White-Collar Crime Attorneys, Los Angeles
White-collar crimes are usually non-violent crimes. However, they are treated seriously by law enforcement agencies and can have devastating consequences for anyone convicted.
A white-collar crime charge can put your reputation at stake. You may find it extremely difficult to find employment if you have a white-collar conviction on your record. This is especially true if you work for the government.
If you have been accused of committing a white-collar crime, consider hiring an experienced lawyer in Los Angeles. If you suspect you may be charged with such a criminal offense, it may be prudent to speak to a lawyer.
This article covers the fundamentals of white-collar crime:
- What constitutes a white-collar crime
- The types of white-collar crimes
- Defenses available against white-collar crimes
- How a white-collar crime attorney can help you
Given the complexity of these crimes, you may still have some unanswered questions. Don’t hesitate to contact the Law Offices of Christopher Chaney to seek answers. We would be happy to assist you and consider the facts of your case.
What Is a White-Collar Crime?
White-collar crimes are generally non-violent crimes typically committed in a business setting for personal gain.
Most of these crimes involve the misappropriation of money. They may be committed by business managers or owners. Institutions are particularly vulnerable to white-collar crimes, especially governmental ones.
The most obvious example of a white-collar crime is where an employee, such as an accountant, has authority over the financial side of a business. They then abuse that authority to misappropriate company funds for their personal use.
Both state and federal governments prosecute white-collar criminal cases. These agencies often work together whenever a white-collar crime is suspected.
Being accused of a white-collar crime can be devastating and have far-reaching consequences for the accused. You are faced with accusations of dishonesty, which may damage your reputation even if you are not found guilty.
White-collar crime attorneys from the Law Offices of Christopher Chaney have empathy for you and understand what you are going through. It is at a time like this that a steady hand is required, a confident advocate who can defend you and protect your rights.
How Do White-Collar Crimes Compare to Other Crimes?
White-collar crimes are generally more complex than violent crimes. They often involve complex audits and going through tons of paper trails in the search for evidence.
At the Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we have the necessary skills to navigate the tricky waters of complex white-collar crimes and can help you every step of the way.
Types of White-Collar Crimes
Here is a list of some common white-collar crimes:
- Bank Fraud
- Bribery
- Computer crimes
- Credit card fraud
- Embezzlement
- Extortion
- Fake ID
- False financial statement
- False or misleading billing
- Fraud
- Health care fraud
- Insurance fraud
- Mail fraud
- Money laundering
- Ponzi schemes
- Tax evasion
- Wire Fraud
Who Prosecutes White-Collar Crimes in California?
California has an aggressive stance against white-collar crimes. This means you can expect to face state charges as well as charges at the federal level. Federal charges in the federal court are highly likely. Since these crimes are often complex and expensive, state officials tend to involve agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Where there is money laundering, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the United States Department of the Treasury become involved, in which case you may face the wrath of multiple government agencies.
It is worth noting that the FBI, IRS, and other federal authorities are not involved in all white-collar crime investigations. Only the most complex crimes involving multiple state jurisdictions or large sums of money may involve two or more federal government agencies.
Defenses You Can Raise in White-Collar Cases
White-collar defense strategies are determined by the facts of each case. Strategies could include the following:
- The accused had no intention to commit the crime and made a genuine mistake.
- The accused was unaware that they provided false information.
- The victim suffered no injury or financial loss due to the fraud.
- The crime was committed by someone else.
- There is insufficient evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Evidence against the defendant was illegally obtained.
Possible Penalties for White-Collar Crimes
If found guilty, you may face the following financial penalties:
- Fines: The criminal statutes determine the maximum amount of fine applicable.
- Restitution: Payment of money to place the victim in the same financial position they were in before the crime was committed. Restitution is often mandatory.
- Forfeiture: The convicted person is ordered to give back all proceeds from the crime. This is intended to prevent self-enrichment of the criminal.
- Supervised release
- Imprisonment
How a White-Collar Crime Lawyer Can Help
A white-collar crime lawyer represents individuals or businesses involved in non-violent offenses committed for financial gain. They can assist in various ways:
- Providing legal advice and guidance tailored to your situation.
- Evaluating your case to identify its strengths and weaknesses.
- Developing a defense strategy based on a thorough analysis of the evidence.
- Negotiating with the prosecution for a favorable plea deal.
- Representing you in court, presenting your defense, and cross-examining witnesses.
- Conducting investigations and gathering evidence to support your defense.
- Safeguarding your constitutional rights throughout the legal process.
- Advocating for a favorable sentencing outcome in case of conviction.
In summary, a white-collar crime lawyer can offer valuable legal assistance and protect your rights while navigating the complexities of white-collar crime cases.
How the Law Offices of Christopher Chaney Can Help You
We understand how damning a white-collar crime conviction can be. The mere charge is enough to affect your reputation seriously. A conviction can be devastating. If you have been charged with any of these crimes, it may be a good idea to contact Los Angeles white-collar crime lawyers as soon as you can.
The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney have years of experience defending white-collar crimes. We have a team of skilled criminal defense attorneys ready to take on your case and fight for you. We believe that everyone has a right to an excellent defense team.
In our lawyers, you will find a sympathetic ear and a commitment to stand by you and with you in an effort to make sure that justice is done. We offer personalized service to all of our clients. Our experienced and empathic professionals will apply a fresh and optimistic approach to your case.
We provide a full range of criminal law services. We can provide you with a marijuana defense attorney or even an experienced homicide attorney if needed. Book your free consultation today!
