Columbia White-Collar Crimes Lawyer

When prosecutors use the term “white-collar crime,” they typically describe non-violent crimes that involve a financial component. While these acts do not involve violence, the scope of the financial losses means these acts can still lead to severe penalties. A conviction often results in serious, life-altering consequences.

If you have been accused of a white-collar crime, a dedicated defense attorney could help you navigate the criminal charges you currently face. Instead of having the burden of defending yourself, it could be in your best interest to rely on the guidance of a Columbia white-collar crime lawyer to help relieve your stress.

Fraud Offenses

For many people, the term “white-collar” is synonymous with fraud. These acts can include anything from fraudulently obtaining a business license to stealing someone else’s identity in an effort to defraud another party. A white-collar crimes attorney in Columbia could help build a defense against some of the following common allegations:

Wire Fraud

Wire fraud is a serious offense that involves the use of electronic communication to deceive individuals or organizations for financial gain. Wire fraud typically occurs when someone intentionally devises a scheme to obtain money or property from another person through false pretenses.

Mail Fraud

Mail fraud involves the use of the United States Postal Service or other mail carriers to carry out fraudulent activities for monetary gain. It occurs when individuals intentionally plan to defraud others by using the mail system to transmit false representations, promises, or materials.

Mortgage Fraud

Mortgage fraud is a deceptive practice that involves misrepresentations or omissions during the mortgage application process. In most cases, the goal is to obtain a loan or gain financial benefits that the applicant would not otherwise qualify for.

Other Types of White-Collar Crimes

Not every type of white-collar crime is a fraud offense. This category of illegal activity often extends beyond attempting to defraud another person directly. Some of the most common examples of additional white-collar crimes include:

• Insider trading
• Racketeering
• Bribery or corruption
• Embezzlement

Each of these offenses is serious, and a conviction could have a dramatic impact on the life of the accused. Due to the high stakes, it is a good idea for anyone facing these or similar charges to discuss their options with a white-collar crimes attorney.

The Financial Transaction Card Crime Act

Various examples of credit card fraud are some of the most common white-collar crimes in Columbia and throughout the state. These acts are specifically governed by the Financial Transaction Card Crime Act. This act governs a wide range of criminal activity regarding the misuse of credit cards. Specifically, it outlaws the fraudulent use of these accounts by way of forged, altered, duplicated, revoked, or stolen cards.

The penalties associated with this offense can vary. Depending on the circumstances, a person could be charged under the statute with either a misdemeanor or a felony. Fortunately, it could be possible to fight these white-collar charges with the help of a Columbia attorney.

Talk to a Columbia White-Collar Crimes Attorney Today

If you have been accused of a white-collar crime, you have the right to defend yourself in a court of law. You are also entitled to top-quality legal counsel to aid in your defense. Call our legal team today to speak with a Columbia white-collar crimes lawyer about your case.