Wire Fraud Lawyer Burlington County, NJ
You check the mail and find a letter from the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey. The envelope is stark, and the language inside is even starker: you have been named as a potential target in a federal wire fraud investigation. The allegations describe a scheme using emails, phone calls, or electronic transfers that prosecutors say crossed into Burlington County. A conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 1343 can bring a sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison—or 30 years if a financial institution is involved—along with enormous fines and a permanent criminal record. This is a frightening moment, but it is not a hopeless one. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., led by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with decades of criminal defense experience, represents individuals facing federal wire fraud investigations and charges in Burlington County and throughout New Jersey. To discuss your situation and start building a defense, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel understand the weight of a federal investigation. They know the tools federal agents use, how prosecutors build wire fraud cases, and, most importantly, how to protect a client’s rights from the first contact through trial, if it comes to that. With five state and federal admissions and a history of 4,739+ documented case results firm‑wide since 1997, they bring comprehensive experience to each wire fraud matter in Burlington County. Results may vary.
What Wire Fraud Means in Burlington County
Wire fraud is a federal offense—prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 1343—that makes it a crime to use interstate electronic communications to carry out a scheme to defraud. Unlike many state‑level charges, a wire fraud case is not heard in the Burlington County Superior Court. Instead, it falls within the jurisdiction of the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, which sits in Camden, Newark, and Trenton. Because Burlington County lies within that federal district, a resident of Mount Holly, Moorestown, Medford, or any other Burlington County community who becomes the subject of a wire fraud investigation will face the U.S. Attorney’s Office and, often, agents from the FBI, IRS‑CI, or HSI.
The offense centers on a plan to obtain money or property through false representations and the use of wire communications—emails, phone calls, text messages, or online banking—that cross state lines. Federal prosecutors can bring wire fraud charges even if the underlying scheme was unsuccessful; the focus is on the attempt and the use of the wires. In Burlington County, investigations frequently touch businesses, real‑estate transactions, online investment schemes, and even personal financial dealings. Because the federal system operates with its own sentencing guidelines and no parole, the stakes are exceptionally high.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Wire Fraud Cases
A wire fraud defense begins the moment a person learns they are under investigation—often well before an indictment is returned. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel focus first on preventing charges altogether. If a target letter arrives or agents request an interview, they act immediately to engage with prosecutors, preserve evidence, and, when possible, persuade the government not to seek an indictment. Their insight as former prosecutors gives them a clear view of the government’s strategies and the weaknesses that may exist in its case.
If charges are filed, the defense proceeds through the federal court process. The team examines the government’s evidence for gaps in proof of intent, challenges the sufficiency of the alleged scheme, and moves to suppress electronic evidence obtained without proper warrants. Where the evidence is strong, they focus on mitigating the client’s exposure—negotiating plea agreements that minimize guideline ranges, seeking cooperation credit, or preparing for trial with a well‑developed defense theory. Throughout, clients are kept informed and involved in every decision.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has practiced criminal defense since 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, and his work in federal court encompasses the full spectrum of white‑collar and fraud offenses. Alongside his Of Counsel, Mr. Sris brings a careful, disciplined approach to each case. Between them, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have over 120 years of combined legal experience and have documented 4,739+ case results firm‑wide. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am contacted by federal agents about a wire fraud case in Burlington County?
You should politely decline to speak with federal agents without an attorney present and immediately contact a federal criminal defense lawyer. Anything you say—no matter how innocent it seems—can be used against you in a later prosecution. Federal agents may appear friendly, but their goal is to gather evidence. Invoking your right to remain silent and asking for counsel is not an admission of guilt; it is a basic constitutional protection. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can communicate with investigators on your behalf, determine the scope of the investigation, and advise you before any interview takes place.
What are the penalties for wire fraud under federal law?
Wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years imprisonment and a fine, or up to 30 years if the scheme targeted a financial institution. The actual sentence is determined by the federal sentencing guidelines, which consider factors such as the dollar amount of the intended loss, the defendant’s role in the offense, and any acceptance of responsibility. Federal sentences are served in the Bureau of Prisons, and there is no parole. Additional consequences can include restitution orders, asset forfeiture, and long‑term supervised release.
How does a federal wire fraud prosecution begin?
A federal wire fraud case typically begins with an investigation by the FBI or another federal agency, which may result in a grand jury indictment if probable cause is found. Agents may subpoena records, execute search warrants, or interview witnesses. If the U.S. Attorney’s Office believes there is enough evidence, it presents the case to a federal grand jury. The grand jury does not decide guilt; it decides whether probable cause exists to issue an indictment. Once indicted, the defendant faces arraignment, pretrial proceedings, and either a trial or a plea resolution.
Do I need a lawyer if I am just a witness or only under investigation?
Yes, even if you have not been charged, retaining a lawyer early can protect your rights and influence the outcome. A witness today can become a target tomorrow. An experienced federal defense attorney can determine whether you are truly a witness or if prosecutors view you as an accomplice. Early legal intervention can help you avoid self‑incrimination, preserve evidence favorable to you, and, in some cases, persuade the government to close the investigation without filing charges.
Can a wire fraud charge be defended?
Yes, several defenses may be available, depending on the facts of the case. Common defenses include a lack of intent to defraud—showing that the accused acted in good faith or believed the representations were true. The defense may also argue that the government cannot prove a scheme existed, that the wire communication was not made in furtherance of the scheme, or that the government obtained its evidence in violation of the Fourth or Fifth Amendment. Each case is unique, and Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel evaluate the specific facts to determine the strongest strategy.
How do I find a qualified wire fraud lawyer in Burlington County?
Look for an attorney with proven federal criminal defense experience, familiarity with the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, and a history of handling complex fraud investigations. Federal wire fraud is not a matter for a general practitioner. You want counsel who understands the federal sentencing guidelines, the U.S. Attorney’s practices in the District of New Jersey, and the nuances of white‑collar defense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., through Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel, offers that focused experience and is available by phone at (888) 437-7747.
For a more detailed statutory analysis of wire fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1343, see our comprehensive guide on srislawyer.com.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Attorney responsible for this advertising: Mr. Sris.
Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.