PPP Loan Fraud Lawyer Montgomery County — Federal Defense Strategy
A PPP loan fraud charge in Montgomery County is a serious federal offense prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland, carrying penalties of up to 30 years in prison and $1 million fines per count. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for individuals and businesses accused of misusing Paycheck Protection Program funds.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland | Maryland General Assembly
PPP loan fraud involves allegations of making false statements, misrepresenting payroll expenses, or using loan proceeds for unauthorized purposes in violation of federal law, primarily 18 U.S.C. § 1343 (wire fraud) and 15 U.S.C. § 645. These cases are often part of larger federal enforcement initiatives targeting COVID-19 relief fraud. The key is often proving a lack of specific intent to defraud, which requires a detailed analysis of financial records and application materials.
Our firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to these high-stakes cases. We have a documented record of handling complex financial and white-collar matters.
Federal Statutes and Penalties for PPP Fraud
The primary statutes used in PPP loan fraud prosecutions include:
- 18 U.S.C. § 1343 (Wire Fraud): Using interstate wires to execute a scheme to defraud. Penalty: Up to 20 years imprisonment.
- 18 U.S.C. § 1344 (Bank Fraud): Defrauding a financial institution. Penalty: Up to 30 years imprisonment.
- 18 U.S.C. § 1014 (False Statements to a Financial Institution): Penalty: Up to 30 years imprisonment.
- 18 U.S.C. § 287 (False Claims): Submitting false claims to the U.S. government. Penalty: Up to 5 years imprisonment.
You can review the official U.S. Code at the U.S. Government Publishing Office. For local federal court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland website.
Defending PPP Fraud Charges in Montgomery County
Federal investigations for PPP loan fraud in Montgomery County are typically led by the FBI’s Baltimore Field Office, with support from the SBA Office of Inspector General and IRS Criminal Investigation. Cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Greenbelt or Baltimore. The process often begins with a grand jury subpoena for records, followed by a target letter or indictment.
- Immediate Case Assessment: Upon engagement, we secure all relevant financial documents, PPP application materials, and communications with lenders.
- Investigation Analysis: We analyze the government’s potential evidence, identify weaknesses in their case, and explore legal defenses like lack of intent or reliance on professional advice.
- Strategic Communication: We may engage in discussions with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to present mitigating factors or challenge the basis of the charges before formal indictment.
- Pre-Trial Motions: If indicted, we file motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence or challenge the legal sufficiency of the charges.
- Trial or Negotiation: We prepare for a vigorous trial defense while simultaneously evaluating any potential plea agreements that may serve your best interests.
- Sentencing Mitigation: If a conviction occurs, we develop a full sentencing strategy to argue for the most lenient sentence possible under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Potential Penalties and Consequences
In Montgomery County, a conviction for PPP loan fraud can result in lengthy federal prison sentences, substantial fines, mandatory restitution, and a permanent felony record.
| Charge | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wire Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1343) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) / $500,000 (organization) | Restitution, Forfeiture |
| Bank Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1344) | Federal Felony | Up to 30 years | Up to $1,000,000 | Restitution, Forfeiture |
| False Statements (18 U.S.C. § 1014) | Federal Felony | Up to 30 years | Up to $1,000,000 | Restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes attorneys with deep experience in federal court. Mr. Sris, the firm’s managing attorney and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex federal matters. For a fraud charge defense lawyer Montgomery County residents can rely on, our approach combines meticulous document review with an understanding of federal prosecution strategies.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in complex cases. While every case is unique, our systematic approach focuses on challenging the government’s evidence and protecting our clients’ rights at every stage. Mr. Sris, with his background in accounting and information systems, is particularly adept at dissecting complex financial evidence often central to PPP fraud cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Montgomery County PPP Fraud Defense Lawyers
Our Maryland location serves clients in Montgomery County facing federal investigations. We are accessible via I-270, I-495, and Route 355.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
We serve Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Wheaton, Kensington, Potomac, Olney, Damascus, Clarksburg, Takoma Park, and Chevy Chase.
PPP Loan Fraud Defense FAQs
What should I do if I am contacted by the FBI about my PPP loan?
Do not speak to agents without an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and state you wish to consult with your PPP loan fraud lawyer Montgomery County. Contact us immediately at (888) 437-7747.
Can I go to jail for a mistake on my PPP application?
It depends. Prosecutors must prove you knowingly made a false statement with intent to defraud. Honest errors, misunderstandings of complex rules, or reliance on a professional’s advice can be strong defenses. A skilled white collar crime defense lawyer Montgomery County can argue the lack of specific criminal intent.
What is the difference between civil and criminal PPP fraud?
Civil fraud may result in monetary penalties and repayment demands. Criminal fraud involves the government proving guilt “beyond a reasonable doubt” and can lead to imprisonment. 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 case’s complexity, the number of subjects, and agency resources. Early legal representation is crucial to influence the investigation’s direction.
What are common defenses against PPP fraud charges?
Common defenses include lack of intent to defraud, good-faith reliance on accountant/lender advice, ambiguous SBA guidance, insufficient evidence, and challenging the legality of the investigation (e.g., improper search).
Related Practice Areas: For other federal matters, see our Federal Criminal Lawyer Montgomery County page. For related business issues, our Business Lawyer Montgomery County can assist.
Other Locations: We also serve clients in Prince George’s County and Howard County.
State Hub: Learn more about our approach on our Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Federal laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for the most current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.
Montgomery County cases follow the same route as the rest of the state, and our page on ppp loan fraud cases in Maryland explains each stage.