SBA PPP Loan Fraud Lawyers – Paycheck Protection Fraud Defense
Nationwide SBA Paycheck Protection PPP Fraud Attorneys and Criminal False Claims Act Defense Lawyers
NATIONWIDE HELP IF YOU ARE INDICTED – SBA PPP LOAN MUST $450K OR MORE: Our SBA PPP Loan Fraud Lawyers Defend Business Owners Nationwide Who Are Under Investigation for False Claims Act PPP loan fraud, Received a Civil Investigative Demand or Subpoena, OR have been indicated and are heading to trial.
We specifically defend small businesses with disputes under the SBA affiliation regulations and business ownership rule 13 CFR 121.301. If you fit any of these categories, Call Us Immediately at 1.866.601.5518.
PPP Loan Subpoena? Or Indicted? This is a Serious Threat to Your Business
You applied for a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan to keep your business afloat during unprecedented times. Now, instead of relief, you face a legal nightmare. A federal agent brings a Civil Investigative Demand (CID) or PPP loan fraud subpoena to your door, accusing you of PPP loan fraud. The government scrutinizes your actions, threatening not just hefty fines but also the terrifying prospect of PPP loan fraud jail time.
This is a full-blown crisis that can dismantle your livelihood, stain your reputation, and strip away your freedom. At Watson & Associates, LLC, our team of SBA PPP loan lawyers understands the gravity of your situation. As SBA PPP fraud attorneys, we are here to defend you against these serious allegations and help you navigate the legal maze.
Please Read Below Carefully
- PLEASE ONLY CALL IF YOUR SBA PPP LOAN WAS $ 450K OR MORE
- We ONLY HANDLE CASES WHERE YOU HAVE BEEN CONTACTED BY THE SBA OIG, FBI, OR DOJ (ISSUED A CID, OR SUBPOENA OR YOU / YOUR BUSINESS HAS BEEN INDICTED)
- WE DO NOT INVESTIGATE CLAIMS OF IDENTITY THEFT
We are Nationwide SBA PPP Loan Fraud Attorneys: If you did not intend to commit fraud, then you may have a defense against your PPP Fraud Case. If you made an honest mistake or had professional direction, there may be arguments for an honest mistake, and you may be unaware that you were providing false information on your paycheck protection plan loan application. These are all reasons why you must call us if you are investigated and/or charged with PPP loan fraud.
DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE FALSE CLAIMS ACT DEFENSE CHECKLIST - MINIMIZE JAIL TIME
13 CFR 121.301 – The Reality of PPP Loan Fraud False Claims Act Investigations
The PPP loan program was designed to provide swift financial aid during the pandemic. However, the rapid rollout led to complex rules that many businesses struggled to interpret. The government is now vigorously pursuing PPP loan fraud False Claims Act investigations, often treating innocent mistakes as criminal acts.
If you’ve been targeted, the stakes are incredibly high. Federal authorities, including the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Small Business Administration (SBA), are not just looking for repayment—they’re seeking criminal penalties. Our SBA PPP fraud lawyers know how to build a defense that protects your rights and challenges the government’s case at every turn.
Types of SBA PPP Loan Fraud Allegations
Nationwide PPP loan forgiveness and government PPP fraud lawyers: Businesses and individuals face a range of allegations under PPP loan fraud charges, including:
- False Certification of Business Size or Affiliates: Misrepresenting your business size or affiliation status under 13 CFR 121.301 can result in False Claims Act charges.
- Misuse of PPP Funds: Spending the loan on non-qualifying expenses, such as personal debts or unauthorized business activities, is a common accusation.
- Stacking Multiple PPP Loans: Securing multiple loans through different businesses or entities when ineligible is a violation often investigated as PPP fraud.
- False Information in Loan Applications: Providing inaccurate information about payroll, employees, or revenue is a red flag for investigators.
- PPP Business Ownership and SBA Affiliation disputes.
Watch this video about false claims actions. It is relevant to PPP loans.
Constitutional Defense in Federal Fraud Cases – Usually Overlooked – Our PPP Faud Lawyers Protect Your Rights
When the government investigates fraud allegations—whether in government contracts, healthcare billing, or procurement fraud—they often push legal boundaries to build their case. Many defense attorneys focus only on the criminal or regulatory aspects of these charges. However, constitutional violations are often the key to dismantling the prosecution’s case, and this is where our firm stands apart.
Federal agencies frequently obtain evidence through search warrants, subpoenas, and surveillance, but these methods are not always legally sound. If investigators exceed the scope of a warrant, seize protected business records, or conduct unlawful searches and seizures, they may have violated your Fourth Amendment rights. Evidence obtained improperly can often be challenged and suppressed, significantly weakening the case against you.
Unlike other firms that only understand the criminal and regulatory aspects of fraud cases, our team includes constitutional lawyers who analyze every detail of how evidence was gathered. We scrutinize whether the government relied on unlawful wiretaps, forced statements, or overbroad document seizures—critical mistakes that could lead to case dismissals or reduced charges.
If you are being investigated or charged with fraud, do not assume the government followed the law in building its case. A single constitutional violation could change the outcome of your case. Contact our firm today to discuss how we can protect your rights and your future. Speak to Theodore Watson. Call 1.866.601.5518.
Responding to a PPP Loan Subpoena or Civil Investigative Demand (CID)
Receiving a PPP loan subpoena or a Civil Investigative Demand (CID) can be alarming. These are not mere requests; they are demands for evidence and information indicating the government is seriously investigating you. How you respond is critical.
At Watson & Associates, LLC, our SBA paycheck protection fraud lawyers quickly analyze the nature of the CID or subpoena, guide you through the legal requirements, and develop a strategic plan to respond effectively.
The goal is to resolve the issue without escalating to criminal charges. Our proactive approach aims to clarify misunderstandings, present mitigating evidence, and negotiate with authorities to safeguard your business interests.
Federal Indictments and Criminal Charges: Facing the Worst-Case Scenario
You’re facing a severe and costly legal battle if you’ve been indicted for PPP loan fraud. Criminal Charges can include wire fraud, conspiracy, and violations of the False Claims Act. These allegations are not just paperwork—they represent an intent to prosecute, potentially leading to PPP loan fraud jail time.
Our team of PPP loan fraud lawyers at Watson & Associates, LLC understands the full scope of what’s at stake. We dive deep into the evidence, dissect the government’s case, and identify inconsistencies or overreaches in the prosecution.
We bring our extensive knowledge of SBA regulations and federal law to bear, crafting a defense strategy that aims to either dismiss the charges or significantly reduce penalties.
What are Potential Charges for PPP Loan Fraud?
When companies or individuals have been indicted or charged with PPP fraud, they may face a range of federal offenses. These charges vary in nature but often carry severe penalties. A PPP loan fraud lawyer can provide crucial guidance in understanding these potential charges, which may include the following:
1. Violations of the False Claims Act (31 USC 3729 – 3733)
The False Claims Act prohibits knowingly submitting false or fraudulent claims for federal funds. Providing misleading information on a PPP loan application or submitting a deceptive loan forgiveness certification can lead to prosecution under this statute. Convictions may result in substantial financial penalties and other legal consequences. Call our paycheck protection fraud lawyers for immediate help.
2. Making False Statements to the SBA (18 USC 1014)
Under this law, knowingly making false statements to the Small Business Administration (SBA) is a federal offense. Since the SBA oversees PPP loans, misrepresentations during the application or forgiveness process can result in fines of up to $1 million and up to 30 years in prison.
3. Providing False Information to an FDIC-Insured Bank (18 USC. 1014)
This statute applies to false statements made to FDIC-insured financial institutions. If a business or individual submits fraudulent information to secure PPP loan funds, they may face similar penalties to those imposed for false statements to the SBA.
4. Bank Fraud (18 USC 1344)
This charge applies to individuals or companies that engage in deceptive practices to defraud financial institutions. Submitting false PPP loan information with intent to obtain funds unlawfully can lead to fines of up to $1 million and up to 30 years of federal imprisonment.
5. Wire Fraud (18 USC 1343)
Since many PPP loan applications and transactions are conducted online, fraudulent activity involving internet communication can trigger wire fraud charges. Penalties may include fines of up to $500,000 and 20 years in federal prison.
6. Aggravated Identity Theft (18 USC 1028A)
Using stolen or misappropriated personal or business information to obtain PPP loan funds can result in aggravated identity theft charges. This offense carries a mandatory two-year prison sentence, which must be served consecutively with any other related convictions.
7. Tax Evasion (26 USC 7201)
Improper use of PPP loan funds or falsely claiming deductions for expenses covered by those funds can result in federal tax evasion charges. Penalties may include up to five years in prison and fines of up to $100,000 for individuals or $500,000 for corporations.
8. Making False Statements to Federal Agents (18 USC 1001)
During investigations by agencies such as the SBA-OIG, DOJ, or FBI, providing false information to federal agents can result in serious charges. Convictions can lead to fines of up to $250,000 for individuals or $500,000 for corporations, along with a maximum of five years in prison.
9. Conspiracy (18 U.S.C. § 371 and 18 U.S.C. § 1349)
Conspiring with others to commit PPP loan fraud is a federal offense that carries penalties equal to those for the completed fraud itself. Establishing a strong defense strategy is crucial when facing conspiracy allegations.
10. Attempt (18 U.S.C. § 1349)
Even unsuccessful efforts to commit PPP loan fraud—such as attempting to submit a false application or filing a fraudulent loan forgiveness certification—can lead to criminal charges. Attempt charges carry the same penalties as the intended offense.
Given the complexity of these charges, consulting a PPP loan fraud lawyer is essential for anyone facing allegations related to fraudulent PPP loan activities. Legal representation can help navigate federal investigations and build a strategic defense to mitigate potential penalties.
Minimize PPP Fraud Penalties: PPP Loan Frauds Jail Time and Fines
If convicted in a federal criminal trial, you can face an enormous amount jail time. Having the right PPP fraud lawyer is critical because he or she can negotiate more favorable terms. Fines can be multiplied by the amount of criminally derived property involved in each money laundering count. Sentencing in PPP loan fraud cases, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account several variables.
The consequences of a conviction for PPP loan fraud are chilling. Individuals can face imprisonment, with sentences extending up to 20 years for each count of wire fraud. Financial penalties can be staggering, including triple damages under the False Claims Act and fines reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars.
These penalties can cripple your business, destroy your finances, and strip away your freedom. With Watson & Associates, LLC’s paycheck protection fraud lawyers on your side, you have a team of SBA PPP loan fraud attorneys committed to fighting for the best possible outcome, whether through negotiation or courtroom defense.
How Can Our SBA Lawyers Defend You in PPP Loan Fraud Cases
If you are facing federal charges for PPP loan fraud, Watson & Associates SBA lawyers and PPP criminal defense attorneys may be able to use various defense strategies to help defend your case.
Speak to Loan PPP loan fraud lawyer, Theodore P. Watson, Esquire. Practice Group Lead (Also Licensed in the Supreme Court of the United States. At Watson & Associates, with law offices in Colorado, Los Angeles, Miami, and Washington, DC, our top-rated federal criminal attorneys have experience working for federal contracting agencies. We understand the nuts and bolts of the government’s investigation, PPP fraud indictment in criminal cases for affiliation violations on 13 CFR 121.301, and how the DOJ or even the SBA OIG develops a civil or criminal case against you.
A crucial aspect of our practice lies in the fact that many of our federal crime defense attorneys possess extensive experience as government contracting officials. We also understand how trial lawyers and federal prosecutors in federal agencies like the DOJ and the U.S. Attorney’s Office operate. Drawing on those valuable insights, our job is to deconstruct the government’s case and develop a legal defense in federal courts that can create leverage in the event of litigation.
Some potential PPP fraud defense strategies may include:
- Lack of intent: a potential defense is to argue that you did not intend to commit fraud. This may be a viable defense if you made an honest mistake or were unaware that you were providing false information on your loan application.
- Insufficient evidence: Another defense strategy is challenging the evidence presented by the prosecution. This may involve questioning the credibility of witnesses or pointing out inconsistencies in the evidence.
- Statute of limitations: If the government waits too long to bring charges, a paycheck protection fraud lawyer may be able to use the statute of limitations as a defense.
- Plea bargain: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecution. This may involve pleading guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a reduced sentence.
How Our False Claims Act PPP Loan Fraud Attorneys Can Help You
Navigating False Claims Act PPP loan fraud investigations and charges is a complex process that demands specialized legal expertise. At Watson & Associates, LLC, our PPP fraud lawyers offer a range of defense services tailored to the unique circumstances of each case:
- Immediate Analysis and Response: We conduct an in-depth review of the CID, PPP loan subpoena, or indictment to understand the scope of the investigation.
- Internal Investigation: We carry out a detailed internal investigation to gather evidence about your business relationships and SBA affiliation rules that support your case, demonstrating compliance or mitigating circumstances.
- Challenging Government Evidence: Our team scrutinizes the prosecution’s evidence for weaknesses, procedural errors, or overreach.
- Negotiation with Authorities: We engage with federal authorities to seek resolutions that avoid criminal charges, such as settlements or reduction of allegations to civil matters.
- Courtroom Defense: If necessary, our paycheck protection fraud lawyers provide aggressive representation in court, using our knowledge of SBA regulations, including 13 CFR 121.301, to fight for your exoneration.
Protecting Business Owners and Corporations Nationwide
Our PPP loan fraud lawyers have successfully represented business owners, corporations, and executives across the nation. We specialize in cases involving SBA affiliation rules, ownership of multiple businesses, and compliance with the intricate regulations of the PPP loan program. We understand the critical nuances that can make the difference between a devastating outcome and a successful defense. Whether you’re accused of fraudulently securing multiple loans, misrepresenting your business’s size, or using PPP funds improperly, our paycheck protection fraud lawyers have the experience to advocate effectively on your behalf.
Why Choose Watson & Associates, LLC as Your Criminal Defense PPP Fraud Lawyers?
At Watson & Associates, LLC, our PPP loan fraud lawyers go beyond standard defense strategies. Our PPP fraud lawyers bring deep expertise in SBA regulations and federal law, equipping us to handle complex issues like business affiliation and size certification under 13 CFR 121.301.
Our experience with both civil and criminal defense uniquely positions us to challenge the government’s case and negotiate favorable outcomes. When you choose us, you’re not just hiring a lawyer; you’re gaining a defense team that understands the high stakes and will fight relentlessly to protect your business, your reputation, and your freedom.
Are You Going Through PPP Loan Fraud Investigations? Your Defense Begins Here
Time is critical in PPP loan fraud investigations. Federal authorities are building their case, and every moment counts. Contact Watson & Associates, LLC today at 1.866.601.5518. Our seasoned False Claims Act PPP loan fraud attorneys are prepared to take immediate action to protect your rights, defend your business, and secure your future. Please don’t wait until it’s too late. Reach out to us today and take the first step toward an aggressive, strategic defense. Schedule a Confidential Free Consultation Online
CALL ONE OF OUR SBA PPP LOAN FRAUD LAWYERS FOR A FREE CONFIDENTIAL INITIAL CONSULTATION. CALL TOLL-FREE AT 1.866.601.5518.
Speak to Theodore Watson Immediately for Prompt Representation