Initial Investigation

Orlando, Florida Financial Fraud Defense Lawyers

Early Intervention to Prevent Criminal Charges

Inquiries into questionable loans can quickly turn into criminal investigations for mortgage fraud or banking fraud. However, when our experienced fraud defense attorney is called upon early in the process, his parallel investigation often reaches a different conclusion.

The Law Offices of Mark L. Horwitz, a Professional Association, represents borrowers and lenders, builders and developers, sellers, and real estate professionals throughout Central Florida, statewide and nationwide. As soon as you suspect you are the subject of investigation, contact our firm immediately. Early intervention can mean the difference between walking away and facing criminal fraud or conspiracy charges.

Initial Investigations of Mortgage Fraud/Bank Fraud

In a typical scenario: A homeowner defaults on a mortgage or a bank loses money in a transaction. The loss results in an internal review, or triggers review by state or federal auditors. The audit reveals irregularities in loan applications or supporting documents.

Then the case is referred to the FBI or the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), the federal department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and other state and federal regulatory agencies may also get involved in the criminal investigation.

Before the indictment comes down, there are usually many opportunities for the targets of investigation to obtain legal advice. Signs of a criminal investigation include:

• The FBI or other investigating body starts asking around
• The bank becomes adversarial to the loan application or files civil litigation
• The FBI or other law enforcement actually pays a visit

Legal Representation

Mortgage and commercial lending are complicated matters. Law enforcement officers are investigating business professionals but often do not understand the industry, its practices, the jargon, and the regulations. There is a huge opportunity for miscommunication and erroneous conclusions.

Our attorneys strive to demonstrate to the investigators' satisfaction that no fraud occurred, or that there was a lack of criminal intent. We carefully counsel clients on how to respond to auditors or investigators to avoid obstruction of justice charges for false statements or destruction of evidence.

If you are contacted by any regulatory agency or suspect you are the subject of investigation, contact our Orlando firm for help to respond to the investigation of mortgage fraud, bank fraud, mail fraud or wire fraud. We offer a confidential consultation at 407.401.7224 or 866.784.0023.