White-collar crimes are non-violent crimes committed for financial gain. They are most often committed by business professionals and individuals in positions of power. The term white-collar crime can include various crimes, including embezzlement, fraud, and insider trading. If an entity or person is accusing you of committing a white-collar crime in Los Angeles, a Los Angeles criminal lawyer can help defend you against these charges.

How Are Investigations Conducted for White-Collar Crimes?

Law enforcement agencies usually investigate white-collar crimes. These investigations may involve the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). These agencies can conduct investigations because they have access to evidence and complex resources.

Law enforcement agencies utilize different tools and methods to collect evidence. They can use forensic accounting to uncover irregularities, discrepancies, and fraudulent activities in financial records. Digital forensics allows them to examine electronic devices and recover data. They can also perform wiretaps, surveillance, and interrogations. Your lawyer can help protect your rights by verifying that they collect evidence legally. 

How Are Prosecutions Carried Out for White-Collar Crimes?

To start the prosecution process, the agency can present what it discovered during investigations to a grand jury. The grand jury will then determine whether it should indict based on the evidence. If they decide to indict, the case will go to trial. At this point, prosecutors can start building their cases and negotiating plea deals.

The penalties for being found guilty of a white-collar crime can vary based on many factors. Some of the penalties include fines, restitution, imprisonment, probation, and related professional consequences.

How Does a Criminal Lawyer Build a Defense?

The lawyers at Kroger Law Group are experienced in white-collar crimes and are skilled in crafting defense strategies for their clients. Our lawyers build your defense around your individual circumstances. Here are some common defense strategies that your lawyer may use for your defense:

Lack of Intent: Lack of intent is a strategy meant to prove that you did not have intent to commit the crime. If you and your lawyer can successfully prove this, your lawyer may be able to reduce your sentence or convince the court to dismiss your case entirely.

Acting Under Duress or Coercion: Your lawyer can use this defense if you committed the crime because of threats against yourself or your loved ones. This is a common defense in cases when the action wasn't willingly performed.

Acting in Good Faith: If you did not know that you were committing a crime, your lawyer may use this defense. Immigrants or those unfamiliar with the law may use this defense.

Need a Los Angeles Criminal Lawyer? Kroger Law Group Can Help

A conviction for a white-collar crime can lead to prison time, restitution orders, and financial penalties and fines. White-collar crime cases can be built over the span of months or even years. An experienced and knowledgeable attorney may be necessary to reduce your sentence or secure an acquittal. If you suspect you are under investigation for a white-collar crime in the state of California, reach out to Kroger Law Group. We can provide you with a Los Angeles criminal lawyer who can help you navigate these charges. Contact us for a complimentary, confidential consultation.