Mortgage fraud is the act of providing false or misleading information on a mortgage application in order to obtain a loan or a larger loan than would be possible with truthful information. This can include lying about income, assets, or debts, or providing false information about the property being purchased. It can be committed by individuals or businesses.

‍

Mortgage fraud can be committed by borrowers, real estate agents, appraisers, and mortgage lenders. They may provide false or misleading information on a mortgage application in order to obtain a loan or a larger loan than they would be able to with truthful information.

‍

If you are accused of mortgage fraud, it is important to seek the advice and representation of an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Your lawyer will work with you to develop a defense strategy that is tailored to your specific case.

There are a number of different defense strategies that a lawyer may use to defend you if you are accused of mortgage fraud. Some possible defenses include:

1. Lack of intent: In order to be convicted of mortgage fraud, the prosecution must be able to prove that you intended to commit the crime. If you made an honest mistake or did not realize that you were providing false information, your lawyer may be able to argue that you did not have the necessary intent to commit fraud.
2. Lack of knowledge: If you were unaware that the information you provided on your mortgage application was false or misleading, your lawyer may be able to argue that you did not have the necessary knowledge to commit fraud.
3. Duress: If you were pressured or threatened by someone else to provide false information on your mortgage application, your lawyer may be able to argue that you were acting under duress and therefore were not responsible for the fraud.
4. Entrapment: If you were induced by law enforcement to commit mortgage fraud, your lawyer may be able to argue that you were entrapped and therefore not responsible for the crime.

Your lawyer will also work to gather evidence and testimony in your defense, and will negotiate with the prosecution to try to reach a plea bargain or have the charges against you reduced or dropped. It is important to have a strong defense team on your side if you are accused of mortgage fraud, as the consequences of a conviction can be severe.

‍