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Maine PPP Loan Fraud Lawyers
MAINE PPP LOAN FRAUD LAWYERS
If you’re on our website, it’s because you’re worried about a federal PPP loan fraud investigation – and you need the best possible defense attorney. At Spodek Law Group, we understand how urgent this situation is. Our goal is to fight for you, protect you, and guide you through every stage of your case. We have over 50 years of combined experience, and our attorneys have been featured on major news outlets for legal insights. We work nationwide, and we’re available 24/7 to help you.
Federal Jurisdiction in Maine
Because the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) is funded by the federal government under the CARES Act, these cases often fall under federal jurisdiction. That means prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney’s Office may charge you in U.S. District Court for the District of Maine. Alleged violations typically include wire fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1343), bank fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1344), conspiracy (18 U.S.C. § 371), and false statements (18 U.S.C. § 1001). Facing federal charges can feel overwhelming, especially if the FBI, IRS, or SBA Office of Inspector General is investigating. Our firm has a track record of challenging these agencies and forcing them to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt.
Why Federal Sentencing Guidelines Matter
If you face federal charges, the penalties can be severe. The court follows the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which consider factors like the amount of money involved, whether you have a prior criminal record, and your role in the alleged offense. If convicted, you could face prison time and huge financial penalties. We aim to either get the charges dismissed or negotiate outcomes that reduce your exposure. Our lawyers are aggressive negotiators and, when needed, fierce trial attorneys. Our priority is defending you at every step.
Double Jeopardy Concerns
Some clients in Maine worry about being charged by both state and federal authorities. The Constitution’s Double Jeopardy Clause prevents multiple prosecutions for the same offense by the same sovereign. But Maine and the federal government are separate sovereigns. If there are overlapping charges, we’ll argue they violate your rights or exceed the scope of what’s fair. We look at every angle that protects you from overzealous prosecution.
Different Defense Scenarios and Strategies
Each PPP loan fraud case is unique. Below, we roleplay defense strategies we might use in your situation. Our attorneys will customize one or more of these approaches based on your specific facts and evidence.
Scenario One: Lack of Intent
Sometimes, the government interprets legitimate expenses as misuse of PPP funds. If you believed that you were allowed to use the loan for certain business purposes, there may be no criminal intent. Under federal law, the prosecution must prove you acted “knowingly and willfully.” We gather evidence—like receipts, invoices, and communications with accountants—to demonstrate your genuine belief that you complied with PPP rules.
Scenario Two: Mistaken Identity
We’ve seen cases where the wrong individual or business entity is flagged by the federal government. Perhaps a Maine business name matches another entity under investigation. If you were mistakenly lumped into that case, we’ll show there’s no link between you and the alleged fraudulent activity. We force the government to acknowledge that you’re not the right target. If it’s a matter of a mismatched taxpayer ID or a flawed records search, we move swiftly to clear your name.
Scenario Three: Entrapment
In some PPP loan fraud investigations, the government pushes individuals to commit acts they wouldn’t have done otherwise. If your situation involves aggressive tactics by an undercover agent or informant, we may argue entrapment. This defense requires us to show that the idea originated with the government and that you weren’t predisposed to commit fraud. Our team conducts a thorough review of messages, conversations, and emails to expose improper government conduct.
Scenario Four: Improper Search or Seizure
In many federal cases, investigators seize documents, computers, and financial records. If they overstepped their authority, or used an invalid warrant, we can challenge the search under the Fourth Amendment. Evidence gained through unconstitutional methods should be excluded from trial. If we succeed, the prosecution’s entire case can crumble.
Scenario Five: Demonstrating Legitimate Use of Funds
You might have multiple businesses or different divisions of your company. Each PPP loan may have been entirely legal and documented. We piece together payroll records, bank statements, vendor contracts—anything that shows you obeyed the rules. If the government cannot prove you misused the funds, the charges can’t stand. We focus on painting the clearest possible picture of your legitimate business operations.
Why Choose Spodek Law Group
We’re a top-rated federal criminal defense firm recognized for handling tough cases nationwide. Todd Spodek, our managing partner, is a second-generation criminal defense attorney who’s been featured in the media for high-profile cases. Our team is dedicated to you—not to pleasing prosecutors or judges. We care more about our relationship with you, than prosecutors and judges. We use a digital cloud based portal to give you real-time updates, and we’re transparent about legal fees. Our objective is getting the best possible result for you.
Speak to Us—24/7 Risk-Free Consultation
We start every case with a risk-free consultation. It’s your time to ask any questions you have and share every detail. Once you talk to us, you’ll see why clients nationwide trust Spodek Law Group. We take the time to listen, lay out possible outcomes, and explain how we’ll fight for you. PPP loan fraud allegations are serious. If you’re in Maine, and if you need a powerful legal team, we’re here now.