Competent and Compassionate”

I found Jeff to be a competent and compassionate advocate. As a client, he was the “voice” that I needed him to be to achieve a good result. He allowed me to communicate my needs to him and then diligently went to work to attain them. I would recommend him without hesitation.

- ReneeFraud client

“I was given a fair and positive outcome.”

With the type circumstance I had, it was not a hard case nor one that required a court visit or in front of a Judge but it did take some research and many hours of information gathering. I was given to the point, fair and accurate information by Jeffery King and he stuck with me through the whole ordeal. This was not only vital but very personable and I appreciated that to the fullest. I felt comfortable and positive through the entire situation and was given a fair and positive outcome. I thank Jeff King and his other staff that were involved for all they did.

- StevenGovernment contractor

“Prepared, Aggressive & Passionate about the Defense”

As the father of a recent active duty Air Force client of Mr. King’s, and being intimately involved day to day with the case, I can say without hesitation nor mental reservation, Jeff King is a consummate professional. Jeff was not only prepared, aggressive, and passionate about the defense, he also made the time to explain in detail every facet of the trial as it progressed. Having an attorney of Jeff’s caliber in our corner bestowed a feeling of confidence to our family, which was a critical factor in our ability to manage the stressfulness inherent to such serious allegations. Jeff prepared the entire family for every scenario, good and bad, and for that we are forever grateful. Upon receipt of the not guilty verdict and celebrating the obvious joy we felt that this “created adventure” had now come to an end, also came the realization that not only had he won this case, and with it our son’s continued freedom and innocence, but we had made a friend of the highest regard. Our family cannot thank Mr. King enough for his excellent representation on behalf of our son, but also for the lofty amount of integrity and humility demonstrated during the most trying time of our lives. Much respect and Semper Fi.

- BrentMilitary Client’s Father

“Jeff is the best!”

I thought my life was over when I was accused of a horrible crime at a general court-martial. From the moment I met Jeff, he instilled confidence in my case and showed a real enthusiasm for what he does. Be warned: Jeff will put you to work! He prepares for battle and expects you to contribute. He is confident in court and I enjoyed watching the jury respond to him. In the end, I was found NOT GUILTY to all charges! I am so grateful that I hired Jeff to defend me.

- Military Law Client

“Jeff sets the standard.”

Jeff was amazing! He handled my case through the end of the Article 32 hearing, and set the basis for my acquittal. If it had been any other IO than the one it was, I am certain it would have been dismissed right then, as all the objections he made in the Article 32 were later upheld by the Military Judge, and they been upheld at the Article 32 hearing, it would have been dismissed on the spot. His knowledge, and preparation made all the difference in my case, and his relentless pursuit of the truth showed through. He will always be my first recommendation to anyone who needs legal help.

- SPC C, US Army

Dallas Wire Fraud Defense Attorney

Jeff King is a skilled criminal defense attorney in Dallas who understands the demoralizing effects of being subject to a government investigation concerning wire fraud allegations. With the possibility of incarceration, job loss, and a felony record, you need a competent attorney in your corner to develop the best legal defense.

Using his vast experience defending clients in many types of federal fraud cases, Jeff King will attempt to preempt formal investigations, and work diligently to reduce charges or negotiate a plea bargain if necessary.

Retaining professional legal representation is key to a successful outcome. Call the Law Office of Jeffery King to schedule a confidential consultation free of charge.