Most white collar crimes are non-violent and concern the property or money entrusted in the hands of a person who holds a position of trust within an organization. They are called “white collar” crimes because they are often committed by business professionals or government officials other than “blue collar” workers. Often times these crimes are charged when more serious violent crimes could not be proven. White collar crimes are usually prosecuted by the Federal Government or the local District Attorney’s Office. An arrest or conviction for a white collar crime can have devastating effects on a person’s professional career and reputation. In addition, the government will likely utilize forfeiture laws immediately after charges have been filed to seize all of your cash and property.
With our blend of criminal and civil law experience we are uniquely qualified to represent individuals, public officials, businesses, corporate officers and directors, and employees who are under investigation by State and Federal law enforcement agencies. White collar crimes are notoriously more complex than many criminal charges. They are frequently filed in federal court which has very different procedures than state court and typically involve massive amounts of documents that need to be reviewed. We frequently appear in both state and federal courts for our clients and are accustomed to reviewing tens of thousands of documents in our business litigation cases.
Many government investigations are molded based on the choices made at the beginning of an investigation. Hiring experienced and effective legal counsel early in the process can have a significant impact on a prosecutor’s decisions. For example, the prosecutor could choose to handle the matter as a civil proceeding as opposed to a criminal court where the burden of proof is higher. Proper Defense is capable of providing advice during every stage of an investigation or case. In addition, we can leverage our contacts in a variety of professions to provide practical representation in any industry that is faced with the threat of criminal prosecution. While it is always our goal to persuade prosecutors not to pursue charges or to obtain favorable plea bargains, we have the experience and skills needed to obtain favorable results for our clients.
If you are under investigation for a white collar crime, chances are law enforcement agencies have spent weeks, months or years investigating the commission of the crime. Investigative techniques include conducting witness interviews, issuing subpoenas for records and compelling your testimony before a grand jury. As we all know, anything you say or do can be used against you in a court of law. Innocent people, believing they have nothing to hide, make the common mistake of talking to investigators without an attorney. During this interview, the agents will ask confusing questions that are designed to obtain incriminating statements from you. In all likelihood, your words will be spun in such a way that they will be treated as an admission. Don’t make this fatal mistake that can result in your fate being sealed before you even speak with an attorney. Hire qualified legal counsel immediately so that you understand all of your rights and a strategy can be developed that minimizes your exposure.
Being a small boutique law firm allows us to offer the client service and personal attention you would expect of a small business. However, if your case calls for the cavalry to be called in we can utilize our connections with various white collar criminal defense practice groups at major and global law firms to obtain the resources necessary to litigate your case.
If you have been charged or are under investigation for a white collar offense it is important that you retain the services of an experienced white collar criminal defense attorney. At Proper Defense we understand the serious nature of these offenses, know how to best defend you and resolve the case without you going to jail. Call us today to schedule a time to speak with us.