White collar crime refers to non-violent, financially motivated offenses that are typically committed by professionals, executives, or individuals in positions of trust. These crimes often involve fraud, deception, or breach of fiduciary responsibility, and they can carry significant legal consequences including imprisonment, steep fines, restitution, and lasting damage to one’s reputation and career.
In California, white collar crime prosecutions are aggressively pursued by both state and federal authorities, especially in high-profile cases involving substantial financial loss or widespread impact. If you are under investigation or have been charged with a white collar offense, understanding the nature of these charges—and retaining experienced legal representation—is critical. At Perlman & Cohen, our Los Angeles criminal defense team is well-versed in defending clients accused of white collar crimes. We combine strategic insight, meticulous legal research, and tenacious advocacy to protect your rights and reputation.
The term “white collar crime” was first coined in the 1930s to describe crimes committed by individuals in professional or business settings. These crimes often involve complex paper trails, financial transactions, and digital evidence rather than physical violence.
White collar crimes typically fall under state or federal jurisdiction, depending on the scope, victims, and agencies involved in the investigation. The penalties are severe, particularly when the amount of financial damage exceeds certain thresholds or if the accused held a position of trust.
Fraud encompasses a wide range of criminal activity involving deception for financial or personal gain. Common types include:
Embezzlement occurs when someone who is entrusted with property or funds fraudulently takes it for their own use. This often involves employees, financial advisors, or others in fiduciary roles. In California, embezzlement is prosecuted under the same penal code as theft but is treated more seriously due to the breach of trust.
Forgery involves falsifying documents, checks, contracts, or signatures with the intent to defraud. A forged signature on a legal document or altered check can quickly escalate to felony charges.
Offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value to influence an official’s actions is considered bribery. In California, public corruption cases are handled with severity and often involve multiple legal agencies.
Money laundering is the process of concealing the origins of illegally obtained money, often through complex transactions. This is both a state and federal offense, with harsh penalties depending on the amount and type of illegal activity involved.
Using someone else’s personal information—such as Social Security numbers, bank accounts, or driver’s license details—for fraudulent purposes is identity theft. In many cases, this overlaps with cybercrime.
Failing to report income, inflating deductions, or hiding assets to avoid paying taxes can lead to charges by both the IRS and California Franchise Tax Board.
White collar crimes can be prosecuted under California state law or federal law. Federal charges typically apply when:
The U.S. Department of Justice, Securities and Exchange Commission, and Internal Revenue Service are often part of federal investigations, especially in large-scale fraud cases.
Penalties vary depending on the type and severity of the offense, the amount of financial loss, the number of victims, and whether the defendant has a criminal history. Consequences may include:
Certain offenses carry sentencing enhancements if the loss exceeds $100,000, involves multiple victims, or was committed against vulnerable individuals.
Defending against white collar crime allegations requires a nuanced, thorough approach. At Perlman & Cohen, we evaluate every aspect of the case and pursue the most strategic defense based on the facts. Common defenses include:
Most white collar crimes require specific intent to defraud. If the alleged act was a mistake, misunderstanding, or lacked the intent to deceive, this can serve as a powerful defense.
White collar cases often hinge on documentation, digital records, and financial transactions. We challenge the reliability, authenticity, and interpretation of the evidence.
If government agents pressured or coerced a person into committing a crime they would not have otherwise committed, an entrapment defense may apply.
If someone was forced to participate in the crime under threat of harm or retaliation, we may raise a defense of duress.
Certain white collar crimes have time limits for prosecution. If the alleged offense occurred outside this window, we can move to dismiss the charges.
In complex financial transactions involving multiple parties, it’s not uncommon for the wrong person to be accused. We carefully examine the evidence to ensure our client is not being scapegoated.
When facing the intense scrutiny of a white collar crime investigation, having a knowledgeable, proactive legal team is essential. Perlman & Cohen offers:
Often, individuals find out they are under investigation before formal charges are filed. Early legal intervention can make a significant difference. We can engage with investigators, present exculpatory evidence, and work to prevent charges from being filed at all.
We understand that white collar cases are often public and high-stakes. We provide guidance on how to navigate media scrutiny, employer relations, and potential professional fallout.
Our team can collaborate with top forensic accountants, digital analysts, and financial experts to dissect complex paper trails and identify flaws in the prosecution’s case.
If going to trial is not in your best interest, we can pursue plea agreements that avoid jail time or reduce charges. We may advocate for probation, restitution, or diversion programs as alternatives to incarceration.
If a case proceeds to trial, you can rely on our seasoned litigators. We are respected in California courtrooms and have a strong record of achieving favorable outcomes in complex cases.
White-collar crime cases often involve long, intensive investigations. By the time charges are filed, the prosecution has likely spent months preparing their case. The earlier you contact a defense attorney, the more options you have.
You should never speak to investigators, employers, or regulatory agencies without first consulting legal counsel. Even a seemingly harmless statement can be used against you later.
Beyond criminal penalties, a white-collar conviction can result in:
These effects can linger long after a sentence is served. That’s why a strong defense is not just about avoiding prison—it’s about protecting your life and livelihood.
White-collar crime charges require more than a basic legal defense. They demand a comprehensive, detail-oriented strategy led by a team that understands the legal, financial, and human dimensions of these cases. At Perlman & Cohen, we bring decades of experience and a relentless drive to protect our clients' rights.
Whether you're under investigation or already facing charges, we're here to help. Let us be your advocate, your strategist, and your protector during one of the most challenging times in your life.
Call us today for a confidential consultation. Your career, freedom, and reputation are too important to leave to chance. Trust Perlman & Cohen to fight for you.
