Melbourne White Collar Crimes Lawyer

Defending Against White Collar Crime Charges in Brevard County

White collar crimes may be prosecuted in Florida Circuit Court or federal court. At Funk, Szachacz & Diamond, our criminal law practice focuses on criminal trials, post-conviction assistance, and appellate litigation for clients charged with white collar crimes. Our Melbourne white collar crimes lawyers represent clients in both state and federal court.

Have you been arrested for a white collar crime in Florida? Our Melbourne white collar crime attorney is here to help you. Call Funk, Szachacz & Diamond today at (321) 360-4446 or contact us online to get started.

What are Common Types of White Collar Crimes in Florida?

White collar crime is a generic term for crimes that are non-violent in nature and typically involve illegal means of financial gain, such as; Fraud, Theft, Embezzlement, Tax Evasion, as well as other similar crimes. These crimes are often prosecuted in Federal Court, but can also be brought in Florida Circuit court as well.

The charges may be misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the circumstances. Penalties can vary according to the charge, but you risk heavy fines, loss of professional licenses, and incarceration if convicted of a white collar crime.

We represent clients charged with white collar crimes that include:

• Embezzlement
• Fraud
• Theft
• Forgery
• Internet fraud
• Computer crimes
• Insurance fraud
• Ponzi schemes
• Tax evasion

Although white collar crimes are nonviolent and may seem less serious than other criminal charges, the penalties for being convicted can be quite severe and impact all areas of your life. Prominent members of the business community and professionals have had their lives and livelihoods ruined by accusations of white collar crimes, even if they are not convicted. In order to protect your freedom and professional representation, it is in your interest to seek legal advice from an attorney with experience in this area of law.

What is the Role of the Prosecution?

To charge you with a white collar crime, the prosecution must prove several key elements specific to the type of crime involved, including the defendant's intent, actions, and knowledge surrounding the alleged crime.

While the exact elements vary by the type of white collar crime, the prosecution generally must prove the following:

• The prosecution must prove the defendant intentionally committed a criminal act with the purpose of financial gain.
• The defendant must have knowledge of the illegal nature of the activity.
• The prosecution must establish the defendant’s role or participation in the crime.
• Evidence must show that a criminal act occurred, such as fraud, embezzlement, or bribery.
• There must be proof of resulting harm or potential harm, typically financial loss.
• The defendant’s actions must violate specific statutes or laws (e.g., securities laws, fraud statutes).
• The prosecution will present documentary evidence, such as financial records, to link the defendant to the crime.

For those accused of white collar crimes, the stakes are high. A Melbourne white collar crimes lawyer will work to minimize the penalties you face, whether that involves negotiating a plea deal, securing a reduced sentence, or defending your innocence at trial.

What are the Penalties for White Collar Crimes in Florida?

In Florida, the penalties for white collar crimes can vary significantly depending on the nature of the offense, the amount of financial loss involved, and whether the defendant has any prior convictions.

Below are some specific white collar crimes examples and their corresponding penalties under Florida law:

• Fraud: Ranges from up to 5 years in prison and $5,000 fines for lesser offenses to up to 30 years in prison and $10,000 fines for major fraud cases.
• Embezzlement: Penalties include up to 5 years in prison for theft under $20,000 and up to 30 years and $10,000 fines for amounts exceeding $100,000.
• Money Laundering: Penalties can range from 5 years in prison for smaller amounts to 30 years in prison for larger sums, with fines up to $10,000.
• Securities Fraud: Convictions can result in up to 5 years in prison and $5,000 fines for lesser cases, and up to 30 years in prison for larger-scale fraud.
• Tax Evasion: Penalties range from 5 years in prison and $5,000 fines for smaller evasion amounts to 30 years for cases exceeding $100,000.
• Bribery and Corruption: Convictions can lead to up to 5 years in prison for small bribes, escalating to 30 years in prison for large-scale corruption.
• Identity Theft: Penalties range from 5 years in prison and $5,000 fines for smaller thefts, to up to 30 years for large-scale fraud.
• Insurance Fraud: Convictions may lead to up to 5 years in prison for minor fraud, with penalties of up to 30 years for major offenses.

What is the Impact of White Collar Crimes Beyond Criminal Penalties?

White collar crimes can have far-reaching consequences, not only for the individuals charged but also for businesses and communities. Understanding the implications of these offenses is crucial for anyone facing charges or involved in a related investigation.

Here are some key points to consider:

• Reputation Damage: A white collar crime charge can tarnish your personal and professional reputation, affecting future employment opportunities and relationships.
• Impact on Business: For business owners, a charge can lead to loss of clients, decreased revenue, and potential bankruptcy, affecting employees and stakeholders.
• Long-Term Effects: The ramifications of a white collar crime conviction can extend beyond legal penalties, influencing your credit score and financial stability for years to come.

How to Defend Against White Collar Crimes Charges?

White collar crime cases often involve complex financial records and expert testimony, making them difficult to navigate. Defending against such charges requires a skilled Melbourne white collar crimes attorney who can effectively challenge the evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case, and provide a strong defense. Prosecutors typically rely on forensic accountants and other experts to support their case, so it is essential to work with a lawyer who understands both the legal and financial aspects of these cases.

Common defense strategies in white collar crime cases include challenging the prosecution's evidence, arguing lack of criminal intent, or demonstrating that the defendant acted without knowledge of illegal activities. In some cases, duress, coercion, or entrapment may be used as a defense if the defendant was pressured or induced to commit the crime. Additionally, a skilled attorney may argue that the alleged actions were unintentional, or that the evidence presented does not meet the legal standard required for a conviction.

Contact Our White Collar Crimes Lawyer in Melbourne Today

Our Melbourne white collar crimes attorneys are all Board Certified lawyers. We have represented prominent people in the local community, including doctors, police officers, NASA employees, teachers, athletes, other attorneys, a judge, and other prominent members of the legal, judicial, political, and business communities. We can fight to protect your rights, freedom, and professional reputation.