Many are under the impression that the term “white-collar crime” indicates minor criminal charges and penalties. However, this could not be further from the truth. A conviction for a white-collar crime could result in harsh penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and hefty fines, not to mention damage to your reputation and future as a member of your community.

When charged with a white-collar crime, you must develop a well-strategized defense. Working with an experienced Columbia white-collar defense lawyer with a deep knowledge of the legal system is crucial. An aggressive criminal attorney could fight for your legal rights through every step of your case, never backing down in pursuit of the most favorable resolution to your charges.

What Are Common White-Collar Charges?

There are many types of white-collar criminal charges, each of which stems from alleged financial wrongdoing. A key difference between white-collar crimes and other criminal offenses is that they do not entail violent acts. For example, tax evasion, insider trading, insurance fraud, and money laundering are all white-collar crimes. Other common white-collar crimes include the following:

  • Embezzlement
  • Investment fraud
  • Counterfeiting
  • Healthcare fraud
  • Identity theft
  • Securities fraud

It is unwise to attempt to defend these charges without professional legal assistance. While some of these alleged offenses may be charged at the state level, most white-collar crimes are prosecuted at the federal level, which imposes far more stringent sentencing guidelines and penalties. Therefore, the accused person could easily be up against the force of the federal government. An alleged offender who attempts to defend a white-collar crime charge without a knowledgeable attorney’s experience could jeopardize their freedom and their legal rights.

Potential Penalties and Defense Strategies to White-Collar Crimes

Penalties for white collar crimes are wide-ranging and depend greatly on the nature of the charge, the events that led to the alleged offense, the existence of intent to perpetrate the alleged offense, and the financial value involved. In addition to potentially lengthy prison terms and high fines ranging from tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars, a person convicted of a white-collar crime may also be required to pay restitution, perform community service, or serve a period of house arrest.

While law enforcement charges most white-collar crimes as misdemeanors, they charge some as felonies, which carry much graver sentences. The impact of a felony conviction can extend beyond prison sentences and fines, making it difficult to do everything from obtaining employment or housing to voting.

A hardworking lawyer in Columbia could collect evidence to defend white-collar crime allegations and fight to protect the rights of alleged offenders. A few plausible defenses to a white-collar crime could include lack of intent to commit the offense, a simple financial error, or even entrapment by the police.

Speak with a Diligent White-Collar Defense Attorney in Columbia Right Away

When you face allegations or charges for a white-collar crime, your next call should be to a legal representative who could help you determine the best strategy for handling your case.

A Columbia white-collar defense lawyer could present the most effective action plan and fight vigorously on your behalf at every stage of the legal proceedings. Do not delay building your defense. Call now to arrange a confidential consultation with a skilled legal team member.