MN Wire and Mail Fraud Attorney

Minneapolis, MN criminal defense federal lawyer Andrew Birrell explains what wire/mail fraud is and then details his experience in handling those cases. He recalls trying his first mail fraud case in federal court in 1984, alongside co-counsel Ron Mashbescher, from whom he learned a great deal. He explains that mail and wire fraud statutes are designed to address fraudulent schemes conducted through the use of the mail, email, fax, or other electronic communications. The “mail” or “wire” element primarily serves as a jurisdictional basis, allowing the federal government to prosecute the case.

Substantively, he notes, these cases involve standard fraud schemes—misrepresentations or deceptive conduct intended to secure money, property, or other benefits—where the use of mail or electronic communication provides the federal government its authority to intervene. While the jurisdictional mechanism is specific, the underlying conduct reflects common fraudulent practices.