Frequently Asked Questions About White-Collar Crime Defense:

• What crimes are white-collar crimes?

  White-collar crimes refer to non-violent offenses, typically committed in a business or professional setting, that generally result in financial gain or business advantages. Many forms of fraud are considered white-collar crimes, as are bribery, embezzlement, money laundering, and tax evasion.

• What is the punishment for white-collar crime?

  The penalties you could be facing when accused of a white-collar crime depend on the specific offense, grade, and other factors, such as the value of the unlawful gains.

  The least serious misdemeanor white-collar offenses in California can still land you in prison for up to a year, and certain other misdemeanor offenses could result in longer terms. More severe felony charges could expose you to a minimum sentence of one year and the potential for much longer sentences. Three-, four-, and even five-year sentences could be imposed depending on the offense. If your situation happens to trigger aggravated penalties, you could be subject to additional jail time of two to five years.

  If you’re charged with a white-collar offense at the federal level, you could be facing much harsher sentences. Convictions of fraud offenses, in particular, could send you to prison for decades.

  In addition to incarceration, you could face financial penalties like fines and the obligation to pay restitution. Under California law, you could be subject to up to $10,000 in fines. Federal fines can amount to hundreds of thousands of dollars or, for specific types of fraud, up to $1 million.

• How does a conviction for a white-collar crime affect your future?

  If you get convicted of a white-collar crime, you could go to jail for a surprisingly long amount of time. The fines and obligation to pay restitution may amount to far more money than you could reasonably pay, especially after serving a prison sentence.

  Even if you weren’t facing jail time, you’re almost certain to lose your job after a white-collar crime conviction. This mark on your permanent criminal record makes finding employment after a conviction for a white-collar offense incredibly difficult. The combination of financial penalties and the devastating impact on your professional life makes it tough to ever regain financial stability, even after you’ve served your sentence.

• How do you defend against charges of white-collar crime?

  Your one chance to minimize the impact of this legal issue on your life is by hiring experienced criminal defense attorneys to put forth strong arguments in your favor. The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney consider all avenues of defense as we develop a strategy custom-tailored to your situation. Potential defenses against white-collar crime charges include:

  • False allegations, such as accusations made when no fraud ever took place
  • Mistaken identity of the perpetrator
  • Lack of intent to deceive or defraud
  • Genuine mistakes rather than intentional fraud
  • Lack of awareness that the information provided was false
  • Good faith belief in the false information or the right or permission to use or take the assets in question
  • Offense committed under coercion or duress
  • Entrapment by law enforcement
  • Improper procedures resulting in obtaining evidence illegally
  • Insufficient evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, which is required for a conviction in California

  To determine the best path forward, the Law Offices of Christopher Chaney will undertake an in-depth investigation into the facts of your case and the circumstances of your arrest.

• What is the role of your defense attorney in a white-collar crime case?

  Your criminal defense attorney is your guide to the legal process and the strongest advocate for your legal rights. Our work on your behalf will include:

  • Representing you and your interests in all proceedings
  • Conducting an investigation to identify weaknesses in the case against you and evidence that supports your defense
  • Building you an individualized legal strategy based on the evidence available and the most effective arguments possible
  • Seeking the most favorable possible resolution to your case, which may include getting charges dropped, negotiating a plea deal, or presenting a strong defense at trial

  The outcome of your case depends on your attorney’s legal knowledge, skill, and commitment to securing you results. The right lawyer can help you achieve the most beneficial resolution possible for your circumstances.

• When should you contact a lawyer for white-collar crime defense?

  You don’t have to wait until you are formally charged with a crime to retain a skilled criminal defense lawyer. As soon as you learn you’re under investigation for a white-collar offense, you need trusted legal guidance and consistent advocacy. The sooner you get in touch with the Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, the more we can do to intervene in your case and begin developing your defense.