White-collar crimes are nonviolent offenses committed for financial gain. Being accused of a white-collar crime can ruin your career and your company. Therefore, it is imperative that you retain legal counsel as soon as you suspect you are a target of a white-collar investigation. Exercising your right to an attorney is not an admission of guilt. It is the kind of risk-mitigation measure you’d apply to any other aspect of your business. Largey Law has the resources and knowledge to protect your interests during a criminal investigation. Our Mount Dora white collar crimes lawyers develop an effective strategy to challenge the evidence against you and present a strong criminal defense.
Common Examples of White-Collar Crimes
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is often involved in white-collar crime enforcement and prosecutions, especially those who are interstate or international. The FBI pursues a variety of white-collar crimes, including:
- Fraud — such as healthcare fraud, insurance fraud, securities fraud or mortgage fraud
- Embezzlement —occurs when money or property is misappropriated by a person in a position of trust, including an employee, officer, accountant or fiduciary
- RICO — prosecutors have stretched the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations laws to cover countless white-collar offenses
- Theft of intellectual property — misappropriating trade secrets or information protected by copyright or patent
- Internet crimes — using technology to commit fraud, such as unlicensed online pharmacies, Internet auction fraud and email scams
- Identify theft — a person uses someone else’s personal information to access her or his assets or credit
- Securities fraud — including Ponzi schemes and illegal market manipulation
- Disaster relief and charity scams — in which a faux organization is established, often using a website or social media account, to solicit donations for worthy causes with the intention of stealing the money
- Bribery — both paying and accepting a bribe are illegal
A seasoned attorney in Mount Dora has experience with these examples and could determine the best defense strategy for each form of white-collar crime.
Steps You Should Take if You Are the Target of a White-Collar Crimes Investigation
Do not make any statements or hand over any documents to law enforcement unless your lawyer is present. A seemingly innocent text message, supposedly irrelevant document or offhand comment can be twisted and used against you. Our attorneys demand warrants and protect your right against self-incrimination. In some cases, we can stop the criminal investigation before it results in an arrest.
Speak With a Mount Dora White Collar Crimes Attorney about Your Legal Rights
To protect your rights during a white-collar crime investigation and prosecution, do not hesitate to schedule your consultation with a team member. Your initial meeting is free, and we are available in the evenings and on weekends. A Mount Dora white collar crimes lawyer could help at any moment.