Dallas Bank Fraud Attorney

Accused of Bank Fraud in Dallas, TX?

When facing allegations of bank fraud, the stakes are high. The consequences can be severe, potentially including prison time, significant fines, and irreparable damage to your reputation. At the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC, we provide experienced and aggressive representation for individuals accused of bank fraud in Dallas, TX.

If you or a loved one is under investigation or facing charges, contact our team at (214) 238-9392 for a consultation with a skilled Dallas bank fraud lawyer.

What is Bank Fraud?

Bank fraud refers to any fraudulent act designed to illegally obtain money, assets, or property from a financial institution or its customers. This crime typically involves deception, false pretenses, or other forms of dishonesty aimed at securing financial gain. Bank fraud is a serious offense that can be prosecuted at both the state and federal levels, depending on the specifics of the case.

In most cases, bank fraud involves an intentional act to deceive a bank or its customers. Federal law defines bank fraud broadly, ensuring that various schemes—from counterfeit checks to identity theft—fall within its purview. Whether the alleged act was an isolated incident or part of a more extensive scheme, the penalties can be devastating without a strong defense.

Common Types of Bank Fraud

Bank fraud can take many forms, and some of the most common types include:

• Check Fraud: Altering, forging, or counterfeiting checks to unlawfully obtain funds.
• Loan Fraud: Providing false information to secure a loan or failing to repay loans obtained under fraudulent pretenses.
• Credit Card Fraud: Using stolen credit card information to make unauthorized purchases or withdrawals.
• Wire Fraud: Illegally transferring funds electronically through deceptive means.
• Identity Theft: Using another person’s personal information to commit financial crimes.
• Embezzlement: Misappropriating funds or assets entrusted to an individual by a financial institution or employer.
• Phishing and Online Scams: Using fake websites, emails, or phone calls to steal banking information and commit fraud.

State & Federal Penalties for Bank Fraud

Bank fraud is a serious criminal offense that carries severe penalties. In Texas, individuals charged with bank fraud may face:

State Penalties: Depending on the value of the funds involved, penalties for bank fraud under Texas law range from misdemeanor charges to first-degree felonies. A conviction could lead to:

• Jail or prison time
• Substantial fines
• Restitution to victims

Federal Penalties: Bank fraud is often prosecuted at the federal level, especially if the crime involves federally insured banks. Federal penalties include:

• Up to 30 years in prison per count
• Fines of up to $1 million per offense

Both state and federal charges can result in long-term consequences, such as a permanent criminal record, loss of professional licenses, and difficulty obtaining future employment.

Common Legal Defenses to Bank Fraud

Being accused of bank fraud does not guarantee a conviction. Several legal defenses may be available, depending on the circumstances of your case. Common defenses include:

• Lack of Intent: Bank fraud requires intent to deceive. If your actions were unintentional or the result of a misunderstanding, your lawyer might argue that there was no intent to commit fraud.
• Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Challenging the sufficiency or credibility of their evidence can weaken their case.
• Mistaken Identity: In cases involving identity theft or online scams, the wrong person may be accused of the crime. A skilled lawyer can present evidence demonstrating your innocence.
• Entrapment: If law enforcement officials pressured or coerced you into committing the crime, your attorney might argue entrapment as a defense.
• Violation of Rights: If evidence was obtained illegally or your rights were violated during the investigation, your lawyer could seek to have the charges reduced or dismissed.

Why Choose the Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC?

With decades of experience in criminal defense, our firm understands the complexities of bank fraud cases. Attorney Patrick J. McLain, a former Marine Corps officer and Judge Advocate, brings discipline, dedication, and strategic insight to every case he handles. Our clients trust us to:

• Provide honest and straightforward legal advice
• Conduct thorough investigations
• Challenge evidence aggressively
• Negotiate skillfully with prosecutors

Advocate passionately in court

We know how stressful and overwhelming criminal charges can be, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Call (214) 238-9392 or contact us online today to let our firm fight for you.