Some broker fraud lawyers specialize in mortgage fraud and real estate fraud cases. Because many states are aggressively prosecuting mortgage fraud, the number of mortgage fraud defense attorneys across the country has grown. Although most people think of the mortgage broker when they hear the term "mortgage fraud", the bank, real estate broker, appraiser, closing agent, real estate developer, buyer, and seller may face criminal prosecution for mortgage fraud. Many broker fraud lawyers specialize in representing the victims of mortgage fraud in civil cases. Whether to pursue civil litigation against a mortgage fraudster depends largely on whether he has assets with which to satisfy a judgment. Moreover, because many mortgage fraud convictions result in hefty fines, collecting on a civil judgment may be all but impossible for many years after the verdict.