Deceptive Schemes and Digital Crimes
As is true in many places, white-collar crimes have found their way into the corporate corridors and financial realms of Florida business. And just like any other state, Florida has stringent laws in place to combat offenses such as fraud, embezzlement, and identity theft.
In any situation where you believe you are being suspected of illegal corporate behavior, you need to have a full comprehension of white-collar crime in the context of Florida law. Having a skilled Clearwater criminal lawyer by your side means you will have someone advocating for you who is ready to dissect evidence and negotiate with prosecutors.
Elements and Consequences of White-Collar Crimes
Fraud, a ubiquitous white-collar crime, involves intentional deception to gain an unfair advantage. Often this is done to connect with personal monetary gain or to cause financial loss to another party. In Florida, the elements of fraud often include false representation or intent to deceive. From securities fraud to healthcare fraud, the state takes a comprehensive approach to combat a spectrum of fraudulent activities. Depending on the situation, the consequences for a fraud conviction in Florida can include substantial fines, restitution, and imprisonment.
When a person engages in misappropriation of funds entrusted to them by their employers, they could be charged with embezzlement. In Florida, the elements of embezzlement typically encompass the fraudulent conversion of property, entrusted to the offender, for personal use. Penalties for embezzlement convictions vary, with the severity determined by the amount embezzled.
Individuals facing an embezzlement or fraud charge should connect with a lawyer who is familiar with white-collar crime defense strategies. A seasoned lawyer can scrutinize financial records, challenge the evidence of intent, and explore possible defenses, such as lack of control or ownership, to build a robust defense against charges.
And of course, because we live in an era dominated by technology, identity theft has become a prevalent issue when it comes to white-collar crime. Florida law defines identity theft as the unauthorized use of someone else’s personal information for fraudulent purposes. The elements often include knowingly and willfully using personal information, such as social security numbers or credit card details, with the intent to defraud.
Early Indicators and Getting a Lawyer
Individuals under investigation for any type of white-collar crime may notice certain early indicators. For example, there may be heightened scrutiny from regulatory agencies or an employer. There is also the possibility of subpoenas or interviews by law enforcement. Do not ignore early indicators, seek legal counsel early in the process.
A Clearwater criminal lawyer who has a record of successfully defending individuals accused of corporate crimes has the skills required to investigate a case and build a defense strategy. Early intervention could also give your lawyer opportunities to negotiate with prosecutors, potentially avoiding charges or securing favorable plea deals.
Has it come to your attention that your corporate actions are under review? White-collar crimes continue to evolve as financial and technology sectors shift. If you suspect you will soon be facing allegations, talk to the experienced legal team at King Law Group. Reach out and schedule a free consultation.
