Millions of unsuspecting individuals are affected by pyramid schemes each year in the U.S. and billions of dollars are lost as a result of pyramid schemes annually. A pyramid scheme is an investment scheme in which a participant makes money by recruiting members who, in turn, make money by enticing others to join. The different types of pyramid schemes include: affinity group schemes, gifting schemes, investment schemes, multi-level marketing schemes, network marketing schemes, and chain letter schemes.

Recruiting people to participate in a pyramid scheme is a felony crime in the United States , punishable by up to four years in prison, up to a $5,000 fine or both. Every person who recruits another participant into the pyramid scheme can be sued for twice the amount the recruit paid. If a marketing system is found to be a pyramid, the court can order the defendant to pay civil penalties and consumer restitution.

If you have been accused of being involved in a pyramid scheme, whether you are guilty or not, you should hire a criminal lawyer or attorney to help you with your case. If you are suing a pyramid schemer (convicted or not) for damages resulting from the crime, you will need to hire a civil lawyer or attorney. Criminal lawyers and attorneys represent individuals who have been charged with crimes by arguing their cases in courts of law. A criminal lawyer or attorney will typically have a private practice concentrating on criminal law.

If you have been arrested for being involved in a pyramid scheme, you should request an attorney or contact a private criminal lawyer or attorney immediately. There are many things to look for when hiring a criminal lawyer or attorney. A good criminal attorney will be familiar with important pyramid scheme laws of the state in which the crime took place, because many criminal law rules are hidden away in court interpretations of federal and state constitutions. Criminal lawyers and attorneys will also be familiar with local court customs and procedures, and they will have a clear understanding of the "hidden costs" of pleading guilty.

If you are ready to contact a criminal lawyer or attorney to help you with your case, visit the American Bar Association. The American Bar Association offers free access to their lawyer locator, a search function that can help you search for a suitable criminal lawyer or attorney in your area.

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