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White Collar Crime Defense in Los Angeles: Common Charges and Legal Defenses

White Collar Crime Defense in Los Angeles: Common Charges and Legal Defenses

The presence of major corporations and industry movers and shakers in Los Angeles means that white collar criminal cases is a common sight in the area’s courtrooms. If you or someone close to you has been charged with a white collar crime, it’s important to understand what you’re up against and the potential defenses your Southern California attorney may use.

The white collar criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Robin D. Perry & Associates have extensive experience in the world of white collar crime. Learn more about our team and discuss your next steps by calling us at 562-216-2944.

Overview of White Collar Crime

White collar crime involves non-violent and financially driven offenses that are typically committed by individuals in business or government roles. These crimes rely on deceit and breach of trust, rather than physical force. Common examples include fraud, where false information is used to gain money, and embezzlement, which involves misusing funds.

In Los Angeles, the economic diversity and prominence of industries like finance, technology, and entertainment create the ideal environment for these crimes. These cases demand a thorough criminal defense strategy from a white collar criminal defense law firm.

Frequent White Collar Crime Allegations

White collar crime allegations often involve complex financial activities that require an extensive knowledge of a company’s inner workings, which is why perpetrators are so often executives and others high on the corporate ladder.

Among the most common are fraud and embezzlement. Fraud can take many forms, such as wire fraud, where communication devices are used to deceive for financial gain, and mail fraud, which uses the postal service for similar schemes. These offenses can impact both individuals and businesses, causing significant financial harm.

Embezzlement, on the other hand, occurs when someone entrusted with funds or property misuses them for personal benefit.

Other commonly known forms of white collar crimes include money laundering, Ponzi schemes, and extortion. Those accused or under investigation benefit from the assistance of a white collar criminal defense attorney.

Defending Against White Collar Crime Accusations

Defending against white collar crime accusations requires understanding and planning, hence the need for an experienced white collar criminal defense lawyer. One key defense is proving the lack of intent. This means showing that the accused did not knowingly break the law. For instance, they might have been unaware that their actions were illegal or believed they were following legal guidelines. Another strong defense strategy is challenging the evidence. This could involve questioning the reliability or accuracy of financial documents, emails, or other records used by the prosecution.

Additionally, proving entrapment can be a defense if it is shown that law enforcement officials induced someone to commit a crime they otherwise would not have committed.

Knowing When to Consult a White Collar Criminal Defense Lawyer

This is perhaps the easiest part of this entire process—when you’re facing white collar criminal charges, you always need an attorney. These types of crimes come with heavy penalties, often including hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines and years in federal prison. Many forms of white collar crime are handled by federal agencies, which means that there’s already substantial evidence against you by the time you are charged. This is not a legal issue you want to handle on your own—you should reach out to a white collar criminal defense law firm the moment you are aware of charges or an investigation against you.

Understanding the Legal Factors Involved

Much depends on whether you are facing state or federal charges. While many forms of white collar crime are considered federal crimes, there are cases that are handled at the state level. There are many factors that come into play here. For example, crimes that have victims in multiple states, that utilize the U.S. Postal Service, or that involve bank or wire fraud are generally federal crimes. Once criminal activity crosses state lines, it becomes the responsibility of the federal government to handle.

The government generally puts a substantial amount of effort, time, and resources toward the investigation of white collar crimes. By the time an alleged perpetrator is arrested or finds out they are under investigation, the government has already had them in their sights for months or even years.

Protect Yourself and Your Rights With the Law Offices of Robin D. Perry & Associates

The sooner you begin working with a criminal defense lawyer, the more time they have to investigate the charges against you and begin working on your defense. We’re here to help—protect your civil rights and your future. Call us at 562-216-2944 or fill out our online contact form now.

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