White-collar crimes are typically committed in a corporate setting by business professionals, and these crimes usually involve financial deception or fraud of some kind. Defending against white-collar crime charges requires the skill and experience of a dedicated criminal defense lawyer. With the help of your criminal defense lawyer, you may be able to utilize multiple legal defenses against white-collar crime charges.
Although they are non-violent in nature, white-collar crimes are serious offenses that can carry harsh penalties. Many white-collar crimes are federal offenses; therefore, you need to defend yourself aggressively to avoid federal prison and lofty fines. John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm has a team of attorneys who are experienced in defending against white-collar crime charges, and we would be happy to discuss the facts of your case today.
How Are White-Collar Crimes Different From Other Crimes?
Many white-collar crimes can be committed privately, which is why they often go undiscovered for some time. The following are just a few examples of commonly committed white-collar crimes: money laundering, embezzlement, mail fraud, bank fraud, credit card fraud, identity theft, forgery, misapplication and misappropriation of funds, and extortion.
Due to the private nature of these crimes, the federal government and law enforcement must conduct detailed investigations in order to identify suspects for white-collar crimes and bring charges against them.
What Are Some Common Defenses Against White-Collar Crime Charges?
If you have received charges for a white-collar crime, your first step should be securing legal representation. Building a strong defense will take the experience of a criminal defense lawyer who understands the intricacies of white-collar crime cases. The following are just a few of the possible defenses that can be raised against white-collar crime charges:
- Entrapment: To raise this defense, you would have to prove that law enforcement talked you into committing a crime that you would not have committed otherwise.
- Lack of Evidence: You may be able to argue that the prosecution does not have enough evidence to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Lack of Intent: You may be able to prove that you lacked the requisite intent required to be convicted of a certain crime.
- Statute of Limitations: You may be able to prove that the prescriptive period has passed, which means the prosecution cannot legally bring the charges against you.
- Breach of Constitutional Rights: There are several Constitutional rights that every defendant is owed, and your criminal defense attorney may be able to identify if or when law enforcement breached one of your protected rights.
Although every defense is not available in every case, your lawyer will be able to identify any relevant defenses you can raise. It is important for you to do everything you can to protect your rights and defend yourself against the prosecution. Having strong legal representation means that you will not be fighting the prosecution alone.
Speak to a Skilled White-Collar Crime Lawyer With John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm About Your Charges Today
White-collar crimes are not uncommon in Louisiana, and many people who commit such crimes will face the federal government as a result. If you have been charged with a white-collar crime, you should consult with a skilled attorney as soon as possible. Our team of experienced criminal defense lawyers know how to investigate and defend against white-collar crime charges, and we want to help you.
John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm has a team of legal advocates who care about helping defendants protect their rights. To reach us, please fill out our contact form or call (318) 377-1555 today.