Mortgage fraud involves intentionally providing misleading information or omitting crucial details on mortgage documents. The behavior aims to influence decisions made by borrowers, underwriters, or lenders. Notably, it can be perpetrated by both borrowers and lenders. The motive behind mortgage fraud is often deliberate, with the goal of either securing ownership of a property under false pretenses or deceiving someone of their rightful property.
Understanding Arizona mortgage fraud charges is paramount due to the severity of the consequences involved. In the legal context, mortgage fraud is a felony, attracting significant penalties. Individuals facing such charges need to comprehend the gravity of the situation to approach their case strategically. Recognizing the potential consequences empowers individuals to take the charges seriously and make informed decisions about their defense. Hiring a criminal defense lawyer becomes crucial in navigating the complexities of mortgage fraud cases, ensuring a strategic and well-informed approach to legal proceedings.
If you're facing mortgage fraud charges in Phoenix, MayesTelles PLLC is here to provide dedicated legal representation. Contact us at (602) 428-7104.
How Is Mortgage Fraud Defined?
The law concerning residential mortgage fraud is Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-2320. The statute is the legal foundation for identifying and prosecuting instances of mortgage fraud within the state.
Acts comprising mortgage fraud include the following:
- False information during the mortgage lending process: Mortgage fraud typically involves presenting false information during the mortgage lending process. This practice can include:
- Misstatements: Providing inaccurate information.
- Misrepresentations: Deliberately and misleadingly portraying information.
- Ommissions: Withholding important information that could influence lending or borrowing decisions.
The impact of these false elements is significant when the lender, borrower, or another involved party relies on them during the mortgage process.
- Use of false information: Mortgage fraud can extend to using or facilitating false information during the lending process. This includes instances where inaccurate information is not just presented but actively utilized to secure a mortgage.
- Profiting from the transaction: Mortgage fraud can also involve profiting from the transaction through deception. This occurs when an individual knowingly receives proceeds connected to a mortgage loan, fully aware that the loan was secured through fraudulent practices.
- Filing inaccurate mortgage loan documents: Mortgage fraud isn't limited to the initial stages; it can also manifest in submitting incorrect mortgage loan documents to the county recorder. This involves knowingly providing documents that contain misstatements, misrepresentations, or material omissions.
Penalties for Mortgage Fraud in Arizona
Engaging in mortgage fraud in Arizona carries significant criminal consequences, with the severity of penalties determined by the nature and extent of the offense.
The offense is typically a class 4 felony in Arizona. However, if an individual demonstrates a pattern of engaging in mortgage fraud, it can be escalated to a class 2 felony.
Imprisonment
For a class 4 felony, imprisonment can range from 1 to 3.75 years. The specific duration depends on mitigating or aggravating circumstances.
In cases where the offense is charged as a class 2 felony, the imprisonment period increases significantly, ranging from 3 to 12.5 years.
Fines
Fines for felonies in Arizona can reach a maximum of $150,000.
Legal Defenses Against Mortgage Fraud Charges
The complexities of mortgage transactions and the severity of potential consequences underscore the need for a strategic defense. This section explores key legal defenses individuals can employ to challenge mortgage fraud charges.
Lack of Intent
One potent legal defense against mortgage fraud charges is asserting a lack of intent. This defense implies that the accused party was unaware that the information provided constituted a deliberate misstatement, misrepresentation, or material omission.
Establishing a lack of intent requires carefully examining the individual's state of mind and understanding when providing the information.
This defense underscores the importance of proving that inaccuracies were not intentional acts of deception but, instead, the result of oversight or misunderstanding.
Insufficient Evidence
Challenging the evidence presented against an individual is another critical defense strategy. Insufficient proof that the accused party knowingly engaged in mortgage fraud can weaken the prosecution's case.
This defense involves scrutinizing the evidence, questioning its reliability, and highlighting gaps or inconsistencies. Successfully asserting insufficient evidence can cast doubt on the validity of the charges.
Unlawful Searches and Seizures
Another defense avenue involves questioning the legality of the methods used to obtain evidence. If there are grounds to believe that the evidence against the accused was obtained through an unlawful search and seizure, such evidence can be excluded from the legal proceedings. This defense relies on protecting individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures, as guaranteed by constitutional rights.
Legal Defense Strategies
A meticulous review of the information presented in the case is crucial. This includes comprehensively examining all relevant documents, contracts, and communications to identify inaccuracies and assess their significance.
Related paperwork, such as loan applications and financial records, should be thoroughly examined. Identifying inconsistencies or errors in these documents can contribute to building a solid defense.
Engaging financial experts can be instrumental in challenging allegations of mortgage fraud. These professionals can provide insights into complex financial transactions, helping clarify misunderstandings and strengthen the defense's position.
Navigating Mortgage Fraud Charges with Legal Help
Mortgage fraud can have long-term repercussions beyond the immediate legal consequences. The seriousness of the offense underscores the need for individuals to approach these allegations with the utmost caution and a comprehensive understanding of the potential impact on their personal and professional lives.
Given the intricacies inherent in mortgage fraud cases, securing the services of a skilled criminal defense attorney becomes imperative.
MayesTelles PLLC has years of experience defending individuals in Phoenix. Call (602) 428-7104 or reach out online to schedule a free consultation.