Mortgage Fraud Lawyer

This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founder, Daniel Perlman who has years of legal experience as a Federal Crimes attorney. Our last modified date shows when this page was last updated & reviewed.

Last Modified: April 1, 2025
April 1, 2025
Mortgage Fraud Lawyer

Mortgage fraud lawyer and mortgage fraud attorney teams at Perlman Defense Federal Criminal Lawyers fight for clients facing serious federal charges. We offer strong legal support to people caught in mortgage fraud and real estate fraud cases nationwide. Our experienced representation helps protect your future when government investigators start looking your way.

Our Mortgage Fraud Lawyer Defends Your Rights

At Perlman Defense Federal Criminal Lawyers, we bring years of specialized experience to mortgage fraud cases. Our criminal defense attorneys know how federal prosecutors build their cases. We work hard to protect your rights every step of the way.

Being charged with mortgage fraud turns your life upside down. That's why our team stands by your side from start to finish. Our mortgage fraud lawyers create defense strategies just for you.

Get the defense you deserve for your mortgage fraud case.
call us today at (818) 383-6692

Understanding Mortgage Fraud Charges

Understanding Mortgage Fraud Charges

Mortgage fraud occurs when someone knowingly makes false statements during the mortgage loan process. This includes lying on applications, hiding material facts from lenders, or taking part in schemes for illegal profit. Federal law treats these actions as serious crimes.

The FBI actively investigates these cases. It looks for patterns that harm banks, mortgage lenders, and the financial system. When building a case, the FBI often gathers evidence for months before filing charges.

  • False statements about income.
  • Hiding debts or credit problems.
  • Misrepresenting property values.
  • Using straw buyers.

You can face charges for actions you may not have realized were illegal. Even mistakes on forms can lead to criminal charges if prosecutors think you meant to deceive lenders.

Common Types of Mortgage Fraud Schemes

Several schemes appear regularly in mortgage fraud cases:

  • Income falsification: Buyers lie about earnings to get bigger loans
  • Appraisal fraud: Properties receive inflated appraisals from dishonest appraisers
  • Straw buyer schemes: Someone with good credit gets a loan for someone else
  • Real estate fraud: Investors or sellers hide property defects or lie about real estate values

Law enforcement watches for these patterns. Bank officials report suspicious activities. Financial institution fraud often starts when lenders flag unusual applications or when property values don't match market trends. Real estate fraud cases frequently involve multiple parties across the mortgage lending process.

The Seriousness of Mortgage Fraud as a Federal Offense

The Seriousness of Mortgage Fraud as a Federal Offense

Mortgage fraud violates federal law and carries harsh penalties. The government takes financial fraud very seriously because it harms the banking system and the real estate market. Since 2008, federal agencies have stepped up their efforts to catch those involved in mortgage schemes.

When mortgage brokers, loan officers, appraisers, or investors take part in fraud, they risk years in federal prison. The FBI works with the attorney general to build strong cases against all parties involved in real estate fraud. Your freedom and financial future hang in the balance when facing these charges. That's why you need a strong fraud defense team.

Penalties for Mortgage Fraud Convictions

If convicted of mortgage fraud, you could face up to 30 years in federal prison and fines of up to $1 million. The court may also order you to repay all money gained through fraud.

Beyond jail and fines, a conviction damages your reputation and career. You might lose professional licenses and face ongoing challenges with credit and housing. Once convicted, many doors close for good.

How Federal Investigations Unfold

Federal mortgage fraud investigations move step-by-step. They often start when bank officers report suspicious activities. From there, agents collect loan applications and bank records.

Investigators interview witnesses and analyze financial records. They look for patterns of false statements across many transactions. By the time you learn you're under investigation, they may already have strong evidence against you.

Defending Against Bank Fraud and Mail Fraud Charges

Mortgage fraud cases rarely stand alone. They often involve related charges, such as bank fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering. Bank fraud occurs when someone tries to trick a financial institution, and mail fraud occurs when someone uses postal services in their scheme.

These overlapping charges create complex legal challenges. Each charge requires its own defense strategy, and our lawyers know how to handle these multi-layered cases. When the government brings combined charges, we work to level the playing field. Our team finds weaknesses in the prosecution's case.

The Connection Between Mortgage Fraud and Bank Fraud

Mortgage fraud and bank fraud often go hand in hand. When someone submits false information on a loan application, they may commit both crimes at once. Banks lose money when loans go unpaid because they are based on lies.

Material misrepresentation on loan documents forms the heart of these charges. This includes false statements about income or the intended use of property. When such lies harm financial institutions, prosecutors bring multiple charges.

How Mail Fraud is Linked to Mortgage Fraud Cases

Mail fraud enters the picture when fraudulent documents travel through the postal system. Sending a fake mortgage application through mail triggers federal mail fraud laws.

Similar rules apply to wire fraud when electronic means transmit false information. These charges add layers to mortgage fraud cases. Each mailed document can count as a separate offense, quickly adding to potential prison time.

Why You Need an Experienced Fraud Defense Attorney

Why You Need an Experienced Fraud Defense Attorney

Fighting mortgage fraud charges requires special legal knowledge. Federal courts follow different rules than state courts. Federal prosecutors have vast resources for these cases. Without skilled defense, you face tough odds.

Our criminal defense attorneys bring years of federal court experience to your case. We know how to challenge evidence and negotiate with prosecutors. This track record proves crucial when your freedom is at stake.

The right lawyer makes all the difference in these high-stakes cases. We protect your rights and build the strongest possible defense.

The Role of a Fraud Lawyer in Your Defense

A skilled fraud lawyer examines every detail of the government's case. We look for flaws in how they gather evidence. Our team knows that mortgage fraud cases often contain gray areas we can use to create doubt.

Your fraud lawyer also shields you from aggressive questioning. We guide you through interactions with investigators. From the moment you hire us, you don't face the government alone.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mortgage Fraud

What exactly counts as mortgage fraud?

Mortgage fraud happens when someone knowingly provides false information during the mortgage process. This includes lying about income, having appraisers inflate real estate values, or investors hiding material facts about property conditions.

What's the difference between mortgage fraud and financial institution fraud?

Mortgage fraud involves deception in the mortgage lending process. Financial institution fraud is broader and covers any scheme to defraud banks or lenders.

How do balloon payments relate to mortgage fraud?

Some fraud schemes involve hiding true loan terms. Sellers and brokers may not disclose balloon payments that make loans seem more affordable than they really are.

Can I go to jail for mistakes on my mortgage application?

Simple mistakes don't usually lead to criminal charges. Prosecutors must prove you intended to deceive the lender. Even so, errors can trigger investigations.

How do mortgage fraud investigations start?

They often begin when banks or mortgage lenders report suspicious patterns. Sometimes, they start when sellers or homeowners report being victims of schemes.

What should I do if I'm contacted about a mortgage fraud investigation?

Contact a fraud defense attorney right away before speaking with investigators. Early legal help can sometimes prevent charges.

Contact a Mortgage Fraud Lawyer for a Free Consultation

Contact a Mortgage Fraud Lawyer for a Free Consultation

If you're facing mortgage fraud charges or believe you're under investigation, reach out to Perlman Defense Federal Criminal Lawyers today. Our mortgage fraud attorney team offers experienced representation, starting with a free consultation, during which we'll review your case and explain your options.

Time matters in real estate fraud cases. The sooner we start working on your defense, the more options we have to protect your rights. Call our law firm now to speak with a skilled fraud lawyer who understands what you're going through.

Get the help
you deserve
call us today at (818) 383-6692
Daniel Perlman
CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

Daniel R. Perlman, the founding attorney at Perlman Defense Federal Criminal Lawyers, leverages his extensive background as a former prosecutor to provide superior defense strategies for clients across federal courtrooms. Earning his Juris Doctor from the Catholic University of America's Columbus School of Law, he first honed his legal skills with the Maryland State’s Attorney’s Office. 

This diverse experience enables him to advocate effectively, understanding prosecution tactics intimately, which he expertly counters in defense of his clients. With a profound commitment to justice, Daniel leads his team in tackling complex federal cases, from white-collar crimes to violent offenses, ensuring the highest level of defense through every phase of the criminal process.

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