The term white collar crime is used to describe non-violent crimes committed for financial gain. Those involved are often respectable people who are highly regarded on their professions. White collar crimes include insider trading, fraud, bribery, embezzlement and cybercrime. Accusations of these types of crimes are often career ending, even if they are found to be false.
Evidence of white collar crimes is often a complex paper trail involving months of investigation. Cases can be hard to defend, and criminals often implicate other parties who may be innocent. White collar crimes can be prosecuted at both state and federal level depending on the type of transactions involved. Law enforcement agencies including the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Securities and Exchange Commission are increasing their resource to tackle corporate and digital crimes. Special units such as the National Cybercrime Training Partnership have been set up to deal with specific types of white collar crime.
Developments in technology and increased use of the Internet means experts predict huge growth in white collar crime over the coming years. The recent high number of convictions and general prison overcrowding means there isn’t always space in lower security prisons for white collar criminals. This can add to the stress involved in prosecutions with those found guilty facing sentences in unsuitable prisons.
High profile fraud and insider trading cases have hit the press in recent years, and the response is a call for tougher sentences and more convictions. It’s often the small fish in white collar crime who suffer the most. They may be lower down the management structure, but they still face years away from their families, if convicted. In some cases managers are involved without knowing crimes are being committed.
White collar crime prosecutions can be unfair due to parties implicated agreeing to blow the whistle or give evidence for their own gains. There are many intangibles, and a defense attorney can’t rely on single plan of action. A criminal attorney experienced in the field of white collar crime can help to avoid mistakes during investigations and work with you to develop a solid strategy for your case.
Selecting the right lawyer is essential in white collar crime cases. Expertise, reputation and experience can help you to avoid prison sentences and save your career. Not all Houston criminal attorneys can offer this, so make sure you choose carefully.
