A white collar crime is any type of illegal activity carried out by business professionals in the course of their work or certain other non-violent business-related offenses. These crimes can involve fraud, bribery, embezzlement, money laundering, tax crimes, and more.
These crimes are typically motivated by financial gain, and they can have a significant impact on both the businesses and individuals involved. In some cases, these crimes lead to jail time for the perpetrators.
If you have been accused of a white collar crime, you must seek experienced legal representation as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can help you understand the charges against you and develop a strong defense strategy.
What Should You Do If Accused of a White Collar Crime?
If you are accused of a white collar crime, it is important to take the accusation seriously. These types of crimes can have serious consequences, including prison time and hefty fines.
The first thing you should do if you are accused of a white collar crime is to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. An attorney can help you understand the charges against you and work to build a strong defense.
If you are being investigated for a white collar crime, it is important to be cooperative with investigators and not appear combative.
However, do not answer any questions without your attorney present. Law enforcement can use anything you say against you in court. You have the right to a fair trial and an experienced criminal defense attorney will help you protect your rights.
White Collar Convictions Put You at Risk of Severe Consequences
If you are convicted of a white collar crime, the consequences can be severe.
You could face:
- Prison time
- Fines
- Damage to your professional and personal reputation
An experienced criminal defense attorney helps you understand the potential consequences of a conviction and work to get the best possible outcome for your case.
Examples of White Collar Crimes
- Embezzlement: Theft or misappropriation of funds entrusted to someone. This can happen in both the private and public sectors. For example, a company employee may embezzle company funds, or a public official may embezzle government funds.
- Money laundering: Process of hiding or disguising the source of illegally-obtained money. This includes moving the money through multiple bank accounts or businesses, or by investing in legitimate businesses.
- Securities fraud: Encompasses a wide range of activities, including insider trading (trading on information that is not publicly available), fraudulent investment schemes, and Manipulation of financial markets.
- Tax evasion: Deliberate underpayment or non-payment of taxes. It can be accomplished in several ways, including hiding income, claiming false deductions, and failing to file a tax return.
- Bribery: Act of offering or accepting something of value in exchange for influence or favor. Bribery can take many forms, from a financial inducement to a simple gift.
- Identity theft: Unauthorized use of another person’s personal information, such as their Social Security number or credit card number, for financial gain. Identity theft can have devastating consequences, both financially and emotionally.
- Counterfeiting: Unauthorized production or sale of goods or services designed to mimic the real thing. Counterfeiting can include anything from fake designer handbags to counterfeit currency.
- RICO offenses (Federal)
White collar crimes might not seem as serious as violent criminal acts. However, failing to take accusations of a white collar crime seriously can lead to jail time, fines, and other severe penalties that affect you for the rest of your life.
If you’ve been accused of a white collar crime or you suspect an investigation is underway, Tyler Brock can help. Contact Ty to discuss your situation and find out what you can do to protect your rights.
