With the proliferation of the Internet have come new avenues for fraud. We have all seen "spam" emails offering quick riches in exchange for some simple information. The Florida legislature has responded in kind, consolidating many prior fraud statutes and updating them for the technology age.

The new statute, the Florida Communications Fraud Act, makes any scheme to defraud another individual through the mail, email, Internet, facsimile, telephone, etc. a crime. Whether money or property exchanged hands is not an essential element of the crime. Rather, the exchange of money is an aggravating factor which may result in a heightened sentence.

The punishment structure is as follows. If property exchanged hands (all monetary figures are aggregate):

• In excess of $50,000: 1st degree felony
• In excess of $20,000 but less than $50,000: 2nd Degree Felony
• Less than $20,000: 3rd degree felony

If property did not exchange hands:

• More than $300: 3rd degree misdemeanor
• Less than $300: 1st degree misdemeanor

If you're not sure how this applies to your case, you can speak to Miami wire fraud criminal defense lawyer David S. Seltzer at a free consultation, 24 hours a day and seven days a week.

The state has significant leverage when prosecuting a fraud case, since prosecutors may charge each communication separately. If you're facing a wire fraud charge in Florida, you should get help from a good Fort Lauderdale Florida Communications Fraud Act criminal defense attorney.

David S. Seltzer is an experienced South Florida wire fraud criminal defense lawyer. Don't delay; let an experienced former prosecutor help protect your good name and reputation. Potential clients and their loved ones can call 24 hours a day and seven days a week for a free, confidential consultation. Call today or contact me online for a FREE, CONFIDENTIAL CONSULTATION.

For additional information, see Florida Statue 817.034: Florida Communications Fraud Act.