You might think that white-collar crimes are reserved for CEOs or Wall Street executives, but they can affect everyday people, too. In California, these offenses range from falsifying financial records to defrauding government agencies. Whether the allegations stem from a misunderstanding or something more serious, a white-collar crime accusation can instantly derail your future.
At Esfandi Law Group, we understand how stressful these charges can be. Our goal is to help you understand your rights, the charges you are facing, and how to fight back with a strong defense.
What Is a White-Collar Crime?
White-collar crime refers to nonviolent, financially motivated offenses typically committed by individuals in positions of trust or with access to sensitive information. These crimes often involve deception, fraud, or breach of fiduciary duty and are prosecuted under both state and federal laws.
Common characteristics of white-collar crimes include:
- Use of deceit or misrepresentation,
- Financial gain or benefit,
- Abuse of trust or authority, and
- Lack of physical violence.
Almost all types of white-collar crimes involve complex investigations, digital evidence, and expert witnesses. Prosecutors build their cases with financial records, emails, and other documentation; acting quickly with legal counsel gives you the best chance at challenging the evidence.
Types of White-Collar Crimes
White-collar crimes can come in many forms. Some of the most common white-collar crimes prosecuted in California include:
- Embezzlement. Misappropriating funds or property entrusted to you, often in the workplace.
- Fraud. This broad category includes insurance, tax, credit card, and real estate fraud.
- Bribery. Offering or accepting something of value to influence a public official or decision-maker.
- Forgery. Falsifying signatures or documents for financial gain.
- Money laundering. Concealing the origins of illegally obtained money through legitimate business activities.
- Identity theft. Using someone else’s personal information to open accounts, secure credit, or make purchases.
- Tax evasion. Intentionally underreporting income or inflating deductions on tax returns.
- Securities fraud. Misleading investors or manipulating financial markets.
These crimes are aggressively prosecuted because they can impact large numbers of people or public trust in institutions. The charges sometimes span multiple jurisdictions or involve federal agencies like the FBI or IRS.
Each type of offense involves specific legal elements that the prosecution must prove. For example, to convict someone of embezzlement, the state must show that the person had lawful access to the money or property and intentionally converted it for personal use. A knowledgeable defense team is key to analyzing the allegations and challenging the government’s evidence.
Examples of White-Collar Crime Cases
While every case is unique, understanding how these offenses typically occur can help you evaluate your situation. Here are some white-collar crime examples that mirror how charges are commonly brought:
- Embezzlement. A small business accountant diverts company funds into a personal account and attempts to cover their tracks using false records. This scenario could result in embezzlement and fraud charges.
- Healthcare fraud. An employee at a medical billing company overcharges Medicare for services that were never provided. Prosecutors may charge those acts as healthcare fraud at both the state and federal levels.
- Forgery. A landlord forges a tenant’s signature on a lease agreement to change the terms in their favor, leading to charges for forgery and real estate fraud.
- Welfare fraud. A person receives unemployment benefits while failing to report their continued employment. Authorities may pursue this situation as welfare fraud.
- Securities fraud. A financial advisor convinces clients to invest in a fake company, then pockets the funds for personal use. This is a textbook example of securities fraud.
These examples of white-collar crime demonstrate how these cases often involve trust-based relationships that are later exploited. Because of the paper trail and financial documentation involved, it’s critical to have an attorney who understands how to challenge the evidence and uncover flaws in the prosecution’s claims.
Penalties for White-Collar Crimes
Penalties depend on the severity of the crime, the amount of money involved, and whether you have prior convictions. In California, white-collar crimes are often classified as “wobblers,” meaning they can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies.
- Misdemeanor penalties—up to one year in county jail and fines up to $1,000;
- Felony penalties—16 months to 3 years in state prison and fines up to $10,000 or more; and
- Restitution—courts often require convicted individuals to repay the victims.
The California law, known as the “White-Collar Crime Enhancement,” allows for additional prison time and fines if the crime involved more than $100,000 in losses. Some federal convictions carry mandatory minimums and harsher sentencing guidelines.
Convictions can also trigger professional license revocation, create difficulty finding employment, lead to immigration consequences, and cause long-term damage to your reputation. The social and financial costs are often as significant as the legal penalties.
How to Defend Against White-Collar Crime Charges
White collar charges often involve years of financial records and communications, which can make the cases seem overwhelming. However, several effective defenses may apply:
- Lack of intent. If you did not knowingly commit fraud or mislead anyone, it’s harder for the prosecution to prove criminal intent.
- Mistaken identity. You may have been wrongly accused, especially in digital crimes where multiple people may have access to the same accounts.
- Insufficient evidence. The case may fall apart if the prosecution cannot clearly trace funds or prove misrepresentation.
- Good faith belief. You may have acted under the impression that your conduct was legal, such as relying on professional advice.
Your defense strategy must fit the specific facts of your case. At Esfandi Law Group, we evaluate all documentation, question the integrity of the evidence, and work to resolve the matter as efficiently and discreetly as possible.
Why Legal Representation Matters
White-collar cases often begin with a lengthy investigation. You may not be formally charged yet, but statements made during this phase still carry weight and may be used against you. Having a lawyer from the beginning can help you avoid mistakes that could hurt your defense.
Our team at Esfandi Law Group has the experience, discretion, and legal insight necessary to challenge these charges. Whether negotiating a favorable plea or fighting for dismissal, we are committed to protecting your future.
Talk to Esfandi Law Group Today
Facing a white-collar crime investigation or arrest can be isolating and frightening, but you don’t have to deal with it alone. At Esfandi Law Group, we’ve helped countless clients in Los Angeles and throughout California challenge the most complex allegations.
Call us today for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your concerns, explain your legal options, and build a defense strategy tailored to your unique situation.
