PPP Loan Fraud Lawyer Passaic County — Federal Defense Strategy
PPP loan fraud in Passaic County is a serious federal crime prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, carrying penalties of up to 30 years in prison and $1 million fines per count. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strategic defense for individuals and businesses accused of misusing Paycheck Protection Program funds.
Federal PPP Loan Fraud Charges in New Jersey
PPP loan fraud involves allegations of making false statements, certifying ineligible expenses, or misrepresenting payroll information to obtain or forgive a loan under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. These cases are prosecuted federally under statutes including 18 U.S.C. § 1343 (Wire Fraud), 18 U.S.C. § 1344 (Bank Fraud), and 15 U.S.C. § 645 (False Statements to the SBA). The U.S. Department of Justice has prioritized investigating PPP fraud, often involving agencies like the FBI, IRS-CI, and SBA Office of Inspector General.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the federal fraud statutes, visit the U.S. Code on Wire Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1343). For information on the Paycheck Protection Program and SBA rules, refer to the U.S. Small Business Administration’s official PPP page.
handling a Federal PPP Fraud Case in Passaic County
Federal PPP fraud investigations in New Jersey often begin with a subpoena, search warrant, or target letter. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Newark handles cases from Passaic County. A critical local procedural fact is that New Jersey federal courts follow the Speedy Trial Act, but fraud cases can take 1-3 years to resolve. Early intervention by a skilled fraud charge defense lawyer Passaic County is important to challenge the government’s evidence before an indictment is filed.
- Initial Investigation: You may receive a subpoena for documents or a visit from federal agents. Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present.
- Pre-Indictment Negotiation: Your lawyer can engage with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to present mitigating evidence, argue against charges, or negotiate a potential pre-trial resolution.
- Grand Jury & Indictment: If presented, a federal grand jury in Newark will decide whether to issue an indictment based on the prosecutor’s evidence.
- Arraignment & Detention Hearing: You will appear in U.S. District Court to enter a plea. Your attorney will argue for your release pending trial.
- Discovery & Motion Practice: Your defense team will review all evidence, file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, and challenge the legal sufficiency of the charges.
- Trial or Plea: The case will proceed to a jury trial or, if in your best interest, a negotiated plea agreement will be presented to the court.
Potential Penalties for Federal PPP Fraud
In Passaic County, federal PPP loan fraud convictions carry severe penalties under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, including lengthy prison terms, substantial fines, and mandatory restitution.
| Charge (18 U.S.C.) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wire Fraud (§ 1343) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) / $500,000 (organization) | Restitution, Forfeiture |
| Bank Fraud (§ 1344) | Federal Felony | Up to 30 years | Up to $1,000,000 | Restitution, Forfeiture |
| False Statements (§ 1001) | Federal Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $250,000 | Restitution |
| Major Fraud Against U.S. (§ 1031) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $1,000,000 | Restitution, Forfeiture |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your PPP Fraud Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings a unique combination of over 120 years of combined attorney experience and a background in accounting and information systems, which is critical for dissecting financial fraud cases. We have a documented track record of handling intricate federal charges. Our approach is collaborative, with every case receiving direct attention from experienced attorneys.
Our Approach to PPP Fraud Cases
Our defense strategy begins with a forensic analysis of the loan application, supporting documentation, and fund usage. We work with financial professionals to rebut allegations of intentional misrepresentation. A common defense is lack of intent to defraud, arguing good-faith errors or misunderstanding of the demanding, evolving PPP rules. For eligible first-time offenders, we may negotiate for pre-trial diversion programs to avoid a felony conviction. Our firm-wide experience includes over 4,739 documented case results.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 334-7460
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients in Passaic County, including Paterson, Clifton, and Wayne. We are accessible via I-80 and Route 46. Facing federal charges requires immediate action. Contact a PPP loan fraud lawyer Passaic County for a 24/7 phone consultation.
PPP Loan Fraud Defense FAQs
What should I do if the FBI contacts me about my PPP loan?
No. Do not answer any questions. Politely state you wish to speak with your attorney and immediately contact a federal defense lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you.
Can I go to jail for a mistake on my PPP application?
It depends. Prosecution requires proof of willful intent to defraud. An honest mistake or misunderstanding of the guidelines is a valid defense. A skilled white collar crime defense lawyer Passaic County can gather evidence to demonstrate lack of criminal intent.
What is the difference between civil and criminal PPP fraud?
Civil fraud involves the SBA seeking monetary repayment of the loan. Criminal fraud involves the U.S. Department of Justice pursuing felony charges with potential prison time. The same conduct can trigger both proceedings.
How long does a federal PPP fraud investigation take?
Investigations can last from several months to over two years. The timeline depends on the scope of your financial records, the number of loans involved, and whether you are one of many targets in a larger probe.
What are common defenses against PPP fraud charges?
Common defenses include lack of intent, good-faith reliance on professional advice (like an accountant), ambiguous SBA guidance, and improper investigation tactics by the government. Each defense requires meticulous evidence gathering.
Contact a Passaic County PPP Fraud Attorney Today
Federal charges escalate quickly. If you are under investigation or have been charged with PPP loan fraud in Passaic County, securing experienced counsel is the most critical step. Our firm offers 24/7 consultations. We also represent clients on related state charges, working alongside a skilled fraud charge defense lawyer Passaic County for full protection. Learn more about our broader criminal defense work in Passaic County, or explore our New Jersey federal criminal defense hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. The laws and procedures related to PPP loan fraud are demanding and subject to change. The information on this page is for general understanding and does not constitute legal advice. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for case-specific guidance.
Passaic County is one part of a statewide practice, and our page on ppp loan fraud lawyer New Jersey covers the process from start to finish.
Your case in Passaic County, New Jersey
Federal charges are heard in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey (Newark, Trenton and Camden), not in county court; related state charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Passaic County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Passaic Vicinage (11th Vicinage), 77 Hamilton Street, Paterson, NJ 07505, telephone (973) 247-8000, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is Title 18 of the United States Code and the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Passaic County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Passaic County NJ lawyers directory · PPP Loan Fraud Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · PPP Loan Fraud Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · PPP Loan Fraud Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.