It’s easy to underestimate the serious nature of a white-collar crime. It may seem like these are victimless crimes, but in reality, the federal government has strict laws against various types of financial crime. If you are under investigation for a white-collar crime or you are already facing a charge, it is in your interest to act immediately to start preparing your defense strategy.
In most cases, white-collar crime involves certain actions done with the intent of some type of financial gain. This can happen through fraud, theft and various schemes. It may also include activities done with the intent of gaining access to a person’s private information, then used to access accounts, open fraudulent credit cards and more. There are many different types of crime that fall into this category, and the penalties are steep for all of them.
Types of white-collar crime
White-collar crime includes a range of offenses that involve defrauding another party for the ultimate purpose of taking money or gaining access to assets. Some of the most common types of white-collar crime include:
- Insider trading — This is the most common type of securities fraud. This happens when someone with inside information makes trades on that information, violating his or her duties.
- Insurance fraud — This happens when an individual files a false claim, overstates the value of destroyed property or intentionally destroys property in order to get money from the insurance company.
- Tax evasion — Tax evasion occurs when a person either fails to pay taxes, does not pay the full amount or illegally transfers property in order to avoid paying the appropriate amount of taxes.
These examples are only three of the many different types of white-collar crime. The case against you could involve both state and federal laws, and you will benefit from having experienced legal guidance at every step.
Building your defense
You have the right to a presumption of innocence, and you have the right to confront the case against you. An assessment of your case can help you understand the specific ways you can fight back and preserve your future interests. Facing allegations of white-collar criminal activity is overwhelming, but a guilty plea or a conviction is never your only option.
There is much at stake, and this is why you will benefit from the counsel of a tenacious Florida legal advocate dedicated to the preservation of your rights and interests. You do not have to face these criminal charges alone.