January 11, 2017
White collar crimes refer to a class of crimes typically committed by professionals, business people, and/or public officials. White collar crimes typically involve some level of fraud, deceit, theft, or misrepresentation. There is usually also a deliberate attempt to mislead or to falsify information.
The following list includes the most common types of white-collar crimes:
- False pretenses
- Mortgage fraud
- Grand theft
- Credit card fraud
- Embezzlement
- Insurance fraud
- Healthcare fraud
- Accounting fraud
- Forgery
- Computer crimes
This is not an exhaustive list of white collar crimes recognized under Florida law. One of the most common white collar crimes is embezzlement, which usually involves stealing (or some sort of theft) from an employer.
More information about Florida white collar crimes can be located in the Florida White Collar Crime Victim Protection Act.
Defenses to White Collar Crimes
Professionals who commit white collar crimes are usually motivated by greed. They commit the crimes as a result of rash decision making. Fortunately, there are some effective legal defenses that are available to individuals charged with a white collar crime. These defenses come into play when there is insufficient evidence by the prosecution to prove the case, when the defendant can demonstrate a lack of criminal intent on his or her part, when an illegal search or seizure is involved, and in cases of mistaken identity.
Possible penalties upon conviction of a white collar crime in Florida include jail time, probation, high fines, payment of restitution, community service, and a permanent criminal record.
Contact a St. Petersburg Criminal Defense Law Firm Today
If you’ve been charged with a white collar crime, it is essential that you seek legal representation. Being convicted of a white collar crime in Florida can have a serious impact on your life, including loss of a job, loss of earnings, and loss of future job prospects. Our experienced St. Petersburg white collar criminal defense attorneys at Khonsari Law Group can examine all of the facts and circumstances of your individual case and can assert the applicable defenses. You should feel free to contact us at any time, via telephone or email, for an initial consultation.