If you’ve been accused of mail fraud in Lexington, Kentucky, you might be confused about what steps to take next. Federal white collar crime charges like mail fraud are serious and can move quickly, with investigators gathering detailed evidence before making an arrest.
By the time a defendant is officially charged, law enforcement officials have likely been looking at them for a long time. This is why it’s important to speak with a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers can help you protect your rights when you’re facing mail fraud allegations in Kentucky.
Call us today at 859-569-4014 to schedule a free consultation with a Lexington mail fraud lawyer.
Table of Contents
Why Hire Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers If You’re Arrested for Mail Fraud in Lexington, KY?
Taking on federal mail fraud charges in Lexington, KY, without the right team is risky. Suhre & Associates stands apart because we offer genuine and experienced support.
Clients hire Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers because we offer:
- Access to a team of skilled attorneys, including a former police officer and a former prosecutor, who understand both sides of a criminal case.
- Decades of courtroom experience, with 100 years of combined legal experience.
- A strong track record, evidenced by hundreds of positive ratings from previous clients.
- Commitment to keeping you informed with answers to your questions and updates each step of the way, so you never feel lost or uncertain.
The federal government takes mail fraud cases very seriously, but you don’t have to face them alone. Call us today for your free and confidential consultation with a Lexington criminal defense lawyer.
Overview of Mail Fraud in Kentucky
Mail fraud is a federal crime that involves planning or carrying out a scheme meant to cheat or trick someone out of money, property, or something of value, and using the mail system as part of this plan.
First, the prosecution must show that a person intentionally made a plan to deceive someone, or took steps that amounted to fraudulent acts. Second, they must prove that the defendant used the United States Postal Service, or any kind of mail carrier like FedEx or UPS, to send something as part of their effort to pull off this scheme.
Even something as basic as mailing a letter, contract, or false document can meet this requirement. The mailing does not even need to be the central part of the scheme; any use of the mail system for the purpose of helping make the fraud happen is sufficient for charges to be brought.
Federal prosecutors have a lot of experience building these cases, so if you’re charged or investigated for mail fraud in Kentucky, getting a defense lawyer is your very first step.
What Are the Penalties for a Mail Fraud Conviction in Kentucky?
Mail fraud is a felony under federal law, and a conviction comes with harsh consequences.
For a conviction of standard mail fraud, you may face:
- Up to 20 years in federal prison
- Large fines to be determined by the court
- Restitution payments to the alleged victims
- Forfeiture of certain assets you may own
Enhanced penalties may apply if the offense either affects a financial institution or involves a federally declared disaster. In these cases, a conviction may result in up to 30 years in federal prison and fines of up to $1,000,000.
A conviction for mail fraud can change every part of your life, making it important to act quickly and get experienced legal help if you are being investigated or charged with mail fraud. Our Lexington mail fraud attorneys are ready to help.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested for Mail Fraud?
Getting charged with mail fraud in Kentucky is scary, but a strong defense can make a major difference. The legal team you choose can analyze your situation and pick the right strategy to attack the prosecution’s case and protect your rights.
Lack of Intent to Defraud
A major part of mail fraud is that you must have purposefully tried to cheat or deceive someone. If there’s no proof you meant to commit fraud or you were simply making a mistake without that intent, this defense can be raised.
No Use of the Mail for the Fraud
Prosecutors have to show that you used the mail as part of carrying out the fraud. If every action took place by phone, online, or face-to-face, and never relied on mail, your defense lawyer can raise this issue. However, you’d then likely be charged with wire fraud instead.
False Accusations or Mistaken Identity
Sometimes people are wrongly accused or set up by others. Proving that you didn’t participate, or highlighting problems with how authorities identified you, can successfully fight the charge.
Insufficient Evidence
Without documents, credible witness statements, records, or clear communication that really ties you to the alleged scheme, it’s very hard for prosecutors to meet the high burden of proof that’s required in criminal cases.
Your Lexington criminal defense attorney can review all the evidence and conduct their own investigation to determine the best way to defend you.
Contact Us Today to Secure a Free Case Evaluation With Our Lexington Mail Fraud Lawyers
Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers has the experience, skill, and resources to challenge these charges at every turn. Our attorneys can examine every part of your case, including how evidence was gathered and whether procedures or your rights were violated.
Don’t wait if you believe you’re being investigated—even if you haven’t been charged yet—get legal help immediately. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Lexington mail fraud attorney.
