YOU MAY HAVE SEEN TODD SPODEK ON THE NETFLIX SHOW INVENTING ANNA
When you’re facing a federal issue, you need an attorney whose going to be available 24/7 to help you get the results and outcome you need. The value of working with the Spodek Law Group is that we treat each and every client like a member of our family.
Client Testimonials
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THE BEST LAWYER ANYONE COULD ASK FOR.
The BEST LAWYER ANYONE COULD ASK FOR!!! Todd changed our lives! He’s not JUST a lawyer representing us for a case. Todd and his office have become Family. When we entered his office in August of 2022, we entered with such anxiety, uncertainty, and so much stress. Honestly we were very lost. My husband and I felt alone. How could a lawyer who didn’t know us, know our family, know our background represents us, When this could change our lives for the next 5-7years that my husband was facing in Federal jail. By the time our free consultation was over with Todd, we left his office at ease. All our questions were answered and we had a sense of relief.
Maryland PPP Loan Fraud Lawyers Over 50 Years of Combined Experience
If you’re on this page, it’s because you’re facing a serious PPP loan fraud issue in Maryland—and you need the right criminal defense attorney. At Spodek Law Group, we know this is a life-changing situation. We don’t take that lightly. Our goal is to protect your future and help you navigate these federal allegations. We have offices across the USA, we have over 50 years of combined experience, and we are available 24/7 to provide a risk-free consultation.
Why Maryland PPP Loan Fraud Cases Can Become Federal
PPP loan fraud allegations typically fall under federal jurisdiction because the program was funded by the CARES Act (Pub. L. 116–136). Federal prosecutors often use statutes like 18 U.S.C. § 1343 (Wire Fraud) or 18 U.S.C. § 1014 (False Statements) to bring charges. In many cases, they rely on evidence from banks, the SBA, and other federal agencies to build a strong case against you. Our approach is to show there is another side to the story—that you lacked criminal intent, or that you made a genuine mistake in a confusing environment.
Roleplaying Different Defense Scenarios
Scenario One: Confusion Over Complex Guidelines
Many Maryland business owners rushed to apply for PPP funding, relying on rapidly changing SBA guidelines. You might have inaccurately calculated payroll costs or misunderstood full-time equivalent requirements. In this scenario, our defense revolves on the fact that you did not intentionally submit false information. We aim to show you were trying to follow the rules. We go through your emails, texts, and accounting records to prove you were actively seeking clarity, not committing fraud. Often, demonstrating honest confusion, rather than deliberate deceit, can lead to charges being dismissed or significantly diminished.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
Scenario Two: Wire Fraud and Multiple Loan Applications
Some individuals face allegations that they filed numerous PPP applications using shell companies or false certifications. Federal prosecutors will likely invoke 18 U.S.C. § 1343 (Wire Fraud). Our job is to challenge whether you truly knew each entity’s information was fraudulent. We might argue someone else took advantage of your business relationships, or that you believed the entities qualified. We also look for entrapment if there was a government informant leading the scheme. Our goal at this stage is to separate you from the main orchestrators or show the government cannot prove criminal intent beyond a reasonable doubt.
Scenario Three: Conspiracy (18 U.S.C. § 371) and Alleged Collusion
When multiple individuals are indicted in the same PPP loan fraud ring, prosecutors might allege you were part of a conspiracy to cheat the system. This requires the government to prove you knowingly agreed to commit a federal offense with others. We explore evidence that you operated independently, or lacked awareness of anyone else’s actions. We look carefully at text messages, financial transactions, and witness statements to highlight your limited role—if any. By breaking down the prosecutor’s theory of collusion, we open the door to more favorable scenarios.
Scenario Four: Double Jeopardy Concerns if State and Federal Overlap
Occasionally, Maryland authorities and federal prosecutors investigate the same conduct. This can raise questions of double jeopardy under the Fifth Amendment. In practice, the federal government can pursue charges separate from state charges if they allege different elements or statutory violations. We analyze both sets of allegations. If the charges overlap, we will fight to dismiss the redundant case. If they differ, we strategize to manage each proceeding so you don’t face an onslaught of conflicting demands.
Scenario Five: Allegations of Lying to the Bank (18 U.S.C. § 1014)
Federal prosecutors often rely on 18 U.S.C. § 1014 for allegedly false statements in PPP applications, especially if they say you inflated payroll or listed phantom employees. We look at whether you thought your statements were accurate, or if the bank provided conflicting instructions. Sometimes, changing SBA interpretations created confusion about who qualified as an employee, or what counted toward payroll. If we can prove you revised or corrected documents once you realized errors, that can show you acted in good faith.
Federal Sentencing Guidelines and the Stakes
Federal judges use the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines to calculate prison time and fines. These guidelines look at the total dollar loss, number of victims, and other aggravating factors. We work to reduce the government’s claim of loss by challenging inflated figures, which can mean a lower sentencing range. If cooperation with investigators aligns with your objectives, we can explore that route to potentially reduce your exposure. But we never push you into cooperating with the authorities unless it truly serves your best interests. We always want you to have the best possible outcome.
Why You Should Hire Spodek Law Group Immediately
If you’re under investigation, waiting can hurt your defense. The moment you reach out to us, we’ll begin reviewing your case, advising you on how to handle inquiries from federal agents, and gathering exculpatory evidence before it disappears. We have a team of criminal attorneys who have handled complex, high-profile cases nationwide. Our managing partner, Todd Spodek, is a second-generation criminal defense lawyer, with extensive experience in federal cases that have captured major media attention. We’ve represented notable clients, like “fake heiress” Anna Sorokin, and have been featured on major news outlets. That means we know how to navigate intense scrutiny and complicated legal issues.
How Our Process Works
When you call Spodek Law Group, we start with a risk-free consultation, either by phone or in person. We’ll ask for copies of relevant documents—such as the PPP application forms, bank statements, or communications with lenders. Once we have a clear picture, we outline potential defense strategies. We communicate with you 24/7 to keep you informed about each step. Because we maintain a completely cloud based digital portal, we can handle your case securely and efficiently, no matter where you are in Maryland—or anywhere else in the nation.
Talk to Spodek Law Group Today
If you’re ready to protect yourself against PPP loan fraud allegations, call us for a risk-free consultation. Our objective is always to have the charges dismissed, or substantially reduced. We pride ourselves on having a rock star team of attorneys who have over 50 years of combined experience.