Criminal Defense Lawyers

Florida PPP Loan Fraud Attorneys

Florida PPP Loan Fraud Lawyers – Guiding You Through an Uncertain Journey with Empathy, Expertise, and an Unwavering Commitment

If you’re on our website, it’s because you’re facing a serious legal concern involving PPP loan fraud in Florida—and you need help fast. At Spodek Law Group, we understand how frightening it is to realize the federal government, or even local Florida authorities, scrutinizing your finances, and threatening your livelihood. Our law firm has over 50 years of combined experience defending clients from complex and criminal charges, including those related to the Paycheck Protection Program. We know the stakes are high, and we’re fully committed to guiding you through this journey while fighting to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

How Florida PPP Loan Fraud Cases Typically Arise

PPP loans, authorized under the CARES Act, aimed to help businesses survive the upheaval brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Unfortunately, the rapid rollout and significant funding of this program made it a magnet for investigations. In Florida, where countless small businesses flourished pre-pandemic, federal and state agencies have been particularly active in examining PPP loan applications. Allegations can arise from inflated payroll figures, inaccurate headcount, or inadvertent misuse of loan proceeds. When these red flags appear, investigators may suspect fraud—and begin building a case against you under statutes like 18 U.S.C. § 1343 (Wire Fraud), 18 U.S.C. § 1344 (Bank Fraud), and 18 U.S.C. § 1014 (False Statements to a Federally Insured Bank).

At Spodek Law Group, our first step is always to understand the unique contours of your situation: Was your loan application prepared hastily in the rush of lockdowns, or did you rely on faulty advice from an accountant or business partner? Every detail matters because prosecutors must prove you knowingly and intentionally committed fraud. We take that seriously, dissecting every piece of evidence to show you acted in good faith.

Spodek Law Group, P.C. - NYC Criminal Attorneys

5.0

Based on 745 reviews

George Fernandez

14:16 30 Apr 24

Excellent 10 out of 10, Helped resolve my case. Jeremy explained everything and made everything easy to understand.

Raj

21:33 24 Apr 24

If you are looking for a lawyer that listens, is aggressive where needed, and holds his word above all else, Todd is the best pick. I had hired multiple attorneys prior to hiring the Spodek Group for a white collar case. The first thing that stood out to me was the cost, as anyone going through the process and dealing with the system, money was tight at that time - especially after hiring and firing multiple lawyers. The cost was not as high as others which was definitely a plus. Todd's intake process was also unlike other attorneys. He took the time to actually listen. He cared. He was trying to put himself in my shoes while I was explaining the situation to him and he really took the time to understand the whole situation. Other lawyers will give you 15 mins and send you a retainer agreement. Not Todd, I think he spent almost two hours with me as I was explaining everything.Not only was he great during the onboarding process, he was supportive and very informative through the entire plea process and eventually sentencing. After hiring him, I asked if I should hire a prison consultant, he told me to save my money as he would do everything they would. He was right and held up to his word. Later on I would hear from others that went with the prison consultants that they were a waste of money - I am glad I listened to Todd!When it came time for sentencing, two days prior to sentencing, the prosecutor tried increasing my proposed prison time by almost double - apparently a normal move. Todd and his team worked with me non-stop through the weekend prior to sentencing to ensure that I was not given additional prison time. Again, he took the time to listen and came up with a strategy to explain the case with great detail.Unfortunately, I did plead guilty as that was my best option. Todd and his whole team wrote up nearly 300 pages of a summary of what happened and why I should not be given prison time. If I breakdown the amount I spent with Todd versus the amount of work that I saw being done, I am shocked I was not charged four times as much. The other benefit was, a lot of criminal defense lawyers were just a single attorney with a paralegal or two. Todd had a team of people that I dealt with (5-7 people that I interacted with), but he was ALWAYS accessible. It would never take him more than an hour to reply unless he was in court.I was sentenced to prison and I was emotionally distraught. Todd and his team did whatever they could even after sentencing to make sure I was alright. He personally stayed in touch with my family to ensure I was doing alright and offered support to them. Most lawyers would consider the job complete at sentencing, not Todd.After prison, Todd still spent time with me to make sure I was on the right track and avoiding any potential risks in the future. He has also been giving advice on how to navigate probation etc and has not been looking at the clock for billing.Although I wish I had never been arrested in the first place, I am glad I had Todd and his team in my corner. Without them I likely would have had to spend a lot more time in prison than I did.Thank you, Todd, and the entire Spodek Law team, for helping turn what was a nightmare into a manageable situation!

Yelva Saint-Preux

19:26 19 Apr 24

I am immensely grateful to the entire team at Spodek Law Group for their unwavering dedication and exceptional expertise throughout my case. From our initial consultation to the final resolution, their professionalism and tireless advocacy made all the difference. Their strategic approach and attention to detail instilled confidence in me every step of the way.Thanks to their hard work and commitment, we achieved a truly favorable outcome that exceeded my expectations. Not only did they navigate the complexities of my case with precision, but they also provided invaluable support and guidance during what was undoubtedly a challenging time. I cannot recommend Spodek Law Group highly enough, especially attorneys Todd Spodek and Claire Banks; they are beacons of excellence in the legal profession.YSP.

Katherine Sun

18:08 18 Apr 24

my lawyer is Alex Zhik. Efficient, patient and professional

Nun ya

17:48 18 Apr 24

Todd, Ralph and Alex are amazing. Helped my husband get from a double digit number with multiple charges to a single digit, by the time I blink he will be out. They very professional and help with all your needs. They dealt with my anxiety and worry very well and they understand that your family member needs to get home as soon as possible.

Keisha Parris

20:45 15 Mar 24

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

16:26 15 Mar 24

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence.Thank you team!

K Mar

01:37 25 Jan 24

I recently had Spodek Law Group represent me for a legal matter in NYC and I am thoroughly impressed with their services.Alex Zhik secured the best possible outcome for my case.It was a seamless journey from the initial consultation to the resolution of my legal matter. From the moment I spoke to Todd about my case, his enthusiasm to help was evident, setting a positive tone for the entire experience. The efficiency and professionalism displayed by the team is commendable.A particularly noteworthy aspect of their service is their user-friendly portal to upload your documents/evidence. This not only simplified the process, but showcases their commitment to streamline the client experience.Lastly, in an industry where legal fees can often be a concern, I found their pricing to be very reasonable, making needing legal assistance feel accessible and stress-free.I am grateful for their support and wouldn't hesitate to turn to them again in the future.

Federal vs. State Jurisdiction—and the Perils of Double Jeopardy

When it comes to PPP loan fraud, many clients in Florida find themselves grappling with a dual threat: a federal investigation by agencies like the Department of Justice and the FBI, plus the possibility of state-level charges brought by the Florida Attorney General’s Office. While the Double Jeopardy Clause (Fifth Amendment) generally bars multiple prosecutions by the same sovereign for the same offense, federal and state governments are separate sovereigns (Heath v. Alabama, 474 U.S. 82 (1985)). In other words, you could face charges in both federal and Florida courts if prosecutors at each level believe they have separate grounds for pursuing your case.

Here at Spodek Law Group, we understand the anxiety of fighting legal issues on two fronts. Our attorneys are adept at negotiating global resolutions designed to minimize your exposure and safeguard your future. Whether it’s the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Florida State Attorney’s Office, or both, we know how to craft a robust defense strategy that addresses every angle.

Why We’re the Law Firm You Want in Your Corner

We’re more than just a team of attorneys—we’re a dedicated, nationwide law firm that prides itself on white-glove service, transparent communication, and meaningful client relationships. Our founding partner, Todd Spodek, is a second-generation defense lawyer who has taken on high-profile cases, including the representation of Anna Delvey (a.k.a. Anna Sorokin)—the so-called “fake heiress” depicted in the hit Netflix series. If we’re willing to devote our resources to your case, it’s because we believe we can truly help you.

Nationwide Recognition: Our lawyers have been featured by major media outlets such as The New York Times, Fox 5, Insider.com, Newsweek, and more.
Selective Representation: We don’t take every single client who calls; we focus on those we truly believe we can defend and guide to a beneficial outcome.
Cutting-Edge Technology: We offer a fully digital client portal, making it easy for you to provide documents, check the status of your case, and communicate with our team.
24/7 Accessibility: We’re available around the clock so you never feel alone.

Roleplaying a Few Defense Scenarios

No two cases are alike, especially when it comes to PPP loan fraud allegations in Florida. From misinterpretations of the CARES Act to complicated partner disputes, we’ve seen it all—and we tailor our defense strategy accordingly. Below, we dive into four nuanced scenarios to illustrate how we approach these cases.

Scenario One: You Made Mistakes

Let’s say you own a small restaurant in Miami. You were told you could include independent contractors on your payroll estimate—but the rules were vague, and in your rush to secure funds, you inadvertently overstated numbers. Now, the authorities think you lied.

• Our Approach: We lean heavily on “lack of criminal intent.” Under 18 U.S.C. § 1343, the government must prove you knowingly engaged in fraud. Our job is to collect every single email, text message, or conversation with financial advisors to show you genuinely believed you were following the guidelines.
• Goal: Highlight confusion and good-faith compliance to argue for dismissal, or at least a significant reduction of charges.

Scenario Two: Overzealous Business Partner or Consultant

Maybe you hired a consultant who get you the most amount possible for your loan. This consultant persuaded you to submit payroll data that—but you didn’t realize— it was grossly inflated. You might be on the hook for misrepresentations you didn’t even realize you were making.

• Our Approach: We emphasize that you were misled. Prosecutors must establish you personally had knowledge and intent to defraud. We can argue you relied on an expert’s guidance in good faith. We’ll dig into your communications and show you had zero desire to break the law.
• Goal: Establish you as a victim of your own consultant’s malpractice, not a criminal mastermind. This strategy can lead to dropped charges or a plea arrangement minimizing liability.

Scenario Three: Accusations of Misusing Funds

PPP funds generally must be used on specific, approved expenses like payroll, rent, mortgage interest, and utilities. If you spent some of the money on marketing, an e-commerce platform, or other business ventures, prosecutors might argue you’ve committed fraud.

• Our Approach: We demonstrate that your expenditures were always aimed at preserving and supporting the business. We reference evolving SBA guidance that shifted multiple times during the pandemic. We show you never intended to misuse funds; rather, you were trying to adapt your enterprise to maintain payroll and stay afloat.
• Goal: Reframe the narrative that you were an entrepreneurial visionary under challenging circumstances, not someone who set out to defraud the program.

Scenario Four: Federal Agents Conducted an Illegal Search

Imagine the FBI or a state task force raided your Tampa office, taking laptops, thumb drives, and documents. If they exceeded the scope of the warrant or omitted key facts when obtaining it, you may have grounds to suppress that evidence (Mapp v. Ohio, 367 U.S. 643 (1961)).

• Our Approach: We file pre-trial motions to contest the legality of the search and seizure. If it’s found unconstitutional, the evidence they seized often becomes inadmissible in court—a potential game-changer in your case.
• Goal: Undermine the prosecution’s primary evidence, potentially leading to a favorable plea deal or total dismissal of charges.

Federal Sentencing Guidelines and Your Future

If your case progresses to the sentencing stage—either through a guilty plea or conviction—Section 2B1.1 of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines typically applies to fraud offenses. The recommended sentence depends on factors like:

• The total alleged “loss” linked to the fraud.
• Your role in the offense (e.g., leader or minor participant).
• Any past criminal history you might have.

While these Guidelines are technically advisory (United States v. Booker, 543 U.S. 220 (2005)), judges in Florida federal courts tend to give them significant weight. Our job is to present mitigating factors—like your lack of prior convictions, your immediate willingness to rectify errors, or your acceptance of responsibility—and argue for a sentence below what the Guidelines suggest.

Why Quick Action Matters

If you’ve received a target letter, a subpoena, or even a friendly “request for documents” from investigators, don’t wait—call Spodek Law Group immediately. The earlier we get involved, the better our chances of shaping the narrative, presenting exculpatory evidence, and preventing charges from being filed in the first place.

We offer a risk-free initial consultation, during which you can share every concern, no matter how big or small. We want you to be transparent, to ask every hard question, and to feel fully informed about your options and our strategies.

We’re Here to Protect Your Future

At Spodek Law Group, we don’t see you as just another case file—we see the family you support, the employees who depend on you, and the reputation you’ve worked tirelessly to build. We stand firmly by your side because we understand the toll a PPP loan fraud investigation can take—emotionally, financially, and psychologically. Our law firm is dedicated to giving you the white-glove service you expect: from regular updates about your case, to a digital portal that streamlines communication, to meticulously-researched legal strategies that keep you in the loop.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re in Florida and believe you might be investigated for PPP loan fraud—or if you’ve already been formally charged—reach out to us right now. We are available 24/7 to provide the help you need in this critical moment. We handle cases nationwide, and we’ve earned a reputation for succeeding where others see only dead ends.

Your next move could define your future, and we want to ensure you make the best possible decisions. Contact Spodek Law Group for an honest, thorough, and strategic defense, so we can stand by you and help you move forward—stronger, wiser, and ready to reclaim your life.Defending Federal Rico Charges