Ponzi Schemes

Ponzi Schemes in Los Angeles

What Is a Ponzi Scheme?

Ponzi schemes have gained much attention following the well-publicized trial and conviction of Bernie Madoff, yet many are unaware of what a Ponzi scheme entails. Named after Charles Ponzi, this white collar crime, similar to securities fraud, is a fraudulent investment scheme that lures investors into paying money to an operation that falsely promises large returns of profit. The returns are paid to early investors using their own money or the money contributed by later investors who joined the scheme after them. There is often no or limited legitimate profit earned by any products, services or those in charge of the operation.

Although Ponzi schemes are one of the older schemes used by white collar offenders, they remain a common form of fraud. Promising high returns to investors and using their money to pay previous investors is one of the oldest tricks in the book and has the potential to victimize many people. In many cases the proposed investment program does not exist at all. Due to the amount of scammed investors and flagrant disregard on behalf of the Ponzi scheme creators, the US government frequently publishes literature to educate the public on defending themselves against such scams.

Fighting Multiple Charges of Ponzi Schemes

Wire fraud, money laundering, tax fraud and other forms of white collar crimes are also commonly involved with Ponzi schemes and federal courts can charge you with several crimes simultaneously, rather than filing a single Ponzi scheme charge. Because Ponzi schemes can involve several crimes, prosecutors may also charge defendants with racketeering activity under the RICO act, therefore adding enhanced punishments.

If you are being charged with running or willfully organizing a Ponzi scheme, you may face various and separate charges that, when combined, can greatly increase fines and prison sentences. Retaining legal counsel is necessary. No matter the size of the alleged scheme, you need the federal criminal defense our firm can provide.

Contact us online or call us at (800) 462-7160 to discuss your case.

  • I have nothing but praise.

    “I have nothing but praise for the quality of service provided to my family, it was professional and top notch. I am a satisfied customer and highly recommended this law firm.”

  • We are very pleased and impressed!

    “We are blessed to have you for our lawyer and will highly recommend you with your professional and educated advice!”

  • DEFINITELY the best lawyer

    “You can''t understand how happy this makes us, mom even started to cry! Thank you so much for all your help! this is super fantastic news and I'll feel a lot safer flying in tomorrow. Again thank you, ...”

  • I will recommend you and your firm to anyone

    “I shall never forget you. You can take for granted that I will recommend you and your firm to anyone who needs counsel.”

  • No Jail Time

    “Getting my DUI was a very scary thing for me. Not knowing what I was up against, I turned to the law firm, which came highly recommended through a friend. I was amazed to learn that I didn't have to ...”

Why Choose Us

Respected & Recognized in the Legal Community
  • 1,000's of Cases Handled In & Out of Court
  • 50+ Years of Combined Legal Experience
  • No Recovery, No Fees for All Injury Cases
  • Strong & Attentive Counsel Available 24/7

Make Your Future
Our Business

Get 24/7 Legal Advice & Counsel
  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
Your Fight Is Our Fight

When going through serious legal matters, do not put your case in the hands of just any attorney. Rather, work with a team who has earned a respected reputation for outstanding legal service and one with a proven track record of success.