Florida Ponzi Scheme Lawyer
Ponzi schemes are a type of fraud offense involving structured, series of acts intended to result in financial gain. A person could be investigated by multiple US and Florida governmental agencies, and the charges are often coupled with tax evasion, wire and mail fraud, and violations of securities laws. If found guilty, the individual could face serious penalties for each count, potentially leading to hundreds or thousands of separate crimes. Combined, these and other factors make Ponzi scheme cases extremely complicated.
At Lehman Tax Law, our team has in-depth knowledge of the relevant laws and extensive experience defending clients facing Ponzi scheme charges. If you are being investigated or have already been arrested, the time is now to contact our office. We can set up a free consultation with a Florida Ponzi scheme lawyer who will fight for your rights, but you may also find it useful to review some of the relevant legal concepts.
Overview of Ponzi Schemes
The key provisions prohibiting Ponzi crimes are found in Florida’s criminal code on false pretenses and fraud, as well as several federal statutes. Generally, a Ponzi scheme involves collecting funds to allow new members to join a group for purposes of investment. Organizers promise a high rate of return with minimal risk, but the typical plan does not involve investment at all. Any funds paid out go to the organizers and core members, diverted from amounts they collect purportedly for “investment.”
If charged with running a Ponzi scheme, you could face several years’ incarceration, hefty fines, and restitution to pay back affected individuals. However, an arrest does not equal a conviction. Government officials who need to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt can face challenges in obtaining evidence and linking it to unlawful acts. As such, there are multiple defense strategies to fight the charges.
What to do if You are the Target of a Ponzi Scheme Probe
The nature of the offense means that you could be the subject of an official investigation well before your arrest. Officials employ forensic accountants, computer specialists, and other professionals to gather enough evidence to obtain an indictment from a grand jury. Still, there are a few things you can do to protect your rights:
- As soon as you become aware of an investigation, contact an experienced Ponzi scheme defense attorney.
- If you have been arrested, exercise your right to remain silent. Do not make any statements, even if you are professing your innocence.
- Do not answer any questions posed by investigators without your lawyer being present. You could incriminate yourself and negatively impact your case.
Value Can Be Lost Without Good Professional Advice.
