At the Griffin Law Office, APC, our San Diego criminal defense attorney represents clients throughout California who have been investigated for, accused of, and charged with white-collar crimes.
White-collar crimes are nonviolent offenses typically committed for financial gain. They often involve complex legal and financial transactions, and defending against such charges requires a strategic and detailed approach.
While all white-collar crimes are unique, we discuss the general makeup and defense strategies associated with these cases.
What are the Most Common Types of White-Collar Crimes in California?
In California and nationwide, the types of white-collar crimes that our clients and others may be investigated for or charged with are unlimited.
However, some of the most common include:
- Fraud: Includes securities fraud, insurance fraud, mail and wire fraud, and healthcare fraud.
- Embezzlement: Theft or misappropriation of funds placed in one’s trust or belonging to one’s employer.
- Insider Trading: Trading a public company’s stock or other securities based on non-public, material information.
- Money Laundering is the process of making large amounts of money generated by criminal activity appear to have come from a legitimate source.
- Tax Evasion: Illegal practices to avoid paying taxes owed to the government.
- Bribery and Corruption: Offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value to influence the actions of an official or other person in charge of a public or legal duty.
Defending against white-collar crime charges involves navigating a complex legal landscape. We can help, starting with an initial consultation.
What are the Stages of a White-Collar Crime Case?
Understanding the stages of a case, potential defense strategies and the importance of experienced legal representation can help individuals better prepare for what to expect. If facing white-collar crime charges, seeking knowledgeable and skilled legal counsel is essential to ensure a robust defense.
Investigation
- Initial Inquiry: Federal agencies like the FBI, SEC, or IRS often conduct investigations.
- Subpoenas and Search Warrants: Investigators may issue subpoenas for documents and conduct searches of business premises.
- Interview Requests: Investigators might request interviews with the suspect and associated individuals.
- Forensic Accounting: Detailed examination of financial records by forensic accountants to uncover evidence of wrongdoing.
Charges
- Indictment: Formal charges are brought against the suspect, often following a grand jury investigation.
- Arrest: The suspect may be arrested, taken into custody, or asked to surrender voluntarily.
- Bail Hearing: A court hearing to determine if the suspect can be released on bail pending trial.
Pre-Trial
- Discovery: Both sides exchange evidence that will be presented at trial. This includes documents, witness lists, and expert reports.
- Motions: The defense and prosecution may file pre-trial motions to exclude specific evidence, dismiss charges, or change venue.
- Plea Bargaining: The defense and prosecution may discuss reaching a plea agreement, which could potentially reduce charges or sentencing.
Trial
- Jury Selection: Selection of impartial jurors to hear the case.
- Opening Statements: Both sides present their outlines of the case.
- Presentation of Evidence: The prosecution and defense present evidence, call witnesses, and cross-examine each other’s witnesses.
- Closing Arguments: Both sides summarize their cases and argue for a particular verdict.
- Jury Deliberation: The jury deliberates and reaches a verdict.
- Verdict: The jury announces the verdict. If guilty, sentencing will follow.
If found guilty, a separate hearing determines the penalty, including fines, restitution, and imprisonment. The judge considers factors like the severity of the crime, the defendant’s criminal history, and the impact on victims.
Our California criminal defense law firm tirelessly works to provide the best defense strategies available for clients accused of white-collar crimes.
What are the Most Common Defense Strategies Associated with White-Collar Crimes in California?
White-collar crime cases require attorneys with expertise in criminal defense and complex financial transactions. Our defense teams often include forensic accountants, financial analysts, and other specialists who can challenge the prosecution’s evidence or provide alternative explanations to help build our clients’ cases for success.
A comprehensive approach involving thorough investigation, evidence gathering, and strategic planning is crucial.
That includes:
- Challenging Evidence: Contesting the legality of evidence collection and its admissibility in court.
- Proving Lack of Intent: Demonstrating that the defendant did not intend to commit the crime.
- Insufficient Evidence: Arguing that the prosecution has not met its burden of proof.
If you face white-collar crime charges in California, contact our skilled San Diego criminal defense attorney today to learn more about your legal rights and how we can help build your defense to pursue the best outcome for your case by calling 619-269-2131 today.