In Prince George’s County, mail fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1341 carries up to 20 years in federal prison. A Mail Fraud Lawyer Prince Georges County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense against these serious charges. Our firm has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. Contact us today.
Mail fraud is defined under federal law at 18 U.S.C. § 1341. The statute prohibits using the United States Postal Service or any private or commercial interstate carrier (such as UPS or FedEx) to execute a scheme to defraud. The government must prove: (1) the defendant knowingly participated in a scheme to defraud; (2) the defendant acted with specific intent to defraud; and (3) the defendant used the mail or a commercial interstate carrier in furtherance of the scheme. This is a specific intent crime, meaning the prosecution must show you intended to deceive someone for money or property.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | 18 U.S.C. § 1341 (official U.S. Code)
Mail fraud specifically targets schemes that use the postal system or private carriers. Unlike wire fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1343), which involves electronic communications, mail fraud focuses on physical mailings. The statute covers everything from fraudulent business solicitations to insurance fraud schemes where documents are mailed. A federal mail fraud defense lawyer Prince George’s County must understand the nuances of what constitutes “use of the mail” under this statute.
Review the official statute: 18 U.S.C. § 1341 (Mail Fraud) — official U.S. Code via Cornell LII. For federal court procedures in Maryland, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland official website.
In Prince George’s County, federal mail fraud cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland, Greenbelt Division. The government often relies on mail covers (records of mail sent to a particular address) and witness testimony to build their case. A postal fraud charge lawyer Prince George’s County must scrutinize whether the mailing was actually in furtherance of the alleged scheme — a common defense challenge.
- Step 1 — Initial Consultation: Contact a Mail Fraud Lawyer Prince Georges County immediately. Do not speak to investigators without counsel.
- Step 2 — Grand Jury Investigation: If a federal grand jury subpoena arrives, your attorney will negotiate your appearance and assert your Fifth Amendment rights.
- Step 3 — Indictment or Information: Once charged, you will be arraigned in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, Greenbelt Division.
- Step 4 — Pretrial Motions: Your lawyer will file motions to suppress evidence, dismiss the indictment, or challenge the sufficiency of the mailing element.
- Step 5 — Plea Negotiation or Trial: The government may offer a plea deal. Your attorney will advise whether to accept or proceed to trial.
- Step 6 — Sentencing: If convicted, federal sentencing guidelines apply. Your lawyer will argue for a sentence below the guidelines based on mitigating factors.
In Prince George’s County, mail fraud carries severe federal penalties including prison time, fines, and supervised release.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mail Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1341) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) or $500,000 (organization) | None directly, but professional licenses may be affected | Restitution to victims; supervised release up to 5 years; asset forfeiture |
| Mail Fraud Affecting a Financial Institution | Federal Felony | Up to 30 years | Up to $1,000,000 | None directly, but professional licenses may be affected | Restitution; supervised release; asset forfeiture; potential debarment from federal programs |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.” Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution statute), demonstrating deep legal experience. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the government builds mail fraud cases.
Secondary attorney: Mr. Sris, Owner & CEO, Managing Attorney. Former prosecutor. Founded firm 1997. Bar: VA, MD, DC, NJ, NY. Personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3.
SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. These results span federal criminal defense, including mail fraud cases, across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Rockville/MD location serves clients at Prince George’s County courts, accessible via I-495, I-95, Route 301, Route 4, Route 5, and Route 202. Mail Fraud Lawyer Prince Georges County services are available near FedExField, National Harbor, UMD College Park, and Joint Base Andrews. We serve Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, and Suitland. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
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What is mail fraud under federal law?
Yes. Mail fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1341 is using the U.S. Postal Service or private carrier to execute a scheme to defraud. The government must prove intent to defraud and use of the mail in furtherance of the scheme. Penalties include up to 20 years in federal prison.
Can I get probation for a first-time mail fraud offense in Prince George’s County?
It depends. Federal sentencing guidelines consider the loss amount, your role, and criminal history. First-time offenders with low loss amounts may qualify for probation, but mail fraud carries a statutory maximum of 20 years. A Mail Fraud Lawyer Prince Georges County can argue for a below-guidelines sentence.
How does the government prove mail fraud in federal court?
The government must prove three elements: (1) a scheme to defraud, (2) specific intent to defraud, and (3) use of the mail or interstate carrier in furtherance of the scheme. Mail covers, witness testimony, and documentary evidence are common proof methods.
What is the difference between mail fraud and wire fraud?
Mail fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1341) involves physical mailings through the U.S. Postal Service or private carriers. Wire fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1343) involves electronic communications like phone calls, emails, or wire transfers. Both carry up to 20 years in prison.
Should I speak to federal investigators without a lawyer present?
No. Never speak to federal investigators without a lawyer present. Anything you say can be used against you. Invoke your right to remain silent and your right to counsel immediately. Contact a federal mail fraud defense lawyer Prince George’s County before any interview.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.