A white collar crime is any non-violent, illegal activity committed through deceit with the intention of increasing personal finances. These crimes don’t need to be committed on a massive scale to be considered white collar offenses. For example, a person who might decide to lie about a condition in order to get extra prescription drugs can be convicted of a white collar crime.
White collar crimes include:
- embezzlement;
- insider trading;
- money laundering;
- fraud;
- wage theft;
- bribery;
- racketeering;
- cybercrime;
- identity theft; and
- forgery.
Penalties
In the state of Florida, the penalties for a white collar crime can be steep and severe. The punishment depends on the nature of the crime, the defendant’s criminal history, and the amount of money gained.
White collar crimes can be charged as a:
- Second Degree Misdemeanor: resulting in a maximum of 60 days in jail and/or fines up to $500.
- First Degree Misdemeanor: resulting in a maximum of 1 year in jail and/or fines up to $1,000.
- Third Degree Felony: resulting in a maximum of 5 years in prison and/or fines up to $5,000.
- Second Degree Felony: resulting in a maximum of 15 years in prison and/or fines up to $10,000.
- First Degree Felony: resulting in a maximum of 30 years in prison and/or fines up to $10,000.
Defense Options
If you’ve been accused of a white collar offense, the first thing you should do is align yourself with an experienced white-collar crime attorney.
To be convicted of a crime, the defendant must be proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Common defenses for white collar crimes include:
- discrediting the state’s case (by disproving evidence);
- proving the crime was committed under coercion from law enforcement; and
- proving the defendant was unaware their actions were criminal.
Contact the Law Office of Jody L. Fisher
Our attorney has a proven track record in criminal defense and has earned a reputation for thorough and aggressive legal representation. If you’re facing white collar criminal charges, do not wait to contact our office for help. Backed by over 15 years of legal experience, we know what it takes to fight and win.
Call our firm today at (352) 503-4111 or contact us online for a consultation.