When many people hear the word “crime,” they think of burglars smashing store windows to steal the goods inside, or drug smugglers moving illicit substances across state lines. But these kinds of dramatic crimes seen on TV dramas aren’t the only form of illegal activity. Non-violent crimes committed for financial gain are known as white collar crimes. Many of these crimes are classed as felonies, and if convicted, can result in penalties such as prison time and fines. Accusations of white collar crimes should be taken seriously and an excellent legal team is essential. If you are accused of a white collar crime in Arizona, Suzuki Law Offices are a team of experienced attorneys that will handle your case and defend your rights.
We serve the Tucson, Sierra Vista and Douglas areas, and statewide in Arizona.
What Are Common White Collar Crimes?
Although white collar crimes can take many forms, these are some of the most common.
Bankruptcy Fraud
Filing for bankruptcy is often a last resort for individuals with mounting debt. In order to be relieved of obligation to their creditors, the debtor has to surrender a portion of their non-essential assets. These are assets outside of the debtor’s bare essentials – that is, needed to maintain their household and continue working. Some debtors will deliberately hide assets so they won’t be repossessed. Doing so is illegal, and can result in an accusation of bankruptcy fraud.
Embezzlement
Embezzlement occurs when an individual in charge of handling money on behalf of their employer (or any person who trusts them with financial responsibility) misappropriates funds for their own benefit. There are multiple ways to commit embezzlement, for example an accountant in charge of both accounts payable and receivable diverts income into their own bank account. Another example is a person in charge of fundraising uses funds for their personal use.
Ponzi Schemes
Charles Ponzi gained notoriety for mail coupon fraud in the 1920s, paying his earlier investors with the proceeds from later investors. This model of fraud came to be known as the Ponzi scheme. Investors are promised a high return at little risk. Since new investors have to be constantly recruited to pay the older ones, the scheme eventually collapses and newer investors lose their money.
Extortion
Extortion happens when a person or institution is coerced to pay money or provide property or services. This includes blackmail, when victims are threatened with the release of damaging information. Another form of extortion is protection money demanded from businesses by gangs that occupy a territory.
What if I am Accused of a White Collar Crime?
At Suzuki Law, our expert team can represent individuals accused of any of the following crimes:
- Fraud
- Insurance fraud
- Mail and wire fraud
- Mortgage fraud
- Computer crimes
- Identity theft
- Embezzlement
- Forgery
- Passing bad checks
- Credit card fraud
- Money laundering
- Racketeering (RICO)
- Ponzi schemes
As former prosecutors, the team at Suzuki Law Offices have significant experience with the complex legal and factual issues in prosecution of white collar crimes. We understand the serious implications of your case and will work tirelessly to defend your rights.
If you are accused of a white collar crime, you need legal counsel immediately. Contact us for a free consultation.