Atlanta White Collar Crimes Attorney

404-545-5845 Call Us Now For A Free Consultation

White collar crimes are federal offenses related to the abuse of a fiduciary duty for financial gain. Although these types of crimes were historically committed by people in positions of power, such as CEOs and other corporate executives, today white collar crime is no longer limited to corruption among big businesses and the super-rich. Any person may be charged with a white collar crime, regardless of the sum of money or the method of transfer. Federal law enforcement officials are highly trained in investigating white collar crimes, so if you are under investigation for a white collar crime – regardless of whether you think you committed one – it is essential to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. Atlanta white collar crimes attorney David Schnipper can help you fight allegations that threaten to destroy your livelihood, reputation, and financial security.

Examples of White Collar Crimes

White collar crimes often involve a position of trust with unrestricted access to money. Whether the money comes from a cash register, bank vault, or collateral assets, white collar crimes are characterized by deceit, concealment, or a violation of trust. They are distinguished from larceny, robbery, and crimes involving force. White collar crimes include:

Racketeering is any criminal act involving interstate commerce by individuals, syndicates, and organizations. Illegal gambling and trafficking carried out by “mafias” or mobs are known as “organized” crimes. The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act punishes those who commit two criminal acts within a 10-year period.

Insider trading describes the disclosure of confidential information about a company for personal gain through the purchase or sale of stocks and other investments.

Embezzlement involves the appropriation or fraudulent taking of personal property by the person entrusted with the property.

Corporate crimes are offenses relating to the abuse of fiduciary duty by corporate entities. Managers and officers have a duty to protect shareholder value. They violate this duty by promoting their own personal interests above those of investors. Commercial confidence in publicly-traded companies has been eroded by various crimes, including:

• Overcharging, price fixing
• Altering financial records
• Accounting scandals
• False advertising
• Control fraud

Mail and wire fraud describe criminal activities to steal another person’s money through postal carriers, telephone, radio, or internet.

Cybercrimes are computer and internet-related offenses including piracy, copyright infringement, and other intellectual property rights.

Forgery and counterfeiting require an intentional act to make or duplicate another person’s writing, signature, or an official document, usually for financial gain.

Credit card and identity theft involve stealing and making fraudulent use of another person’s card or identifying information to make electronic transfers and financial transactions.

Pyramid or Ponzi schemes promise investors large returns of money with little to no risk. The first investors receive “paybacks” from subsequent investments.

Fraud is the misrepresentation of any material fact for personal gain. Fraudulent use of personal and corporate information permeates white collar crime.

Avoiding Penalties for White Collar Crime

Georgia white collar crime lawyer David Schnipper can help you avoid harsh penalties, including jail or prison sentences, restitution, fines, probation, and community service. Mr. Schnipper is dedicated to protecting your future and reputation. Call 404-545-5845 for a free consultation or contact us online.