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Hawaii PPP Loan Fraud Lawyers
Hawaii PPP Loan Fraud Lawyers
If you’re on this page, it’s because you’re facing potential PPP loan fraud charges – and need the best criminal defense attorney. At Spodek Law Group, we understand that, and take this very seriously. We have over 50 years of combined experience dealing with some of the toughest legal issues nationwide, including federal PPP fraud investigations. Our goal is to provide you the best possible legal representation at all stages of your case.
Federal vs. State Jurisdiction — Why PPP Cases Usually Land in Federal Court
Most PPP loan fraud investigations fall under federal jurisdiction. Federal prosecutors often rely on statutes like:
- 18 U.S.C. § 1343 (Wire Fraud)
- 18 U.S.C. § 1344 (Bank Fraud)
- 18 U.S.C. § 1001 (False Statements)
Because these loans come from the Small Business Administration (SBA), the government has an interest in prosecuting individuals it believes have misused federal funds. We regularly see agencies like the FBI, IRS, and DOJ stepping in, and they are extremely thorough. Double jeopardy typically prevents you from facing the same exact charges twice in the same jurisdiction. But since state and federal systems count as separate sovereigns, parallel charges can happen, even if it’s rare. Regardless of where your case is in the USA, or the situation you’re dealing with, or the stage of the case, we can help you.
Penalties Under Federal Sentencing Guidelines
If you’re indicted, you face federal sentencing guidelines that can be unforgiving. For example, bank fraud convictions can mean up to 30 years in prison for each count, and wire fraud can mean up to 20 years. Courts can impose heavy fines, restitution, and even asset forfeiture. The United States Sentencing Guidelines (USSG) set a baseline for sentencing, factoring in the alleged amount of fraud, your criminal history, and whether you accept responsibility. Our attorneys use their experience to negotiate outcomes and challenge the government’s calculations. We look for ways to reduce or dismiss charges – especially when evidence is weak or criminal intent is unclear.
Roleplaying Defense Strategies: Real Scenarios We Use
Our approach at Spodek Law Group is to provide each client with the best possible legal representation at all stages. We roleplay multiple defense scenarios so we can handle the toughest cases. Here are a few examples:
- Scenario One: Mistakes in Your Application
If you own a small business in Hawaii and miscalculated your payroll numbers, we can show there was no intent to defraud. We gather payroll stubs, bank statements, and other documents to demonstrate you made an honest mistake. - Scenario Two: Personal Use of Funds
If you used PPP funds for personal expenses, we will highlight any confusion about permissible expenses. We focus on the portion you used correctly and any attempt you made to correct the situation. We will use the partial nature, to show this is a mistake, not criminal intent. - Scenario Three: Multiple Applications
If you filed more than one PPP application across different banks, we explain any good-faith belief that each business entity was entitled to separate funding. We also emphasize any steps you took to rectify overlaps. - Scenario Four: Consultant or Third-Party Involvement
If you hired someone to fill out your application and they submitted false numbers, we document your reliance on that person’s advice. We investigate communications to show you were misled rather than intentionally participating in fraud.
Unpacking the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines
The U.S. Sentencing Guidelines (USSG) are critical in any federal fraud case. Federal judges look at:
- Loss Amount: The government’s alleged financial losses directly affect sentencing severity.
- Number of Counts: Multiple counts can add up quickly.
- Role in the Offense: Being labeled an organizer can increase penalties.
- Criminal History: Past convictions might elevate your sentence.
Our job is to poke enough holes in the government’s calculations and show mitigating circumstances. We fight to lower the “loss amount” or prove a minimal role, and we scrutinize any unlawful search, seizure, or coerced confession.
How We Help You
At Spodek Law Group, we focus on delivering representation from some of the top rated lawyers in the USA. Many of the cases we’re famous for handling – are cases that others say were unwinnable. We have over 50 years of combined experience handling tough cases nationwide, and we are recognized as a top rated state, and federal, criminal defense law firm. Our strategy is simple: identify every possible defense, test every angle, and highlight flaws in the prosecutor’s case.
We start with a risk-free consultation. During this conversation, we want all the details, all the documents, and your questions. We don’t make empty promises – we give you an honest assessment of your case. We focus on only working with clients who we can truly help. During this time, we map out a strategy to help you at every stage of your case. We file pre-trial motions to challenge evidence or request dismissal of certain charges. We can negotiate plea bargains that drastically reduce penalties, or if necessary, fight in court for a not guilty verdict.
Remember, the federal government takes PPP fraud very seriously. This is about more than just repaying the money; you could lose your freedom. When you reach out to our criminal defense law firm, the process of working with us begins with a risk-free consultation in person, or over the phone.
We Are Spodek Law Group
We are a premier, and award winning, New York / Federal criminal defense law firm, with offices nationwide. We have offices throughout Long Island and NYC, which means we’re ready to help you, regardless of where your case is in the USA. We are available 24/7, to provide a risk free consultation. Our firm also maintains an online portal, so all communications, invoicing, submission of documents, and access to confidential information can be done virtually.
Contact Us Today – Don’t Wait
If you’re being investigated, or already charged over PPP loan fraud, you should hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer – ASAP. You don’t really have a choice – you need an attorney. When you contact our law firm, we’ll guide you through each step and explain how we can help you out of this legal issue. Regardless of the situation you find yourself in, know that our criminal defense attorneys can help you. If you’re in legal trouble over your PPP loan in Hawaii, reach out to us now. We are available 24/7, and our job is to protect you.