White-Collar
White Collar Defense Attorney in Los Angeles
A knock on the door, a phone call from investigators, or a subpoena in the mail suddenly turns your world upside down. What seemed like standard business dealings or financial transactions are now under government scrutiny, and you’re facing white collar criminal charges that could impact your freedom, career, and future.
This is not the time to face complex legal challenges alone. You need an experienced Los Angeles white collar crime attorney to protect your rights.
What Are White Collar Crimes?
White collar crimes involve financial misconduct in business or professional settings. They are often prosecuted aggressively, despite being nonviolent. Unlike many street crimes, white collar offenses often require in-depth investigations, involve extensive paperwork, and lead to severe economic and legal outcomes.
Since these crimes fall under both state and federal law, perpetrators could face prosecution in California or federal court, depending on the severity and scope of the allegations.
Common White Collar Crimes in California
Many different offenses fall under the umbrella of white collar crimes. The following are some of the types of charges our law firm frequently sees.
Fraud
Fraud involves deception for financial gain. There are many types of fraud, including:
- Bank fraud—illegally obtaining money from a financial institution;
- Insurance fraud—falsifying claims to receive benefits;
- Securities fraud—manipulating financial markets or misleading investors; and
- Credit card fraud—using another person’s credit card or information without authorization.
Convictions for fraud can result in years in prison, substantial fines, and restitution payments to victims.
Embezzlement
Embezzlement occurs when someone entrusted with money or assets unlawfully takes them for personal use. In many cases, this crime is committed by employees, corporate executives, or trustees of an organization. Depending on the amount stolen, embezzlement may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony offense.
Money Laundering
Money laundering conceals the source of illegally obtained funds and is heavily prosecuted at both the state and federal levels. Penalties include decades in prison and massive financial penalties.
Bribery & Public Corruption
A person commits bribery when they offer or accept something of value to influence an official decision. Public officials, business executives, and even voters can face bribery allegations, which can lead to felony charges and prison sentences.
Identity Theft
Identity theft occurs when someone steals another person’s sensitive information—e.g., Social Security numbers, bank accounts, or credit card details—often to conduct fraud or access funds illegally. With the rise of cybercrime, prosecutors take identity theft cases seriously, and convictions can lead to multiple felony counts and extended prison sentences.
Penalties for White Collar Crimes in California
The penalties for white collar crimes at the state level depend on numerous factors specific to the situation. These factors can include the amount of money involved and the number of victims. Common penalties include:
- Prison or jail time. Misdemeanor white collar crimes can result in up to one year in jail, while felony convictions can lead to decades in prison.
- Substantial fines. Courts can impose fines ranging from thousands to millions of dollars.
- Restitution to victims. Many white collar crime convictions require full repayment to those who suffered financial losses.
- Permanent criminal record. A conviction can damage your career, financial standing, and reputation.
Because many white collar crimes involve complex financial transactions and the potential for severe penalties, it is crucial to have a Los Angeles white collar criminal defense lawyer by your side.
White Collar Federal Crimes
Some white collar crimes go beyond state-level charges and fall under federal jurisdiction. Federal authorities aggressively prosecute financial crimes that affect national security, investors, and financial markets. These can include offenses such as tax fraud, insider trading, money laundering, and securities fraud.
High-profile cases involving corporate executives, hedge fund managers, and public officials demonstrate how federal authorities prioritize these offenses. In many cases, perpetrators are under investigation for months without their knowledge, since government agencies like the FBI, SEC, and IRS frequently conduct long-term investigations before making any arrests.
Compared to state-level charges, federal white collar crimes can involve more complex legal proceedings and carry harsher penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences. A conviction for federal wire fraud can result in up to 20 years in federal prison, substantial fines, and restitution payments. Fraud involving a financial institution or a federal disaster relief fund can result in up to 30 years in prison and millions of dollars in fines.
Federal prosecutors have extensive resources and ample time to build their cases. Defending against these charges demands a highly skilled Los Angeles white collar criminal defense lawyer with a deep understanding of federal law, grand jury procedures, and forensic financial investigations. Acting quickly and strategically can mean the difference between a conviction and a favorable resolution.
Legal Defenses Against White Collar Crime Charges
Being charged with a crime doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be convicted. A strong defense can lead to reduced charges or case dismissal. Some common legal defenses include the following:
- Lack of intent. Prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you knowingly and intentionally committed fraud or deception. If the evidence is circumstantial or unclear, your attorney can challenge the prosecution’s case and argue for dismissal.
- Mistaken identity or false accusation. Business disputes, corporate rivalries, and misunderstandings can lead to false accusations. A skilled Los Angeles white collar crime lawyer can expose inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case.
- Illegal search & seizure. Your lawyer can file a motion to suppress evidence illegally obtained through improper searches or wiretaps. Violations of constitutional rights can result in case dismissal.
- Insufficient evidence. White collar cases often rely on extensive financial records and paper trails. If the prosecution lacks conclusive evidence, a defense attorney can argue that the burden of proof has not been met.
An experienced LA white collar crime attorney can carefully assess the details of your case and build a tailored defense strategy. Skilled representation by an advocate familiar with federal and California laws can be a significant asset for protecting your future.
Why Choose Esfandi Law Group for Your White Collar Defense?
White collar crime cases require a deep understanding of financial investigations, forensic accounting, and federal laws. At Esfandi Law Group, we provide:
- Decades of experience defending clients in complex financial crime cases;
- Aggressive negotiation tactics to reduce charges or avoid trial;
- Thorough case analysis, including forensic audits and expert testimony; and
- A personalized defense strategy tailored to the facts of your case.
With over two decades of achieving positive results, we are dedicated to helping you safeguard your future with a robust defense.
Immediate and Powerful White Collar Defense
When facing a white collar crime investigation, time is critical. Federal and state prosecutors work diligently to construct their cases. Shouldn’t you have a defense team doing the same?
At Esfandi Law Group, we understand the high stakes and will fight relentlessly to protect your rights.
Contact us today for a confidential consultation, and let us start working on your defense immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do If I’m Under Investigation for a White Collar Crime?
Do not speak to investigators or law enforcement without an attorney. Contact a Los Angeles white collar crime attorney immediately to protect your rights.
Can White Collar Crime Charges Be Dismissed?
Yes. Charges may be dismissed if evidence was obtained illegally, there was no intent to commit a crime, or the prosecution lacks sufficient proof.
Can I Avoid Jail Time for a White Collar Crime?
In certain situations, a lawyer may be able to negotiate alternative sentencing options, such as probation, restitution, or participation in diversion programs. However, this depends on the specific charges and circumstances of the case.
How Long Do White Collar Crime Cases Take to Resolve?
The time it takes to resolve a white collar crime case can vary greatly. It could be a matter of months, or it could drag on for years. The complexity of the financial records, the depth of the investigations, and the time spent on negotiations all play a role in determining the duration.
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