Baltimore PPP – SBA – EIDL Loan Fraud Lawyers

Baltimore PPP – EIDL Loan Fraud Lawyers

The COVID-19 pandemic brought much hardship and uncertainty. To provide relief, the government created programs like the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. These aimed to help small businesses and citizens get through tough times. Sadly, some folks took advantage of the situation. They told lies to get money they didn’t deserve. Now they face charges for fraud.

Luckily, there are skilled lawyers in Baltimore. They can help if you’re accused of PPP or EIDL fraud. This article will explain the charges folks face. It will also share tips on finding the right lawyer. There’s light at the end of the tunnel. Don’t lose hope.

PPP and EIDL Fraud Charges

Let’s look at the types of charges prosecutors bring in PPP and EIDL fraud cases:

• Wire fraud – This means you used phones, internet, etc. to commit fraud.
• Bank fraud – You lied to a bank to get loan money.
• Aggravated identity theft – You used someone else’s identity without permission.
• Money laundering – You hid where fraudulent funds came from.

The penalties can be harsh. Wire fraud and bank fraud carry sentences up to 30 years in prison. Aggravated identity theft adds a mandatory two years. Fines can also be massive – up to $1 million for individuals.

Restitution is also common in fraud cases. This means paying back any money gained illegally. For large PPP and EIDL loans, this can be hundreds of thousands of dollars.

How Do Folks Commit PPP and EIDL Fraud?

There are lots of ways fraudsters game the system. Here are some common schemes:

• Lying on applications – Folks falsify business costs, payroll, number of employees, etc.
• Using fake businesses – Fraudsters create pretend companies to apply for funds.
• Identity theft – Applicants use stolen personal data to submit applications.
• Double dipping – Some folks apply multiple times using the same business.

It’s often not complex or high-tech fraud. Just folks telling simple lies. But these add up to huge losses. The government takes PPP and EIDL fraud very seriously.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

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.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

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!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

Recent Baltimore PPP and EIDL Fraud Cases

There have been many local cases recently. In December 2022, Darnell Hayes pled guilty to wire fraud. He got over $500,000 in PPP and EIDL loans. Hayes lied about his business’s payroll and employees. He was on probation for earlier fraud, but hid that fact.

In August 2021, Monica Weeks was indicted. She allegedly got $1.6 million in fraudulent PPP loans. Weeks claimed to have dozens of employees. But these folks never worked for her companies.

As of August 2022, Maryland courts convicted 14 defendants of federal PPP or EIDL fraud. They face years in prison and must repay over $3 million.

Finding the Right Baltimore PPP – EIDL Fraud Lawyer

If you’re facing charges, don’t go it alone. A skilled lawyer can help minimize penalties. Look for these traits:

• Local experience – Choose someone familiar with Maryland courts and prosecutors.
• Fraud case expertise – Find lawyers with a track record in financial crime cases.
• Negotiation skills – Strong negotiators can secure better plea deals.
• Trial experience – If you can’t plea, you want an attorney who can perform in court.

Also prioritize clear communication. You need updates on strategy and expectations. Don’t hesitate to ask candid questions before hiring a lawyer.

Be wary of lawyers making big promises. No one can guarantee you won’t serve time or pay restitution. Focus on folks with pragmatic approaches.

Building Your Defense Strategy

A strong defense takes time to craft. Your lawyer will likely investigate issues like:

• Your intent – Did you mean to defraud, or was it an accident?
• Mistakes vs lies – Innocent errors weaken the prosecution’s case.
• Cooperation – Helping the investigation can lead to leniency.
• Restitution – Your ability to repay funds will impact sentencing.

Evidence like emails and financial records will help prove your side. Your lawyer may also negotiate with prosecutors. Many cases end in a plea deal well before trial.

Don’t Wait to Get Help

If you get a target letter about PPP or EIDL fraud, take action. The longer you wait, the weaker your position gets. Don’t speak with investigators without your lawyer present. Be polite but firm when asserting your rights.

While the charges are serious, experienced counsel can help. They know how to negotiate and mitigate penalties. There are options between minimum and maximum sentences. Don’t lose hope. Keep your head straight.

Stay Strong and Focused

This is a stressful time, but avoid despair. Stay positive and keep fighting for the best outcome. Focus on the present moment rather than worrying about the future.

• Lean on family and friends for emotional support during this difficult period.
• Stay active with exercise or hobbies – it can improve your mood and reduce anxiety.
• Get enough rest and eat healthy foods – this keeps your mind sharp.
• Write in a journal to process your thoughts and emotions.

Cooperate Fully with Your Attorney

Your lawyer needs your help to build the strongest case possible. Make sure to:

• Be honest and upfront – don’t hide anything that could hurt your case later.
• Promptly provide any documents or information requested.
• Follow your lawyer’s advice – avoid talking to others about your case.
• Show up on time for meetings and court dates.

Full cooperation shows you are taking the charges seriously. It can help gain favor with the judge and prosecutors.

Explore All Options with Your Lawyer

Work closely with your attorney to weigh the pros and cons of different approaches, such as:

• Negotiating a plea deal
• Going to trial
• Seeking a diversion program
• Using pretrial interventions

Don’t decide on any option too quickly. Listen to your lawyer’s guidance while evaluating all potential outcomes.

With persistence and skilled legal help, you can get through this. Have hope for the future after you put this matter behind you.