Wire fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1343 carries up to 20 years in federal prison. A Wire Fraud lawyer Augusta County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can build your defense. We have 4,739+ firm-wide case results. Contact us 24/7.
Last verified: April 2026 | Augusta County General District Court | 18 U.S.C. § 1343 (official U.S. Code)
Statutory Definition of Wire Fraud
Wire fraud is defined under 18 U.S.C. § 1343 as a scheme to defraud using electronic communications across state lines. A Wire Fraud lawyer Augusta County understands that this federal charge applies to emails, phone calls, and wire transfers. The government must prove intent to defraud and use of interstate wires. Penalties include up to 20 years imprisonment and fines up to $250,000 for individuals. A federal wire fraud defense lawyer Augusta County examines every element of the prosecution’s case.
External Citation Links
- 18 U.S.C. § 1343 (official U.S. Code)
- Augusta County General District Court (official Virginia Courts)
- Contact a Wire Fraud lawyer Augusta County immediately upon learning of a federal investigation.
- Do not speak to investigators without your attorney present.
- Preserve all electronic records and communications related to the alleged scheme.
- Your lawyer will file motions to suppress evidence obtained through improper warrants.
- Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a favorable resolution or prepare for trial.
- Present your defense at trial in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia.
In Augusta County, wire fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1343 carries up to 20 years in federal prison and fines up to $250,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wire Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1343) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 | N/A | Restitution, supervised release, loss of professional licenses |
| Aggravated Wire Fraud (affecting financial institution) | Federal Felony | Up to 30 years | Up to $1,000,000 | N/A | Same as above plus enhanced penalties |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ firm-wide documented case results across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our federal wire fraud defense lawyer Augusta County brings extensive federal court experience.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Shenandoah/Woodstock Location
505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between wire fraud and mail fraud?
Yes. Wire fraud uses electronic communications (email, phone, wire transfer) while mail fraud uses the U.S. Postal Service. Both carry up to 20 years under 18 U.S.C. §§ 1341 and 1343.
Can wire fraud charges be reduced or dismissed?
It depends. A Wire Fraud lawyer Augusta County can challenge the government’s evidence of intent to defraud or interstate nexus. Dismissal is possible if the scheme lacked criminal intent or the wires were purely intrastate.
What should I do if I am under investigation for wire fraud?
No. Do not speak to investigators without a federal wire fraud defense lawyer Augusta County present. Preserve all electronic records and contact an attorney immediately to protect your rights.
How long does a federal wire fraud case take in Augusta County?
6 to 18 months. The Speedy Trial Act requires indictment within 30 days of arrest and trial within 70 days of indictment, but excludable delays can extend the timeline significantly.
What is an electronic fraud charge lawyer Augusta County?
An electronic fraud charge lawyer Augusta County defends clients accused of fraud involving computers, wire transfers, or electronic communications. This includes wire fraud, computer fraud, and identity theft charges under federal law.