Federal Bank Fraud Lawyer in Missouri

What Is Federal Bank Fraud?

Federal bank fraud is prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 1344 and involves knowingly executing, or attempting to execute, a scheme to:

• Defraud a financial institution, OR
• Obtain money, assets, or property under the control of a financial institution through false pretenses, representations, or promises

Bank fraud is a broad statute. You don’t have to succeed, even an attempt can result in charges. If the alleged scheme used mail, email, or electronic communications, you may also face wire fraud or mail fraud charges stacked on top.

Examples of Federal Bank Fraud in Missouri

Examples of federal bank fraud charges include:

• Check kiting (writing checks from accounts with insufficient funds)
• Identity theft used to open or access bank accounts
• Submitting false loan applications or mortgage documents
• Creating or depositing counterfeit checks
• Falsifying bank records or financial statements
• Credit card fraud or fraudulent use of debit cards
• Ponzi schemes involving financial institutions
• PPP loan fraud and other pandemic relief fraud schemes

How Federal Bank Fraud Is Investigated in Missouri

Bank fraud cases often involve joint investigations between the FBI, FDIC, IRS-CI, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Investigators may:

• Subpoena bank records and account statements
• Execute search warrants for computers, servers, and files
• Conduct witness interviews and depositions
• Analyze emails, financial ledgers, and transaction histories
• Use cooperating witnesses or undercover operations

Because these investigations often last months or years, early federal legal intervention can sometimes stop charges from being filed at all.

Penalties for Federal Bank Fraud

A conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 1344 carries severe consequences, including:

• Prison: Up to 30 years per count if a financial institution is involved
• Fines: Up to $1,000,000 per count
• Restitution: Mandatory repayment to alleged victims
• Forfeiture: Seizure of any property connected to the alleged fraud
• Supervised Release: Up to five years after prison
• Permanent Criminal Record: Affecting employment and licensing

Missouri Federal Bank Fraud Case Process Timeline

Every case is unique, but here's the typical process you can expect in a federal bank fraud case:

Step 1: Investigation

Federal agencies quietly gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a case before making an arrest.

Step 2: Indictment

A federal grand jury issues formal charges if there is probable cause.

Step 3: Arraignment

You appear in federal court to hear the charges and enter a plea. Bail or release conditions are set.

Step 4: Discovery & Pretrial Motions

Our federal bank fraud lawyers review evidence, challenge search warrants, and file motions to suppress illegally obtained information.

Step 5: Negotiation or Trial

We pursue dismissals, negotiate plea deals, or take the case to trial if it’s in your best interest.

Step 6: Sentencing & Appeals

If convicted, we fight for the lowest possible sentence and pursue appeals or post-conviction relief if needed.

Defenses to Federal Bank Fraud Charges

We build strong defense strategies designed to create reasonable doubt, including:

• Lack of Intent: Proving that mistakes or omissions were not intentional fraud
• Insufficient Evidence: Challenging the government’s ability to link you to the scheme
• Improper Search & Seizure: Suppressing evidence obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment
• Good Faith: Showing that you acted honestly, even if the outcome was unfavorable
• Mistaken Identity: Demonstrating that someone else was responsible

Collateral Consequences of a Bank Fraud Conviction in Missouri

The impact of a federal conviction goes beyond prison time. This can include:

• Loss of professional licenses and ability to work in financial industries
• Difficulty obtaining loans or mortgages
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens
• Permanent damage to reputation and career prospects

Common Myths About Federal Bank Fraud

Misconceptions about federal bank fraud can put your future at risk. Here are some of the most common myths, and the truth behind them:

• “I can’t be charged if the bank didn’t lose money.” False. Even attempted fraud or schemes that caused no financial loss can still result in federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1344.
• “I already paid the bank back, so the case is over.” Repayment or restitution does not automatically prevent prosecution. The government can still pursue criminal charges.
• “Bank fraud is a civil matter, not criminal.” Not true. Bank fraud is a serious federal felony and can lead to prison time, huge fines, and forfeiture of property.
• “Only big financial schemes get prosecuted.” Federal prosecutors regularly charge individuals for single fraudulent transactions or small-scale check or loan fraud.

Understanding the truth about federal bank fraud is the first step toward protecting yourself. Our Missouri federal bank fraud defense lawyers can review your case, correct misconceptions, and build the strongest defense possible.

Federal Bank Fraud FAQ

How long can a federal bank fraud case take?

Bank fraud cases can take months or even years from investigation to resolution. Federal prosecutors usually build their case before indicting, so early intervention by your defense lawyer can shorten the process — or even stop charges before they’re filed.

What’s the difference between bank fraud and wire fraud?

Bank fraud focuses on schemes targeting financial institutions. Wire fraud covers schemes that use electronic communications (emails, phone calls, texts) to further the fraud. Prosecutors often charge both if they can.

Can I be charged if no bank actually lost money?

Yes, even attempted fraud can result in charges if prosecutors believe you had intent to defraud.

Will I go to prison if I’m convicted?

Not always. Sentences depend on the amount of alleged loss, your criminal history, and whether you cooperate with authorities. A skilled Missouri federal bank fraud lawyer can often negotiate for probation, reduced sentences, or alternatives to incarceration.

Can the bank forgive the debt and drop the charges?

No. Even if a bank recovers its losses or chooses not to pursue civil action, the federal government can still prosecute you. Bank fraud is considered a crime against the United States, not just the financial institution.

Can bank fraud charges be negotiated down?

In some cases, yes. Skilled attorneys can negotiate for reduced charges, restitution-only agreements, or non-felony outcomes.

What if I made a mistake or error?

Honest mistakes are not crimes. We work to prove lack of fraudulent intent whenever possible.

Why Choose Combs Waterkotte for Federal Bank Fraud Defense in Missouri

Choosing the right defense attorney for a federal bank fraud case can be the difference between your freedom and years behind bars. At Combs Waterkotte, we combine aggressive advocacy with a strategic, client-focused approach to give you the strongest possible defense in Missouri’s federal courts.

• Client-Centered Advocacy: Transparent communication and customized defense strategies
• Trial-Ready Defense: Every case is prepared for court to maximize leverage
• Strong Resources: Financial experts, investigators, and forensic specialists on your side
• Experience & Expertise: Over 60 years of combined experience and a proven record of case dismissals, acquittals, and reduced charges