Burlington County Mail Fraud Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Mail fraud is a serious federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 1341, carrying penalties of up to 20 years in prison and substantial fines. If you are under investigation or have been charged in Burlington County, securing a skilled mail fraud lawyer Burlington County is critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for these federal cases. Contact us for a consultation.
Understanding Federal Mail Fraud Charges
Mail fraud is a federal crime that involves using the United States Postal Service or any private interstate carrier to execute a scheme to defraud. The statute, 18 U.S.C. § 1341, is broad and can apply to many situations, from financial scams to insurance fraud. The prosecution must prove you had intent to defraud and used the mail to further that scheme. Even a single mailed letter can be enough for a charge.
Last verified: April 2026 | United States District Court for the District of New Jersey | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the federal mail fraud statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 1341. For information on the federal court handling these cases in New Jersey, visit the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey website.
The Burlington County Federal Defense Process
Federal mail fraud cases in Burlington County are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court in Camden. The process is distinct from state court, with different rules, procedures, and sentencing guidelines. An early intervention by a federal mail fraud defense lawyer Burlington County can be key. In federal court, pre-indictment negotiations and challenging the government’s evidence before formal charges are filed are common strategic points.
- Receive a target letter or subpoena, or learn of an indictment.
- Immediately consult with a federal criminal defense attorney.
- Your attorney will review all evidence and communicate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
- Develop a defense strategy, which may involve pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Evaluate the option of a plea agreement or prepare for trial.
- If convicted, advocate at sentencing under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Potential Penalties for Mail Fraud
In Burlington County, a federal mail fraud conviction carries severe penalties, including decades in prison and fines into the millions of dollars.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mail Fraud | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years* | Up to $250,000 (individual) or $500,000 (organization)* | Restitution, forfeiture, probation, permanent criminal record. |
| Mail Fraud Affecting a Financial Institution | Federal Felony | Up to 30 years* | Up to $1,000,000* | Mandatory restitution, asset forfeiture. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*Penalties are enhanced if the fraud involves a federal disaster declaration or affects a financial institution.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Court
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys approach federal charges with a clear understanding of the high stakes. We analyze the prosecution’s evidence for weaknesses, such as lack of intent or improper use of the mail system. We prepare every case as if it will go to trial, which strengthens our position in negotiations.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has handled numerous federal and state fraud cases. We work to achieve outcomes such as reduced charges, pre-trial diversion, or case dismissal where the evidence allows. Every case is unique, and we develop a strategy based on the specific facts and evidence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Burlington County Federal Defense Team
Our firm is positioned to defend clients across Burlington County. If you are facing a postal fraud charge lawyer Burlington County representation is available now. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between mail fraud and wire fraud?
Yes, there is a key difference. Mail fraud requires the use of the U.S. Postal Service or a private interstate carrier. Wire fraud, under 18 U.S.C. § 1343, involves the use of electronic communications, like phone calls, emails, or faxes, across state lines to further a fraud scheme. The penalties are similar, but the method of communication defines the charge.
Can I be charged with mail fraud if I didn’t personally mail anything?
It depends. The law holds you responsible if you caused the mailing to happen or if it was a foreseeable part of the scheme. You do not need to have physically dropped a letter in the mailbox to be charged. If your co-conspirator mailed something to advance the shared fraudulent plan, you can both be charged.
What are common defenses to a mail fraud charge?
Several defenses may apply. A lack of intent to defraud is primary—showing a mistake or good faith belief. Challenging the materiality of the false statement or arguing the mailing was not part of the scheme are also common. An experienced mail fraud lawyer Burlington County can identify the best defense based on your case details.
How long does a federal mail fraud investigation take?
Federal investigations can take many months or even years. Agencies like the FBI or USPIS gather evidence meticulously before presenting it to a prosecutor. The time frame depends on the scheme’s the issues involved, the number of people involved, and the volume of records. You may not know you are under investigation until charges are filed.
What should I do if I receive a federal subpoena?
Do not ignore it. Contact a federal criminal defense attorney as early as possible before responding or providing any documents. A subpoena is a court order, but an attorney can advise you on your rights, potentially narrow its scope, and guide your response to avoid self-incrimination while complying with the law.
Burlington County cases are handled by our New Jersey mail fraud practice, where the whole process is set out.
Your case in Burlington 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 Burlington County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage (8th Vicinage), 49 Rancocas Road, Mount Holly, NJ 08060, telephone (609) 518-2500, 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 Burlington 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: Burlington County NJ lawyers directory · Mail Fraud Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Mail Fraud Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Mail Fraud Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.