If you have been charged with a financially motivated crime, it is best to immediately obtain the services of a seasoned Santa Ana white-collar crime lawyer. When defending these charges, time is of the essence. An immediate, thorough investigation into the alleged incident is essential. At the Law Offices of Scott D. Henry, we understand the seriousness of fraud-related offenses. We have built a team of financial and investigative experts who could properly investigate and compile evidence supporting your defense. Additionally, we could negotiate skillfully on your behalf to have the charges dropped or reduced, minimizing any harsh penalties.
Types of White-Collar Crimes
White-collar crimes are typically synonymous with a full range of fraud offenses. In many cases, the perpetrator is a government official or businessman or woman who wrongfully takes another individual or entity’s money or property for personal gain.
Common white-collar crimes include pyramid schemes, extortion, money laundering, identity theft, tax fraud, and healthcare fraud. Because of the considerable financial loss to their victims, these crimes are prosecuted aggressively at the Central Justice Center and carry strict penalties. One of our skilled attorneys in Santa Ana could help you prepare for the legal process when facing charges for a white-collar crime.
Pyramid Schemes
Pyramid schemes are unsustainable business models in which an individual or group of individuals recruit investors by guaranteeing a high rate of return. The financial gains are not paid for by a legitimate investment but by the money invested by newer recruits. In other words, original investors make money off of the newer investors’ contributions. Pyramid schemes are a form of fraud known as embezzlement. If the financial loss to the victim is under $950, it is charged as a misdemeanor, carrying a sentence of up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. If the financial loss exceeds $950, the offense is charged as a felony with penalties of either 16 months, two years, or three years in jail and a maximum fine of $10,000.
Defenses for White-Collar Crimes
White-collar crimes are serious in nature, and any charge needs to be fought aggressively by an experienced defense attorney in Santa Ana. Several solid arguments can be used and include:
- Entrapment
- Insufficient evidence
- Untrustworthy evidence
- Lack of intent
- Mistaken Identity
- False accusation
- Mental incapacitation
An appropriate legal strategy would depend on the circumstances and could be determined by our skilled attorneys after performing a thorough investigation and case analysis.
Consult with a Santa Ana White-Collar Crime Attorney
Every minute counts when faced with serious criminal charges. If you are being investigated for or have been charged with a fraud offense, it is crucial to immediately seek legal representation from a Santa Ana white-collar crime lawyer.
Our criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Scott D. Henry know precisely how to defend those charged with fraud-related crimes. We have a proven track record of success due to our proactive, aggressive legal strategies. Contact our office today for a free, confidential case analysis with one of our knowledgeable attorneys today. We are committed to fighting tirelessly to defend you against these charges and get you a positive outcome.