White collar crimes are nonviolent crimes committed for financial motivation by a person involved in business or government officials.

Examples of white collar crimes include, but are not limited to: fraud, forgery, bribery, money laundering, embezzlement, racketeering, insider trading, and blackmail.

The most common type of white collar crime in California is embezzlement. A person is guilty of embezzlement when they fraudulently convert (or steal) assets that have been entrusted to them. In other words, if you have been given money or property to hold for someone else, and you decide to keep that money or property for yourself, you are liable for embezzlement.

Fraud is also a common white collar crime committed in California. Fraudulent schemes involve purposeful deception in order to deprive the victim of a legal right. The key elements are that the defendant must know that they are lying, and that lie must induce or compel the victim to consent to giving you their property. The defendant must also intend to permanently deprive the victim of the property. For example, credit card fraud may include a scheme where a person pretends to own a legitimate business and tricks the victim into giving their credit card information in the false belief that they are purchasing something.

Depending on the nature of the crime and the value of the property wrongfully taken, white collar crimes can either be prosecuted as misdemeanors or felonies. In addition, under California Penal Code section 186.11, white collar crime offenders may be subject to harsh punishment enhancements if they are found to have been involved in a pattern of fraud or embezzlement related activities which resulted in losses of over $100,000. The “aggravated white collar crime enhancement,” as it is referred to, can add an additional one or two years in prison for the offender. If the losses are over $500,000, that can add an additional two, three, or five years in prison.

Defending white collar crimes can be complicated and require extensive investigation and knowledge. If you have been charged with a white collar crime, call the Champion Law Firm today to speak to an experienced criminal defense attorney. Consultations are always free.

If you’re looking for a Los Angeles White Color Crimes Attorney, contact us today.