DETROIT WHITE COLLAR CRIME DEFENSE LAWYER
White-collar crimes are nonviolent offenses typically motivated by financial gain. They often involve deceit, fraud, or the misuse of power within business, government, or other professional settings. While they lack the physical harm associated with violent crimes, their consequences can be devastating, leading to severe legal penalties, financial ruin, and reputational damage.
Defending against white collar crime charges is highly complex. These cases often hinge on intricate financial records, digital evidence, or business practices that require detailed analysis. They may involve multiple parties or organizations, both as perpetrators and victims.
Further, government agencies with vast resources, such as the FBI, IRS, or state investigative units, frequently handle these offenses. This makes it critical to have an experienced attorney who understands the nuances of both state and federal laws.
If you’re looking for the best federal white-collar crime attorney for your case, we invite you to call us for a free consultation. With more than 35 years of federal criminal defense experience, firm founding attorney David Lee is highly experienced in defending clients in complex federal criminal defense cases.
Common White-Collar Crimes in Michigan
White collar crimes come in various forms, each carrying unique legal challenges.
These include, but are not limited to, the following.
- Embezzlement “(MCL 750.174)” :The theft or misuse of funds entrusted to someone in a fiduciary role.
- Fraudulent business practices “(MCL 750.271)”: Acts of deception designed to manipulate consumers or financial transactions.
- Identity theft “(MCL 445.65)”: Using someone else’s personal information for financial or other gain.
- Forgery “(MCL 750.248)”: The falsification of documents intending to defraud.
- Insurance fraud “(MCL 500.4511)”: Providing false information to obtain insurance benefits.
- Money laundering “(MCL 750.411)”: Concealing the origins of illegally obtained money by passing it through legitimate businesses.
- Tax evasion “(MCL 205.27)”: Intentionally avoiding paying owed taxes.
The above crimes are charged under Michigan state laws, but the federal government may also be involved depending on the circumstances, leading to dual prosecutions.
How White-Collar Penalties are Determined
The penalties for white collar crimes can vary significantly and are influenced by several factors.
- The amount of financial loss: Larger monetary damages typically result in harsher penalties.
- Victim impact: Crimes affecting vulnerable individuals, businesses, or public institutions can carry more severe consequences.
- Intent: Demonstrated willful intent to commit fraud or deception can lead to greater sentencing severity.
- Criminal history: Repeat offenses or prior criminal records can escalate punishment.
For example, in embezzlement, if the amount stolen is between $1,000 and $20,000, it is considered a felony punishable by up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000 or three times the value of the embezzled property (whichever is greater), and restitution to the victim.
At the federal level, offenses involving interstate transactions can result in even stricter penalties under federal sentencing guidelines.
Why You Need and Experienced White Collar Crime Lawyer
State and federal authorities meticulously investigate white-collar crimes, which often involve extensive documentation, forensic audits, and legal intricacies that are difficult to interpret without legal knowledge. The stakes are high, with conviction carrying potentially lifelong consequences for your career, finances, and freedom.
At the Law Offices of David I. Lee, attorney David Lee has successfully handled cases involving complex financial transactions, government investigations, and high-stakes charges. While no guaranty can ever be made about a successful outcome in a criminal defense case, David knows how to challenge evidence, negotiate favorable resolutions, and provide a robust defense in court.