Criminal Defense For Florida White Collar Crimes
Typically, white collar crimes are investigated by state or federal investigators for a long period of time before criminal charges are filed. If you believe that you are under investigation for a white collar crime, or have been arrested and charged with fraud or embezzlement, our criminal defense attorneys at Bauer, Crider, Kindel and Parry, can protect your constitutional rights and protect your future and freedom. The lawyers on our team have over 100 years of combined experience representing clients in Florida who have been accused of complex or high-profile crimes.
What Is White Collar Crime?
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. Our attorneys represent clients accused of 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 advisers improperly taking client funds for their own personal use.
If you’ve been accused of a white collar crime in South Florida, consult with our experienced criminal defense attorneys. 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 Pasco County? Contact us today to discuss your case!
What Are The Penalties For White Collar Crimes In Florida?
Generally, Florida’s white collar crime laws are more lenient than federal laws. 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.
Preparing A Defense 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. Investigators and the prosecuting attorneys have to prove 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.
Another criminal defense tactic is to claim 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.
Our criminal defense attorneys at Bauer, Crider, Kindel and Parry will analyze the facts and the government’s case against you, conduct an independent investigation if necessary, and make sure that your constitutional rights are protected throughout the entire process, all with the goal of protecting your future and freedom.
Contact A White Collar Defense Attorney Today
If you think you are under investigation for a white collar crime, or you have been arrested or indicted on criminal charges, contact us today. We offer free initial consultations and serve individuals throughout our region, including Clearwater, Tampa and Pasco County. You can schedule your free appointment by calling 727-275-9822 or by sending an email through our website.