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Trusted Defense For Complex Criminal Cases Mail Fraud

Orange County Mail Fraud Lawyer

Fiercely Defending Clients Across California

Mail fraud is a federal crime, as the United States postal service functions under the power of the federal government. Charges for mail fraud are among the most common federal crimes brought to courtrooms every year. Those accused of these offenses are suspected of scheming to defraud others of money, assets, or property under false pretenses and using the mail service to achieve these aims.

To successfully prosecute a charge of mail fraud, opposing counsel must establish that the defendant fully intended to defraud other parties of their money, assets, or property. Unfortunately, this can be relatively easy for some prosecutors to prove in a court of law, as simply stamping and mailing an item can sometimes be considered intent.

If you have been charged under suspicion of mail fraud, it is important that you seek legal representation as soon as possible. You needn’t defend your case against state and county prosecutors alone. Attorney Diane C. Bass has years of experience defending clients in and around Orange County, California, and would be proud to represent you in court.

What Constitutes Mail Fraud?

According to federal law, mail fraud occurs when an individual or group devises a criminal scheme to defraud others for purposes of “obtaining money or property by means of false or fraudulent pretenses, representations or promises” and uses the postal service to carry out that scheme.

While originally mail fraud was a matter only for parcels carried by the USPS, the law now extends to items delivered by other services that have sprung up in the time since the laws were originally written. Mail fraud cases where the letter was delivered to and from addresses within the state of California are subject to state laws. Those involving interstate mail fall under the jurisdiction of the federal government.

What is Honest Services Fraud?

Honest services fraud falls under the umbrella of mail fraud but does not necessarily require the use of mail to commit a crime. In 1987, the Supreme Court ruled that mail fraud should extend beyond stealing a person’s assets and include their rights as well.

Honest services fraud preys on individuals by abusing positions of power, demanding bribes, or committing other acts of public corruption and misuse of public trust.

Prosecutors treat honest services fraud similarly to mail and wire fraud. The accusations are broad and may require a strong legal defense attorney well-versed in the laws.

What is Mail Tampering?

Your mailbox does not belong to you; it belongs to the United States Postal Service. While not as severe as mail fraud allegations, the charges for mail tampering reach far and wide, meaning more people are at risk of committing offenses than they might realize.

Putting items into mailboxes can be considered a crime, even if it is something as harmless as an unstamped birthday card. Similarly, taking or stealing deliveries from the mailboxes of other property can be considered a crime. Mailbox vandalism can also result in harsh consequences under the law. Mail tampering can result in fines between $5,000 and $250,000, depending on the particulars of the offense.

Though there are potentially severe charges for mail tampering, a strong defense could help you avoid harsh sentencing. With the help of defense lawyer Diane C. Bass, you may be able to avoid steep fines and other penalties.

What Are the Potential Penalties for a Mail Fraud Conviction?

The legal consequences of mail fraud can be severe. If convicted, the defendant risks the possibility of fines up to hundreds of thousands of dollars and decades behind bars. In most extreme cases, like those that affect a financial institution, those convicted may even see punishments of fines close to a million dollars and up to thirty years in prison.

Mail fraud charges are generally coupled with other criminal charges. The defendant may be found guilty of not only mail fraud but also racketeering, conspiracy, bank fraud, or tax fraud. These additional charges can come with enhanced sentencing, possibly resulting in additional years spent behind bars and more costly financial penalties.

With a strong defense, however, one could potentially see charges dropped, possibly resulting in no fines and zero days spent behind bars in a state or county prison.

Protecting Your Rights in Mail Fraud Cases

When facing allegations of mail fraud, it is crucial to have a skilled and experienced attorney on your side to protect your rights and build a strong defense. At the Law Office of Diane C. Bass, our team is dedicated to fiercely defending clients across California who are accused of mail fraud.

Mail fraud encompasses a wide range of criminal activities, including schemes to defraud individuals or businesses using the mail system. Our Orange County mail fraud lawyers have a deep understanding of the laws surrounding mail fraud and will work tirelessly to investigate the circumstances of your case and develop a strategic defense strategy.

By choosing our law firm, you can expect:

  • Personalized attention and guidance throughout the legal process
  • Thorough investigation and analysis of the evidence against you
  • Aggressive representation in and out of the courtroom
  • Clear communication and updates on the progress of your case

Don't face mail fraud charges alone. Contact the Law Office of Diane C. Bass today to schedule a consultation and start building your defense.

To speak about your charges, call for your case evaluation. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with our Orange County mail fraud lawyer at the Law Office of Diane C. Bass: (949) 990-4195.

Contact the Law Office of Defense Attorney Diane C. Bass to Schedule Your Consultation

If you are suspected of committing mail fraud, it is important that you understand these charges are serious and could result in extreme sentencing if you are found guilty in court. The government will employ aggressive prosecutors to pursue charges against you, so it is vital that you hire an attorney who will defend your best interests with just as much tenacity.

Defense lawyer Diane C. Bass has years of experience representing clients who have been accused of a number of types of white-collar crimes.  She has an outstanding reputation among clients and her fellow lawyers as a legal representative who offers dedicated, steadfast law service to those she is hired to defend. Attorney Diane C. Bass has defended some of the biggest, most high-profile cases in Southern California and would be proud to be your representative in the courtroom.

To speak about your charges, call for your case evaluation. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with our Orange County mail fraud lawyer at the Law Office of Diane C. Bass: (949) 990-4195.

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    "She will put your anxiety at ease and get you through the tangled system."
    Diane is the perfect mix of gentle understanding and fierce action you’ll need if you find yourself dealing with the OC court system.
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    My first impression was that she’s very experienced, no-nonsense, knows the law, how the system works, and was very busy as a result. I quickly realized that she exceeded even those first impressions but also cared very much about my story, needs, an
    - Daniel B.
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    First of all, I would like to thank Diane for everything she has done for me. From the start of my case, she has been there for me. Only very few people were granted bond and she pulled it off in my case. I know for a fact not too many lawyers could have done that. I am on probation for three years.. while “the others” will not have the chance to raise their children and live their lives. I was headed to prison….I am free.. and for that, I am forever grateful.
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    After meeting with Diane I felt immediate comfort, and I was sold on the fact that I could trust this amazing person with my life. Diane Bass was there for me every step of the way like no other attorney had ever been.
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    "She is not afraid to battle for you. With her, you will never be alone."
    Diane is a brilliant attorney. She listens carefully to your problems and clearly advises you with honesty. She was with me from the first day of my case and I have never been disappointed in any way.
    - Maria K.
    "I highly recommend Diane if you are dealing with legal troubles of your own."
    Since this being my first Federal offense, I had no idea what to expect. I was extremely anxious. After talking to Diane, I felt like she was the attorney I needed to help me get through these challenging times. Her professionalism and knowledge of the law
    - Adam P.
    "Diane’s work is second to none."

    Diane’s work is second to none. I was charged with felony DV, and after working with one firm in Irvine that did absolutely nothing, I did some hard research and found Diane. She worked quickly and diligently and got the case dismissed. I absolutely don’t foresee me needing a criminal lawyer down the road, but if I do, it’ll be Diane hands down!

    - Shadic A.
    "Diane is the most professional, thorough attorney I have ever met."
    Her expertise, connections, analysis, and comprehensive review of my situation were more than I could ever ask. I am extremely grateful and couldn't be happier with my choice!
    - Jeff R.

Why Choose Law Office of Diane C. Bass?

  • Top-Rated & Award-Winning Legal Representation
    We consistently deliver results that exceed expectations, earning the trust of clients and accolades from the legal community.
  • 25+ Years of Criminal Defense Legal Experience
    With over 25 years of criminal defense legal experience, we bring a wealth of seasoned insight and a proven track record of success to every case we handle.
  • Extensive Knowledge & Experience With Federal Cases
    With extensive knowledge and experience in federal cases, we offer comprehensive legal strategies tailored to the complexities of each situation.
  • An Outstanding Reputation Amongst Clients & Peers
    Our reputation among clients and peers alike reflects our unwavering dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes for those we represent.
  • Featured in the Media
    Attorney Bass is frequently featured in media outlets such as The Washington Post, LA Times, ESPN, Forbes, the Wall Street Journal and more.
  • Track Record of Success
    With a track record of handling some of the most significant cases in the Central District of California, our firm brings unmatched experience to every client's defense.
  • Selected by Super Lawyers Since 2022
  • Avvo 10.0 Rating
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Orange County Bar Association
  • Top 100 Lawyers

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