Have you been accused of mortgage fraud in Philadelphia? Prosecutors pursue these cases with significant resources, and the charges they bring can leave you facing decades of potential prison time.
Don’t wait to get an attorney in your corner. Philadelphia mortgage fraud defense attorney Brian Zeiger knows how federal and state prosecutors build these cases, and he knows how to pull them apart. From the moment you contact The Zeiger Firm, Brian will get to work protecting your rights and challenging the evidence against you. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more about how we can help.
How Our Philadelphia Mortgage Fraud Defense Attorney Can Help You
Mortgage fraud cases move fast, and prosecutors don’t pull their punches. From the moment you learn you’re under investigation, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney who will fight back just as hard. That’s where Brian Zeiger of The Zeiger Firm comes in. He has gone up against some of the toughest prosecutors in Pennsylvania and come out on top. Not by cutting corners, but by knowing the law cold, highlighting weaknesses in the government’s case, and refusing to accept mediocre results. Here’s how one past client described the difference that kind of representation can make:
“A Monster in the Courtroom. He wins the unwinnable cases! And he has mastered the art of cross-examination. Thank you for everything !”
– Amir R.
Brian Zeiger brings the full force of his criminal defense knowledge to every mortgage fraud case he takes on. If you’re facing state or federal fraud charges, he can help you by:
- Reviewing all evidence against you and identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
- Challenging the legality of how investigators obtained evidence against you
- Advocating for reduced bail or release on your own recognizance after arrest
- Filing motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence before trial
- Advising you on your legal rights and what to expect at every stage of the process
- Negotiating with federal and state prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges where possible
- Developing a defense strategy tailored to the specific facts of your case
- Representing you at all hearings and court appearances
- Cross-examining government witnesses and expert witnesses at trial
- Taking your case to trial and fighting for an acquittal if prosecutors won’t offer a fair deal
Contact our law office today for a free initial consultation.
Understanding Mortgage Fraud in Philadelphia
“Mortgage fraud” is a broad term that covers any intentional misrepresentation, omission, or deception made in connection with a mortgage loan transaction. Lenders, borrowers, real estate professionals, and investors can all face accusations of mortgage fraud. Prosecutors pursue these cases at both the state and federal levels. Common forms of mortgage fraud include loan application fraud, appraisal fraud, straw buyer schemes, and illegal property flipping.
Authorities see mortgage fraud as a financial crime that threatens the integrity of the lending system, so they pursue these cases aggressively. They also often stack multiple charges, such as bank fraud, wire fraud, mail fraud, and conspiracy, to maximize sentencing exposure.
Potential Consequences of Mortgage Fraud
Mortgage fraud is a serious crime under both Pennsylvania state law and federal law. A conviction can carry consequences that reach far beyond the courtroom and affect nearly every aspect of your life. Those mortgage fraud penalties can include:
- Federal prison sentences of up to 30 years per count for bank fraud convictions
- Significant fines reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars
- State prison time under Pennsylvania’s fraud statutes
- Court-ordered restitution to lenders, investors, or other affected parties
- Forfeiture of assets connected to the alleged fraud
- A permanent felony record that affects future employment prospects
- Loss of professional licenses in fields such as real estate, finance, and law
- Long-term damage to your credit score and financial standing
Common Mortgage Fraud Charges in Philadelphia
There is no single offense known as “mortgage fraud” under Pennsylvania law. Mortgage fraud is a category of offenses that prosecutors can pursue under several different legal theories, at both the state and federal levels. Some of the most common charges Brian Zeiger defends clients against include:
- Forgery or fraudulent destruction of mortgage instruments (18 Pa. C.S. § 4101 and § 4103)
- Deceptive or fraudulent business practices (18 Pa. C.S. § 4107)
- Securing execution of documents by deception (18 Pa. C.S. § 4114)
- Bank fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1344)
- Wire fraud in connection with a mortgage transaction (18 U.S.C. § 1343)
- Mail fraud involving loan documents or closing materials (18 U.S.C. § 1341)
- False statements on a loan or credit application (18 U.S.C. § 1014)
- Conspiracy to commit bank fraud, wire fraud, or mail fraud (18 U.S.C. § 371)
- Money laundering in connection with mortgage fraud proceeds (18 U.S.C. § 1956)
- Equity skimming involving FHA- or VA-insured mortgages (12 U.S.C. § 1709-2)
Steps to Take If You Are Accused
If you have been accused or arrested on suspicion of mortgage fraud, the clock is already running. Every decision you make from this point on matters. Here are some steps you can take to protect your interests:
- Contact an experienced defense lawyer before you say anything to investigators or prosecutors.
- Exercise your right to remain silent. Don’t answer any questions until your attorney is present.
- Do not alter or destroy any documents or communications that may be relevant to your case.
- Avoid discussing your case with anyone but your lawyer, including family, friends, and colleagues.
- Write down everything you remember about the events leading up to your arrest or accusation while the details are still fresh in your memory.
- Follow your attorney’s instructions precisely when it comes to interactions with authorities.
- Attend all scheduled court appearances and comply fully with any bail or release conditions.
- Let your attorney handle all communication with law enforcement and other officials for you.
Choosing the Right Philadelphia Mortgage Fraud Lawyer
If you’re facing mortgage fraud charges in Philadelphia, the decision to hire a skilled defense lawyer could be the most important choice you make. Brian Zeiger has earned his reputation by fighting hard for his clients, refusing to back down from tough cases, and delivering real results. Contact The Zeiger Firm today for a free consultation, and let Brian get to work on your defense.
