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Important Things to Know About Mortgage Fraud in Illinois

Posted on in Federal Crimes

Chicago mortgage fraud defense lawyerMortgage fraud is an extremely serious federal crime that is a growing problem in Illinois and many other states across the country. It refers to a wide range of illegal activities that involve making false or misleading statements on mortgage applications to obtain a loan or a larger loan than would otherwise be possible. Some common types of mortgage fraud include loan flipping, property flipping, straw buyers, and appraisal fraud. This type of fraud can result in significant financial losses for both borrowers and lenders and damage the overall housing market. 

Today, we will look deeper into mortgage fraud in Illinois and address everything you need to know about this serious offense. Your freedom may be at risk if you have been charged with mortgage fraud. Consider contacting an experienced federal crimes defense attorney who will ensure your rights remain protected and that a positive outcome can be pursued  in your favor. 

The Inner Workings of Mortgage Fraud

Mortgage fraud is a crime that involves providing false information to a lender to obtain a mortgage loan or to manipulate the loan process for personal gain. This can include falsifying income or employment information, misrepresenting the property's value, or using straw buyers to obtain a loan. Mortgage fraud is a federal crime and is, therefore, subject to the jurisdiction of the United States government. In Illinois, mortgage fraud can have serious consequences, including exorbitant fines and decades in prison.

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Can a Telemarketing Scam Constitute a Federal Crime?

Posted on in Federal Crimes

Chicago federal fraud defense attorneyFor many of us, we have accepted telemarketing scams as an annoying part of life and nothing more. While certainly annoying, you may be surprised to know that such scams are sometimes more serious than they may initially appear. In reality, many telemarketing scams may actually constitute wire fraud, a serious federal crime. If convicted of wire fraud charges, an offender may be subject to extended time in federal prison. 

It is important to understand what constitutes mail and wire fraud, as well as the associated penalties. If you have been charged with telemarketing fraud, do not hesitate to contact an experienced federal crimes defense attorney who will work to ensure your rights remain protected and that a positive outcome in your favor can be pursued in the case.

Understanding Federal Mail Fraud and Wire Fraud Charges

Many tactics used in scam calls are well-known, while others may be less well-known and, thus, more difficult to see through. Regardless of the complexity involved in a scam, these scams are illegal under federal law, no matter if they are perpetrated via the phone, mail, text, or email. In many cases, telemarketing scams are extensively planned with different goals. For example, goals may include trying to lure someone into buying something, participating in a phony business opportunity or investment, or even donating to a bogus charity. In other cases, a telemarketer may pretend they are a family member in dire need of assistance.

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What to Know About Property Crimes in Illinois

Posted on in Criminal Defense

Chicago criminal defense attorneyThere is a common misconception that if a crime is not violent or does not result in serious injury, it means that it is not a serious crime. However, this is not true. Non-violent crimes, such as most types of property crimes, are still serious offenses that can have a devastating impact on someone’s life, which is why you must take the situation seriously if you are charged with such a crime. 

Today, we will look at different types of property crimes in Illinois and what the associated penalties are. Suppose you have been arrested for a property crime. In that case, it is crucial that you consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney who has worked with clients accused of committing property crimes. Your lawyer will work to ensure that you avoid a conviction and thus can resume your life as quickly as possible. 

What Are Some Different Types of Property Crimes in Illinois? 

Property crimes are unique because there is a multitude of crimes that fall under this umbrella. Commonly prosecuted property crimes in Illinois include the following:  

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Everything You Need to Know About Federal Hate Crimes

Posted on in Federal Crimes

Chicago federal hate crime lawyerUnfortunately, in recent years, it seems as though hate crimes are becoming more and more common in America. Hate crimes are often motivated by race, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity, and it is not uncommon for a hate crime to be prosecuted as a federal crime. As a result, a conviction may result in extended prison sentences and fines, the destruction of someone's reputation, and the dissolving of personal relationships. 

Today, we will explore what a hate crime is and give some examples of what a hate crime may entail. If you have been accused of a hate crime, do not hesitate to contact a seasoned hate crimes attorney who will ensure your rights remain protected and that you understand your options moving forward. 

What Exactly Is a Hate Crime? 

In essence, a hate crime is a traditional criminal offense like vandalism, assault, or even murder, motivated by prejudice against a protected group. It is not uncommon for the term "hate crime" to be used interchangeably with "bias-motivated crime." Federal laws surrounding hate crimes may involve individuals with religious, sexual, race-related, or various other prejudices. It is likely that when someone commits a hate crime, they will also be charged with an underlying offense, like vandalism or murder, and then on top of those charges, they will be charged with a hate crime. 

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Things to Avoid When Facing Domestic Violence Charges

Posted on in Domestic Violence

Chicago criminal defense lawyerBeing charged with a violent crime like domestic violence is a grave matter that Illinois courts do not take lightly. Unfortunately, something that often plagues those accused of committing acts like domestic violence is that the public and law enforcement often act as though the accused is automatically guilty. This dangerous rush to judgment can unfairly impact the accused person and their chance of receiving fair treatment under the law. 

If you have been charged with committing acts of domestic violence, contact a knowledgeable domestic violence attorney to protect your rights and ensure they are not infringed upon. This blog will look at common mistakes people charged with domestic violence often make and how those mistakes can prove detrimental to the defendant. 

What Not to Do After You Are Arrested and Charged

You begin building your defense as soon as you are arrested. What you say and how you act during and after your arrest can and will be used against you, assuming you act improperly. Acting improperly may involve speaking too much with the police or trying to tell the police your side of the story. As soon as it is clear you are under arrest, do not speak to the police. Act respectfully and do not resist.

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