White Collar Crimes
Crimes that do not involve physical violence, and that relate largely to financial matters, are often called “white collar crimes.” White collar crimes involve most of the same legal principles as do other crimes, and people charged with white collar crimes have the same rights and protections as defendants accused of other crimes. On the other hand, white collar offenses are often very complex, and involve numerous complicated legal and factual issues. The possible penalties include fines, prison sentences, and criminal forfeiture. If you have been charged with a white collar crime, it is essential that you seek legal counsel from an experienced criminal defense attorney at once so that you can preserve your rights and protect your future.
Fraud
Fraud is a very serious, and very broadly defined, criminal offense. Criminal fraud is a charge that can be brought against a business, as well as against an individual (a business cannot be put in prison, but can be hit with substantial fines). A charge of fraud – let alone a conviction – can wreak havoc with the reputation of a person or company charged. Zealous legal representation is critical in fraud cases, as in all criminal cases. It is critical for an accused to seek help from an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Other White Collar Crimes
Other white collar crimes that may be charged by Prosecutors, in addition to Fraud, include money laundering, pyramid schemes, counterfeiting, embezzlement, tax evasion, extortion, forgery, bribery, and securities fraud.
Penalties for White Collar Crime
The most frightening part of being a defendant in a white collar criminal case – or any criminal case – is the potential penalty involved. Most white collar defendants have no prior experience with the criminal justice system, and the question of what could happen looms understandably large in their minds. An experienced criminal defense attorney can give specific advice on the possible penalties in a particular case. A prosecution for a white collar crime can lead to more than criminal penalties. Many white collar offenses may give rise to civil lawsuits, brought either by the federal or state government, or by the victims of the offense. Any civil liability imposed as a result of these suits is in addition to, and not a substitute for, the penalties imposed in the criminal case. An experienced white collar crime attorney can give specific advice on the possible civil liability in a particular case.
The Law Offices of Evan E. Zelig, P.C. is located in downtown Santa Rosa, California, conveniently located minutes from the Sonoma County Courthouse and Jail facilities. We are also accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! If you have been charged with fraud or any other “white collar crime” call the Law Offices of Evan E. Zelig, P.C. at (707) 636-3204 or toll free at (888) ZELIGLAW
