White-Collar Criminal Defense Attorneys

What is white-collar crime?

White-collar crime is an umbrella term for a range of nonviolent criminal offenses committed for financial gain. According to the FBI, white-collar crimes “are characterized by deceit, concealment, or violation of trust." Some offenses that fall in this category include:

• Corporate fraud
• Securities fraud
• Bankruptcy fraud
• Embezzlement
• Bribery
• Money laundering
• Tax evasion
• Antitrust violations
• Counterfeiting
• Credit card fraud
• Economic espionage and theft of trade secrets
• Insider trading
• Public corruption

White-collar crimes are typically investigated by:

• The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
• The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
• The Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
• Various state agencies, depending on the jurisdiction where the crime was committed

As the name implies, white-collar crimes are usually, though by no means always, committed by people of significant professional and social status.

What does a white-collar criminal defense lawyer do?

Some criminal defense attorneys focus their practices on defending people accused of committing white-collar crimes. White-collar criminal investigations often take years to complete, and they usually begin as civil investigations before being referred for criminal prosecution. As such, potential defendants may retain an attorney to protect their rights and interests before they are even charged with a crime. A white-collar criminal defense lawyer may:

• Conduct an in-depth investigation
• Retain expert witnesses
• Seek resolution before a criminal indictment
• Form joint defense arrangements with attorneys for other defendants
• Negotiate with state and federal prosecutors to seek a dismissal or reduction in charges
• Represent clients at trial, if necessary.

In addition, white-collar lawyers may help their clients navigate the mental and emotional strain that comes with facing serious criminal charges. Many white-collar defendants come into the legal system with little idea of what to expect. An effective defense attorney has the experience and insight to relentlessly represent their clients through a time of significant hardship.

How do I find the right white-collar criminal defense attorney?

An effective attorney is focused on getting the most positive outcome possible for each client. That may not be an acquittal: federal prosecutors have the FBI to investigate crimes and often sympathetic judges hearing their cases. A “win” in a white-collar case may be a reduction in charges, conviction on only some charges, a plea agreement or even a hung jury. Experienced attorneys know how to objectively assess their clients’ legal options and provide candid advice.

The key is to look for an attorney with experience and a track record of results in white-collar cases. White-collar crime is a complex area of law, and the government usually has the upper hand throughout each case. The resources and insight of a dedicated, qualified white-collar defense attorney are the defendant’s best shot at leveling the playing field.