Federal Mail Fraud Lawyer in Missouri

What Is Federal Mail Fraud?

Federal mail fraud is one of the most commonly charged white-collar crimes, and one of the broadest. Under 18 U.S.C. § 1341, mail fraud occurs when someone uses the U.S. Postal Service or a private mail carrier like FedEx or UPS to further a plan or scheme intended to obtain money, property, or services through deception or false pretenses. This does not mean the entire alleged fraud must involve the mail, even a single letter, invoice, contract, or package sent through the mail that furthers the alleged scheme can trigger a federal mail fraud charge.

Understanding this charge is critical, because a single count of mail fraud can carry up to 20 years in prison, and prosecutors often stack multiple counts for each mailing. That’s why having a Missouri federal mail fraud defense lawyer on your side from the very beginning is essential to protect your future.

How You Can be Charged With Federal Mail Fraud in Missouri

Prosecutors must generally prove three key elements to convict you of mail fraud:

1. A Scheme to Defraud: There must be evidence of a deliberate plan to deceive or cheat someone out of money, property, or honest services.
2. Use of the Mail: The scheme must have involved sending or receiving something through the U.S. mail or a private interstate carrier—even if the mailing was routine, such as sending a receipt, confirmation, or check.
3. Intent to Defraud: The government must show you acted knowingly and intentionally with the purpose of carrying out the fraud.

Because the statute is so broad, federal prosecutors often add mail fraud charges to other white-collar cases like healthcare fraud, insurance fraud, or investment scams. This allows them to bring the case into federal court, where penalties are harsher, sentencing guidelines are stricter, and conviction rates are higher. In short, if any part of the alleged scheme touched the mail, you could be facing a federal felony with severe consequences.

How Federal Mail Fraud Cases Are Investigated

These cases are usually investigated by agencies like the FBI, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and sometimes the IRS or DOJ. Investigations often involve:

• Tracking mailed communications and packages
• Reviewing financial records, bank statements, and business documents
• Executing search warrants to seize computers and records
• Using undercover operations or cooperating witnesses
• Subpoenaing email accounts, phone records, and third-party data

By the time charges are filed, federal prosecutors often have months or years of evidence built up. That’s why early legal intervention is so critical.

Common Examples of Federal Mail Fraud Charges in Missouri

Federal mail fraud covers a wide range of conduct, including:

• Insurance fraud schemes that use mailed forms or checks
• Mortgage or real estate fraud involving mailed documents
• Business opportunity or investment scams using mail solicitations
• Government benefits fraud tied to mailed applications
• Healthcare fraud, including Medicare or Medicaid claims sent through the mail
• Mailing counterfeit checks or invoices
• Charity fraud and disaster relief scams

Penalties for Federal Mail Fraud in Missouri

The stakes in a mail fraud case are extremely high. If convicted, you face:

• Prison: Up to 20 years in federal prison—up to 30 years if the fraud affected a financial institution or disaster relief funds.
• Fines: Up to $250,000 for individuals and $1,000,000 for organizations.
• Restitution: Mandatory repayment to alleged victims.
• Forfeiture: Seizure of assets connected to the alleged scheme.
• Supervised Release: Years of federal supervision after prison time.
• Permanent Felony Record: Affecting employment, licensing, and housing.

Federal Case Timeline for Mail Fraud Charges in Missouri

Here’s what to expect if you are investigated for or charged with federal mail fraud in Missouri:

Step 1: Investigation

Federal agents gather evidence, subpoena records, and interview witnesses. Many clients first learn of an investigation through a target letter or search warrant.

Step 2: Indictment

Prosecutors present evidence to a grand jury, which may issue an indictment. An arrest or summons follows.

Step 3: Arraignment

Charges are read, a plea is entered, and bail conditions are set.

Step 4: Discovery & Motions

Your Missouri federal mail fraud lawyer reviews the government’s evidence and files motions to suppress, dismiss, or limit what can be presented at trial.

Step 5: Negotiation or Trial

Many cases resolve through plea agreements, but we prepare every case for trial to give you leverage.

Step 6: Sentencing & Appeals

If convicted, your federal mail fraud lawyer can argue for leniency, appeal errors, or seek post-conviction relief.

Consequences Beyond Prison Time for a Federal Mail Fraud Conviction

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

• Loss of professional licenses and credentials
• Ineligibility for certain loans and federal programs
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens
• Reputational harm that affects business and career opportunities

Defenses to Federal Mail Fraud Charges

Our Missouri federal mail fraud attorneys develop a defense strategy tailored to your case, which may include:

• Lack of Intent: Proving you did not intend to defraud anyone.
• No Use of Mail: Arguing that the mail was not used in furtherance of the alleged scheme.
• Insufficient Evidence: Challenging the government’s proof of a fraudulent scheme.
• Constitutional Violations: Suppressing evidence obtained through illegal searches or seizures.
• Mistaken Identity or False Accusations: Showing you were wrongly implicated.

Federal Mail Fraud FAQ

What is the difference between mail fraud and wire fraud?

Mail fraud involves the postal service or private carriers, while wire fraud uses electronic communications. Both are federal felonies with similar penalties.

Can I be charged if I didn’t personally mail anything?

Yes. If prosecutors can show you caused or knew mailings would occur as part of a scheme, you can still be charged.

Are there defenses if I didn’t intend to defraud anyone?

Yes. Lack of intent is a powerful defense. We work to show you acted in good faith or made a mistake, not a crime.

Why Choose Combs Waterkotte for Federal Mail Fraud Defense in Missouri

Choosing the right defense attorney for a federal mail 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 Approach: We keep you informed and involved every step of the way.
• Trial-Ready Preparation: We build your case as if it’s going to trial, and prosecutors know it.
• Extensive Resources: Forensic accountants, investigators, and expert witnesses to dismantle the government’s case.
• Proven Results: Over 60 years of combined experience and expertise in handling complex federal white-collar cases.