Sacramento Criminal Defense Lawyer Explains White Collar Crime

You’ve heard it in the news and on TV, but do you actually know what the term white collar crime really means?

Not even the experts are quite sure how the category should be properly defined!

The general consensus is that white collar crimes are non-violent, financially-motivated crimes perpetrated by individuals whom hold a trusted position. The aspect of trust is not always required, and technically, the FBI defines white collar crime as, “illegal acts which are characterized by deceit, concealment, or violation of trust and which are not dependent upon the application or threat of physical force or violence”.

White collar crimes have become a high priority for local, state and federal law enforcement agencies, and if you or a loved one has been charged with a white collar crime in Sacramento, make sure to speak with a Sacramento criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.

Common White Collar Crimes

There are many different crimes that can be classified as a white collar crime, and the FBI suggests that the annual cost from these crimes is up to $660 billion. Here are some of the more common white collar crimes:

• Embezzlement – the theft or misappropriation of funds placed in one’s trust, or belonging to one’s employer. Embezzlement is a common white collar crime and can be committed by a number of professionals including lawyers, accountants, stock brokers, investment managers and by employees of companies who are trusted to handle finances.
• Extortion – the act and or practice of obtaining something through the use of force and/or threats of force. Many people think of the mafia or other organized crime when they hear the term extortion, but this crime is actually committed frequently by everyday individuals.
• Fraud – the wrongful or criminal deception with the intent of personal or financial gain. There are many different types of fraud that a person can be charged with, and even more types of criminal activities that are technically considered fraud, some of them being insurance fraud, tax fraud, social security fraud, and medicare fraud.
• Identity Theft – the fraudulent acquisition and use of an individual’s private identifying information. This crime is usually committed for financial gain, but can also be committed for other purposes. Fraud charges are usually a part of identity theft cases as some form of fraud is often used to acquire the personal information.

A Sacramento Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help!

Have you or a loved one been charged with a white collar crime? The penalties associated with a conviction for one of the above crimes are severe and will follow you for the rest of your life. A Sacramento criminal defense lawyer can build a case to fight the prosecution and help secure your future. Call one of our criminal defense attorneys today for a free consultation!