Financial crimes are crimes that do not involve violence and are usually committed by people of respectability and high social status, i.e. those with a “white-collar.” While these are not viewed by most to be as serious charges as weapons charges or violent crimes, they are in general categorized as felonies under California law and punishable by prison time in most scenarios. These cases are usually very complex and involve lengthy investigation by law enforcement. Severity of the penalty depends on the circumstances of the case, the alleged “loss” amount, the role of the defendant, the number of victims involved and whether charges are brought in Federal or State court. As such, a building a proper defense to a financial or white-collar crime charge requires an attorney with experience and knowledge of specific statutes and legal defenses that could apply.
List of White Collar / Financial Crimes we have handled:
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- Mail Fraud
- Healthcare Fraud
- Insurance Fraud
- Petty Theft
- Grand Theft
- Receiving Stolen Property
- Extortion
- Identity Theft
- Money Laundering
- Forgery
- Bribery
- Embezzlement
- Credit Card Fraud
- Commercial Burglary
- Federal Financial Crimes
Common Defenses & Tactics
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- Lack of Fraudulent Intent – Most white collar crimes require proof of specific intent. Intent is very difficult for the prosecution to prove beyond a reasonable doubt. Further, your actions could have been accidental or misinterpreted by the alleged “victim.”
- Mistaken Identity – Charges can be brought sometimes when you have been falsely accused, framed or wrongly arrested. People can make mistakes or act out of anger or jealousy.
- Insufficient Evidence – Sometimes a case can be built off limited evidence, circumstantial evidence or he-said she-said allegations. Proper investigation, evidence gathering and interviewing witnesses can help fight these cases.
- Entrapment– Law enforcement (most of the time undercover) may at times go beyond their limits and lure someone into committing a crime that they would not have committed without pressure, harassment or threats.
- Illegal Search or Seizure – Evidence could have been obtained as a result of an illegal search or seizure. Getting evidence thrown out may get charges significantly reduced or even dismissed.
- Miranda Violation – Evidence could have been obtained as a result of a Miranda violation. Getting such evidence thrown out may also get charges significantly reduced or even dismissed.
To Have The Best Chance…
If you are arrested for a white collar crime exercise your right to remain silent and contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. Do not give a statement or talk to law enforcement. You can face serious consequences including time in prison, heavy fines, and a conviction on your record for the rest of your life.
Here at the Igarian Law Firm, we have the experience and knowledge to help put up the best defense possible based on the facts and circumstances of your specific case. Nobody knows your case better than you! We want to hear your side of the story and may be able to get your charges reduced or event totally dismissed. We work with you to get you the most favorable result. Call us now for a free consultation.