Los Angeles White Collar Crimes Lawyer

Los Angeles White Collar Crimes Lawyer

Have you been arrested or charged with a white collar crime in Los Angeles, California? Contact Perlman & Cohen Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers for a free consultation at (310) 557-1700. Our Los Angeles white collar crimes lawyers can help you form an effective response to what you’re facing and will represent you throughout the legal process. 

Our attorneys can evaluate the charges and evidence against you, explain possible defense strategies, and represent you throughout the criminal process. We can also prepare to bring your case to trial when necessary, based on the circumstances of your case.

Why Hire Perlman & Cohen Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers if I’ve Been Charged With a White Collar Crime in Los Angeles, CA?

Why Hire Perlman & Cohen Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers if I’ve Been Charged With a White Collar Crime in Los Angeles, CA?

White collar charges can be some of the most complex cases in criminal law, as they often involve federal agencies that could mean multiple sets of laws are in play. Perlman & Cohen Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers is qualified to help you fight back against these charges with confidence. 

Here are some reasons to trust our legal team with your case:

  • Our defense attorneys bring 40 years of combined experience to every white collar case we handle
  • We have successfully defended clients against thousands of criminal charges in Los Angeles, CA
  • Attorney Daniel Perlman previously worked as a prosecutor, giving our team firsthand insight into how the government builds its cases
  • We hold a perfect 10.0 Avvo rating and have earned multiple Client's Choice awards for our legal work
  • We handle both state and federal white collar cases in courts across the Los Angeles area

Our Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys can review the allegations, evidence, and potential consequences involved in your case. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation.

A Brief Overview of White Collar Crime Law in California

White collar crimes generally involve deception, concealment, or a violation of trust for financial gain. California addresses these offenses under several different criminal statutes, and the elements and possible penalties depend on the specific charge.

For example, California Penal Code 503 defines embezzlement as the fraudulent appropriation of property by someone entrusted with it. The value of the property can affect how an embezzlement offense is charged and punished.

White collar cases may involve large amounts of evidence, including financial records, emails, contracts, and other electronic communications. Reviewing this evidence and determining whether the prosecution can prove each element of the alleged offense can be an important part of preparing a defense.

Common Types of White Collar Crimes We Handle in Los Angeles

White collar charges cover a broad spectrum of financial offenses. 

Our Los Angeles defense attorneys are prepared to represent you against any of the following:

  • Embezzlement
  • Wire fraud
  • Mail fraud
  • Bank fraud
  • Counterfeiting
  • Securities and investment fraud
  • Insurance fraud
  • Identity theft
  • Tax evasion and tax fraud
  • Money laundering
  • Forgery
  • Public corruption and bribery
  • Ponzi and pyramid schemes

These are just some examples. If you are facing charges for a financial crime not listed here, contact our legal team today for a free consultation. We can help assess your situation regardless of the specific charges that apply to your case.

When Can a White Collar Case Become a Federal Case?

Some white collar cases in Los Angeles are prosecuted in federal court. Federal jurisdiction may apply when alleged conduct involves interstate communications, federally regulated institutions, or violations of federal criminal law.

Federal investigations may begin well before charges are filed. Agencies such as the FBI or IRS Criminal Investigation may gather evidence through:

  • Grand jury subpoenas
  • Financial and business records
  • Emails and other electronic communications
  • Interviews with employees, business partners, or other witnesses
  • Search warrants

A person may learn about an investigation after receiving a subpoena, being contacted by investigators, or becoming the subject of a search warrant. The stage of the investigation can affect the legal issues involved and how an attorney evaluates the situation.

What Are Some Common Federal White Collar Charges?

Federal law covers many types of financial and fraud-related offenses. The government must prove the elements of the specific offense charged, and potential penalties depend on the statute and circumstances of the case.

Federal white collar charges may include:

A federal conviction can carry imprisonment, fines, restitution, and other consequences, depending on the offense. Because federal cases follow different laws and procedures from California state cases, an attorney handling a federal white collar matter must account for the specific charges, evidence, and rules that apply in federal court.

What Are the Potential Penalties for a White Collar Crime Conviction in Los Angeles?

The consequences of a white collar crime conviction depend on the specific offense, whether the case is prosecuted in state or federal court, the facts of the case, and other factors.

What Penalties Can Apply in California State Court?

Depending on the offense, a California white collar crime may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. A conviction can result in incarceration, fines, restitution, probation, and other penalties.

Additional penalties may apply in cases involving significant financial losses or a pattern of criminal conduct. For example, California Penal Code § 186.11 provides sentencing enhancements when its specific requirements are met.

What Penalties Can Apply in Federal Court?

Federal white collar convictions can also result in imprisonment, fines, restitution, forfeiture, and other penalties. Federal courts consider the statute involved, the circumstances of the offense, and the applicable United States Sentencing Guidelines, along with other legally relevant factors, when determining a sentence.

What Other Consequences Can Follow a White Collar Conviction?

A conviction may have consequences outside the criminal sentence. 

Depending on the circumstances, these can include:

  • Loss or suspension of a professional license
  • Difficulty finding or keeping certain employment
  • Immigration consequences for noncitizens
  • Forfeiture of assets connected to criminal conduct
  • Damage to personal and professional relationships

Some consequences may continue after a person completes their criminal sentence. The specific effects of a conviction depend on the offense, the person’s circumstances, and any other laws or professional rules that apply.

What Defenses Can I Raise Against White Collar Crime Charges?

The prosecution bears the burden of proving every element of the charges against you beyond a reasonable doubt. White collar cases are built heavily on documentary evidence and financial records as well, which means there are often meaningful opportunities to challenge the government's interpretation of the facts.

Our attorneys will thoroughly review the evidence and investigate the circumstances to determine the best defense strategy. 

Possible defenses to white collar charges in Los Angeles include:

  • You did not possess the required intent to commit fraud or deceive
  • Your constitutional rights were violated 
  • The government's case relies on unreliable testimony 
  • The financial records or calculations used by the prosecution contain errors 
  • You relied in good faith on the advice of a professional

Other defenses may be available depending on the specific facts and circumstances of your case. We’ll do all we can to help you have your charges dismissed altogether if possible, though note that we can’t guarantee any particular outcome in advance. 

What to Do if You Are Under Investigation for a White Collar Crime in Los Angeles

The investigation stage is one of the most important in a white collar crimes case and can begin months prior to charges being filed. 

There are several steps you should take to protect yourself during this time, such as:

  • Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney before speaking with investigators or responding to any requests
  • Exercise your right to remain silent. Even innocent statements can be taken out of context and used against you later
  • Do not delete any electronic records. Doing so can lead to additional charges such as obstruction of justice
  • Avoid discussing the investigation with coworkers, business partners, or anyone who could be called as a witness
  • Keep a record of any contact you receive from law enforcement or government agencies

Acting early during the investigation phase can make a meaningful difference in the outcome of your case. In some situations, we may be able to intervene before charges are ever filed in the first place. 

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Experienced Los Angeles White Collar Crimes Attorneys

Are you facing white collar charges in Los Angeles, CA? White collar allegations can involve complex evidence and serious state or federal charges. Understanding the allegations and the legal process can help you determine how to respond. 

At Perlman & Cohen Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers, our lawyers have 40 years of experience handling complex criminal cases in both state and federal court. Contact our Los Angeles white collar crimes attorneys today to set up a free consultation and learn more about what we can do for you.

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