White Collar Crimes Involving Money And Property
When people think of white collar crime, they often think of high-profile criminals who have been involved in major crimes. However, white collar crime can cover a wide range of offenses, most of which deal with money and property. Abusing federal programs for health care, tax collection, and oil and gas regulations are common white collar crimes. Disputes between businessmen often include charges and counter charges of fraud are also common white collar crimes.
What white collar cases have in common is that they all include the accusation that there has been some type of deceit or breach of trust, and that money or property changed hands illegally as a result. White collar crimes almost always are nonviolent. However, the penalties and punishment can be severe, and accusations should be taken seriously.
Representing Corporations Accused Of Criminal Acts
When a corporation hires a criminal defense lawyer, that lawyer owes a duty to both the shareholders and the corporation as a whole. Corporations that are indicted for crimes face the “corporate death penalty” of withdrawn investment and cancellation of contracts and licenses to do business. Our attorneys sometimes must fight for a company’s very survival.
If you are accused or believe you may be implicated in a corporate criminal matter as an individual, it is important for you to have your own attorney; the corporation’s attorney does not owe a duty to you, only to the corporation and its shareholders.
White Collar Crimes We Litigate
Our attorneys have extensive experience defending clients accused of Texas and federal white collar crimes, including the following:
- Conspiracy
- Money laundering
- Theft and embezzlement
- Securities fraud
- Anti-theft violations
- Environmental disputes
- Extortion
- Bribery
- Public corruption
- Tax evasion and tax protests
- Bulk cash smuggling
- Defense department fraud
- Foreign corrupt practice
- Health care fraud
- Mail fraud
- R.I.C.O. and organized crime
- Texas parks and wildlife
- Aircraft parts fraud
- Immigration offenses
- Insurance fraud
The “procedural steps” for federal and state cases are complicated and may take months – or even years. Our practice is built on long-term relationships and we have the commitment and the skills to bring your case to a successful resolution.
Frequently Asked Questions About White Collar Crimes
Anyone who is facing a white collar criminal investigation or charges would be wise to learn as much as possible. Here are the answers to some common concerns:
What are my rights if I’m under investigation for a white collar crime?
Under the Fourth Amendment, you have the right against unreasonable search and seizures. In other words, the police may require a warrant before they can search and seize evidence. Alternatively, the police may be given permission before performing a search or perform a search after making a lawful arrest.
You have the right to remain silent under the Fifth Amendment if you are asked any questions by law enforcement or investigators. Any statements you make to law enforcement or investigators could be used against you in court to charge you with a white collar crime.
Under the Sixth Amendment, you have the right to legal counsel – and you should avail yourself of that right immediately. Our attorneys at Mallett Saper LLP can represent you during an investigation. We can speak on your behalf to law enforcement or investigators. We can also inform you of your legal rights and build a defense against white collar crimes.
What are the potential outcomes of my case, and how will you help me achieve the best possible results?
If you are convicted of a white collar crime, you could potentially face fines, imprisonment and probation. However, our experienced white collar crime defense attorneys at Mallett Saper LLP can protect your rights.
We can help you understand the nature of the charges against you, educate you on your constitutional rights and build a strong defense against white collar crime charges. With a strong legal defense, charges against you can potentially be dismissed or reduced. If a conviction is unavoidable, we can advocate for lesser charges or a reduced sentence to mitigate the consequences.
Can white collar crime charges be reduced through plea agreements?
Yes. A plea agreement allows you to take a potentially reduced charge or lighter sentence in exchange for pleading guilty. However, the benefits of accepting a plea agreement often depend on the complexity of a case and the evidence against you.
If the charges against you are weak, accepting a plea agreement may not be in your favor. A strong legal defense could potentially dismiss white collar crime charges. Before accepting a plea deal, you should speak to an attorney. Our attorneys can determine whether a plea agreement is advisable.
Contact The White Collar Crime Attorneys At Mallett Saper LLP
If you or your company has been charged with a white collar crime, contact the Houston attorneys at Mallett Saper LLP. Call 713-423-6769 or fill out our online contact form.