How to Respond to a Federal Subpoena for Wire Fraud

Wire fraud is one of the broadest and most overcharged federal crimes in New Jersey. If you received a federal subpoena seeking information related to potential wire fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1343, immediately contact fraud crimes defense attorney Peter Katz. Do not ignore the subpoena, but do not contact prosecutors or law enforcement officials before speaking with a federal white-collar defense lawyer. Confidentially call (609) 849-3179 or connect with his New Jersey fraud charges team online today.

Steps for Responding to a Federal Wire Fraud Subpoena in NJ

Federal subpoenas are often precursors to criminal charges. If you received a subpoena from the U.S. District Court in New Jersey for wire fraud, it means the government believes you have information related to a federal white-collar crime. Whether the subpoena requests that you appear to give testimony, attend a deposition, or provide documentary evidence, immediately take the following steps.

Step 1: Contact a Private Wire Fraud Defense Lawyer

Even if you haven’t been charged with a crime, you need private defense counsel to both analyze and respond to a federal subpoena. He will be able to challenge any unlawful requests for evidence and help you understand your rights during criminal investigations. Do not delay; reach out to the AUSA. You need a private white-collar defense lawyer at this stage.

Step 2: Understand Your Rights

You have the right to be free from self-incrimination, which means you cannot be compelled to provide testimony related to wire fraud to a grand jury. This does not mean you can ignore the subpoena, but you can refuse to answer potentially incriminating questions as they’re asked. At federal grand jury hearings, you have the right to consult with defense counsel outside the grand jury room. You do not, however, have the right to private counsel to make objections during this stage. You must prepare for any required testimony with your wire fraud defense lawyer before appearing.

Step 3: Gather Evidence with Legal Help

Wire fraud charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1343 allege that you used wire, radio, or television communications in furtherance of a fraudulent scheme to obtain money or property. Wire communications include the following:

• Cell phone calls
• Text messages
• Emails
• Social media messaging
• Information sent via the internet

Most wire fraud subpoenas request extensive cell phone and electronic banking records, which can be impossible for you to obtain within the allotted time frame. If providing this information could support wire fraud charges, do not submit any documentation to prosecutors without first speaking with a white-collar defense attorney in New Jersey. Even a single charge of wire fraud can carry significant fines and prison terms of up to 20 years, and most offenders will face multiple wire fraud charges.

Contact an Experienced NJ Wire Fraud Defense Lawyer Today

Federal wire fraud subpoenas generally indicate you’re being investigated for potential felony-level fraud. Do not attempt to justify yourself to prosecutors or law enforcement. Instead, immediately contact New Jersey white-collar defense lawyer Peter Katz to discuss the best approach for responding to a subpoena. Confidentially contact his federal criminal defense team today online or at (609) 849-3179.