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.
Texas PPP and EIDL Loan Fraud Lawyers
Navigating PPP and EIDL Loan Fraud Charges: Why You Need an Experienced Federal Defense Attorney
The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented financial hardship for businesses across Texas. To help struggling companies stay afloat, the federal government made billions in small business relief funds available through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. However, in their haste to distribute aid, regulators relaxed oversight standards. This lack of scrutiny, paired with complicated and frequently changing program rules, created opportunities for business owners to intentionally or accidentally misuse loans.
Now, federal investigators are auditing PPP and EIDL loans for potential fraud. If you’re contacted regarding an investigation, it’s critical to engage an attorney immediately to protect your rights. Here’s what you need to know about responding to federal loan fraud allegations and finding the right lawyer for your situation.
A Complex Web of Federal Rules and Regulations
The PPP and EIDL programs involved various federal agencies with different – and sometimes conflicting – guidelines. The Small Business Administration (SBA) oversaw the EIDL loans, while the PPP fell under the U.S. Treasury Department. However, both programs allowed applicants to use loan funds for payroll, rent, utilities, and other approved business expenses.
With agencies frantically trying to distribute aid, understanding of the rules was murky at best. The Treasury Department changed PPP rules multiple times following the program’s launch.
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.
This uncertainty left many borrowers confused about how loans could be spent and later forgiven. Unfortunately, honest mistakes can still constitute fraud in the eyes of investigators. Without experienced legal counsel, business owners risk severe consequences like criminal prosecution or permanent program exclusion – even if unintentional errors occurred.
Responding to a Federal Investigation
If you’re contacted regarding possible PPP or EIDL fraud, you could be facing an inquiry from agencies like:
The Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General (SBA OIG)
Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations Division (IRS CI)
U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS)
These agencies have broad authority to gather evidence in white collar cases. Their strategies may include:
Document requests – Demands to produce financial statements, bank records, tax returns, loan applications, and other paperwork.
Testimony – Interviews under oath before a grand jury, during which lying is a felony.
Surveillance – Monitoring of calls, emails, texts, social media, and movements.
Search warrants – Seizure of records, computers, phones, and other items from home or business.
If contacted by federal agents, remain calm and do not agree to produce documents, sit for questioning, or sign anything before consulting with counsel. Be aware you have the right to an attorney even if you’re told otherwise. Politely defer questions by stating you wish to have your lawyer present.
Building an Effective Defense Strategy
Because the rules governing use of federal relief funds were complex, you may have an excellent defense even if errors were made. However, developing legal arguments and strategies requires intimate expertise in the regulatory framework. This is why engaging an attorney experienced in federal white collar cases is so critical.
When choosing counsel, you want a lawyer with specific expertise in navigating high-stakes federal investigations as well as defending complex financial crimes cases. Look for an attorney with a proven track record handling matters involving the SBA, FBI, DOJ, and other agencies.
It takes substantial experience litigating in federal court to effectively counter the government’s tactics and legal firepower. Your lawyer should be prepared to aggressively defend your interests before agencies as well as in court if charges are filed.
Key Attorney Selection Criteria
To boost your chances of the best possible outcome, seek counsel with:
In-depth knowledge of SBA, PPP and EIDL program rules and history
Relationships with regulators and prosecutors
Familiarity with common investigative strategies
Success defending white collar cases and financial allegations
Expertise with motions to suppress evidence improperly gathered
Skills negotiating with agencies pre-charge when possible
Ability to build prosecutorial misconduct claims
Talent examining weaknesses in the government’s case
Preparation to take cases to trial with aggressive defense strategies
It’s also wise to choose someone with trial experience specifically in the federal court district where your case originates. Federal courts have their own unique procedures and rules. Local knowledge makes a difference.
A Team Approach to Your Best Defense
Given the high stakes in federal financial crime investigations, a multi-disciplinary defense team is recommended. At minimum, your team should include an accomplished lead counsel knowledgeable in the issues surrounding COVID-19 relief programs.
You may also want to engage forensic accountants to audit your loan applications and use of funds. Their analysis will identify potential compliance problems – or prove your activities followed the rules. Utilizing accounting experts helps demonstrate good faith efforts to properly handle loan monies.
Retaining experienced former prosecutors is another smart move. Their insights into the government’s game plan can prove invaluable. They may also open doors to negotiating pre-charge resolutions.
Facing Allegations with Confidence
Responding to federal fraud accusations is intimidating regardless of the circumstances. But you can take comfort knowing these cases are defensible when counsel with the right skills is engaged promptly. Don’t go it alone and don’t wait to seek help. With an experienced attorney guiding your strategy, you can face allegations confidently.
