Mortgage and real estate fraud prosecutions have multiplied significantly due to a massive number of foreclosures throughout the United States.  Both Mortgage fraud and real estate fraud are investigated by state and federal law enforcement agencies, including Secret Service.  There are a wide variety of fraudulent schemes that are prosecuted.  While there is no federal mortgage fraud statute, the United States Attorney’s Office often charges these individuals with wire fraud, mail fraud, bank fraud, and money laundering.

There are several forms of mortgage and real estate fraud, including property flipping, equity skimming, chunking, false down payments, double selling, foreclosure fraud, and bait and switch schemes.  Often these criminal prosecutions involve false documentation, appraisal fraud, and identity theft.  State and federal prosecutors are bringing formal charges against real estate agents, underwriters, mortgage brokers, title agents, property appraisers, and straw purchasers/buyers.

These cases are normally complex and require significant investigation, review of thousands of documents, and critical analysis of the government or state’s discovery.  One of the critical issues surrounding these prosecutions involve the amount of loss, both actual and foreseeable.  These issues require the hiring of experts, such as a forensic appraiser or accountant to assist in determining a lower loss amount than argued by state and/or federal prosecutors.   There are several defenses to these alleged cases, including lack of knowledge and being used or manipulated for purposes of another defendant’s fraudulent practices.

Mr. Seitles’ reputation and experience in this area of the law is critical to defending you or a loved one accused of mortgage or real estate fraud.  In sum, Mr. Seitles is committed to fighting for his clients regardless of how serious the charges.

Call us today at (305) 379-6667 or contact us online to schedule an appointment for your free initial consultation.