Santa Ana White Collar Crime Attorney

Defending Against White Collar Crimes in California

Moises Aguilar, Attorney at Law handles a wide variety of white collar crime charges in Santa Ana and throughout Orange County. If you or a loved one is under investigation for a white collar crime or has already been charged with this offense, you need to speak to our Santa Ana white collar crime attorney as soon as possible, so that we can begin taking legal action on your behalf.

Time is of the essence when it comes to white collar crime cases and the more time we have to prepare a defense on your behalf, the better the chances will be of beating your charges.

Reach out now by calling us at (714) 408-1249 or contacting us online to schedule your free consultation with a knowledgeable Santa Ana white collar crime attorney. We’re here to protect your rights.

What is White Collar Crime in California

When a non-violent crime is committed in a business environment and involves money or property, it is typically considered to be a "white collar crime." The term white collar crime was first used in the 1930s but is now widely known and encompasses a wide range of criminal offenses, some of which include:

• Fraud
• Embezzlement
• Extortion
• Forgery
• Bribery
• Money laundering
• Insider trading 
• Tax evasion

The people who typically end up facing white collar crime charges are employees who deal with money and are in positions of trust, such as accountants, bookkeepers, payroll clerks, managers, etc.

Penalties of White-Collar Crimes in California

The consequences of a white-collar crime conviction can be severe, impacting both personal and professional life. Here is an overview of potential penalties you may face depending on your case:

• Fraud: Up to 16 months to 3 years in prison, fines up to $10,000, and restitution for the defrauded amount.
• Embezzlement: Up to 3 years in prison (or 1 year for misdemeanor), fines up to $1,000, and restitution to the employer.
• Insider Trading: Up to 5 years in prison and fines up to $250,000, or three times the amount gained or lost.
• Money Laundering: 2 to 10 years in prison and fines up to $250,000, or double the amount laundered.
• Tax Evasion: Up to 1 year in jail for misdemeanor or up to 3 years for felony, plus fines up to $10,000.
• Identity Theft: Up to 3 years in prison, fines up to $10,000, and restitution to victims for losses incurred.
• Bribery and Corruption: Up to 4 years in prison and fines up to $10,000, plus disqualification from future government contracts.

In addition to criminal charges, individuals may face civil lawsuits seeking damages related to their actions. Additionally, a conviction can lead to the loss of professional licenses, difficulty securing future employment, and damage to one’s reputation.

Contact us now, we can help you create a strong defense strategy to face your charges. Call us at (714) 408-1249 to schedule a free consultation.

Common Defenses Against White Collar Crime Charges

Our Santa Ana white collar crime lawyers can employ several defenses in white collar crime cases, depending on the specifics of the charges:

• Lack of Intent: Many white-collar crimes require proof of intent to commit fraud or deceit. If you did not intend to commit a crime, this can be a strong defense.
• Mistake of Fact: If you acted under a misunderstanding of the facts, demonstrating this could negate criminal liability.
• Entrapment: If law enforcement induced you to commit a crime you would not have otherwise committed, you may have a valid entrapment defense.
• Insufficient Evidence: Challenging the evidence presented by the prosecution is a common strategy. If the evidence does not meet the burden of proof, charges may be dismissed.
• Coercion or Duress: If you were forced to commit a crime under threat of harm, this defense can be compelling.

Contact Our White Collar Crime Attorney in Santa Ana Today

If you are facing charges of a white collar crime, we can try to help you overcome this difficult legal situation. Need a lawyer for your criminal case in Santa Ana? Attorney Moises Aguilar understands just how much you have at stake and will always handle your case in a serious manner. During the initial consultation, he will begin evaluating your case to find the best way of defending you and throughout the criminal process, will seek a satisfactory resolution.

To find out more about how we can help you, contact Santa Ana white collar crime attorney Moises Aguilar today! Contact us now (714) 408-1249

Commonly Asked Questions on White Collar Crimes in California 

Can I Negotiate a Plea Deal?

Yes, many white-collar crime cases are resolved through plea negotiations. An experienced attorney can advocate on your behalf to potentially secure reduced charges or a more favorable sentence.

What Happens if I Am Acquitted of the Charges?

An acquittal means you are found not guilty of the charges, which is a significant victory. However, you may still face civil lawsuits or other consequences related to the allegations.

Can I Be Charged with a White Collar Crime Even if I Didn’t Directly Benefit Financially?

Yes, individuals can be charged for facilitating or participating in a white-collar crime, even if they did not personally gain from the activity.