Clearwater White Collar Crimes Attorneys

Delivering Comprehensive Criminal Defense When You Need It Most

The term “white collar crime” can describe many different types of crimes, but generally, all crimes that fall under this category are committed through deceit and motivated by the prospect of financial gain. If you’ve been accused of a white collar crime in South Florida, consult with the experienced Clearwater criminal defense lawyers at Bauer Crider Kenny & Parry right away.

We have worked with clients facing a variety of white collar criminal issues since 1989, and our attorneys have more than 100 years of combined experience. We diligently represent you in and out of court, including in local, state, and federal court settings.

Accused of a white collar crime in Clearwater, FL? Contact us today to discuss your case!

What Are Common White Collar Crimes?

The most common types of white collar crime are the following:

• Fraud. Fraud usually involves one person deceiving another person for monetary gain. A very common type of fraud is insurance fraud — in the United States, the total cost of insurance fraud is an estimated $40 billion per year.
• Identity theft. Identity theft is defined as the theft of other people’s financial and personal information for the purpose of assuming their identities to make purchases using their money.
• Embezzlement. Embezzlement involves taking money from someone to whom you owe a duty, such as an employer. While the most common example of embezzlement involves employees taking company money, sometimes the reverse is true — for example, there are cases of investment advisors improperly taking client funds for their own personal use.

What Are the Penalties for White Collar Crimes in Florida?

Generally, Florida’s white collar crime laws are more lenient than federal laws. A crime might be prosecuted as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the type and severity of the crime. Misdemeanor offenses can bring as much as one year in jail and/or a $5,000 fine. Felony offenses can result in 30 years in prison, life imprisonment and/or fines of up to $10,000.

How to Defend Yourself Against White Collar Criminal Charges

If you are charged with a white collar crime, it’s important to understand what information the prosecution will need for its case to be successful, such as, that a crime occurred and that you willfully committed the crime. Sometimes, successful defenses are built on the notion that the defendant was not intending to commit the crime.

You may be able to use the criminal defense tactic of claiming entrapment, arguing that government or law enforcement officials coerced you into committing a crime that you might never have committed otherwise. You may also claim physical or mental incapacity, intoxication or duress, which argues that another person forced you to commit the crime.

If you’ve been arrested for a white collar crime, contact our Clearwater criminal defense lawyers at Bauer Crider Kenny & Parry today. We offer free initial consultations and serve individuals throughout our region, including Clearwater, Tampa, St. Pete, and Pinellas, Pasco, and Hillsborough Counties.