Sarasota White Collar Crime Lawyer

Sarasota White Collar Crime Attorneys

White collar crimes can sometimes be seen as not so serious since they do not pose a violent threat. Nevertheless, in Florida, they are still very serious felonies, and convictions can result in harsh consequences. It’s critical that you get legal counsel from a knowledgeable and experienced Sarasota white collar crime lawyer as soon as possible if you’ve been accused of a white collar crime.

An experienced criminal defense lawyer in Sarasota can offer the expertise needed to build a strong defense, helping you navigate the complexities of the legal system and work toward a favorable outcome.

Why Choose Us?

Ruhl & Lux, P.A.’s legal staff has extensive experience representing clients in criminal situations. We have been able to develop the most effective defense tactics for your case because of our experience both inside and outside of the legal system. We can present you with the information you need to understand your case, rights, and possible outcomes. We can look at the details of your case and formulate the most appropriate defense.

White collar crime is governed by a wide range of intricate laws. Contact us today, our attorneys are capable of guiding you through the process with an up-to-date, thorough understanding of all relevant legal guidelines relating to your case.

White Collar Crimes

White collar crimes are defined by Florida as non-violent crimes unlike sex crimes, gun crimes, drug crimes, etc, that are usually conducted in business environments and are largely done for monetary benefit. Rather than using force or threats, white collar crimes are typically typified by some form of dishonesty that results in a breach of trust.

Two or more white collar crimes that share the same aim, accomplices, victim, outcomes, or methods of execution are considered aggravated white collar crimes. The crimes must be connected to one another and possess unique qualities; they cannot be independent occurrences. Penalties for more serious white collar offenses are more severe.

It must be proven that the defendant had an intent to deceive, among other things, when the case is brought to court. The prosecution must bring this evidence to show that the intent was to mislead in order to gain financial gain. The following are a few of the most frequent white collar crimes in Florida:

• Identity theft is the fraud act of using someone else’s name and personal information to get some sort of benefit, usually monetarily, such as a loan or line of credit.
• Embezzlement is the illegal act of taking money or property that has been entrusted to someone’s care without authorization.
• Money laundering is disguising funds obtained through illicit activities as coming from legal and legitimate sources of income.
• Fraud is intentionally deceiving a person or group with the purpose of gaining illegal profit or depriving a victim of their legal rights. This could entail falsifying facts and causing the victim to suffer some form of loss.

Penalties for White Collar Crimes

Penalties for white collar crimes are usually determined by the circumstances surrounding the occurrence. Typically, a court will consider the amount of damage done to the victims, the severity of the offense, and the type of crime being committed. White collar crimes can be prosecuted as misdemeanors or felonies, which will determine the penalties. The classifications for white collar crimes in Sarasota, FL are as follows:

• Second-degree misdemeanor: A conviction carries a maximum sentence of $500 in penalties and 60 days in prison.
• First-degree misdemeanor: A conviction carries a maximum sentence of one year in prison and a maximum fine of $1,000.
• Felony of the third degree: A conviction carries a maximum sentence of five years in jail and a maximum fine of $5,000.
• Felony in the second degree: A conviction carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000.
• Felony in the first degree: A guilty verdict carries a maximum sentence of 30 years or life in prison, as well as a $10,000 fine.
• First-degree felony is classified as an aggravated white collar crime: Those found guilty of aggravated white collar crimes will also be subject to extra fines of up to $500,000 or double the amount of their gain or loss, whichever is higher.

How an Attorney Can Help

A white collar lawyer focuses on defending people or businesses charged with financial crimes that don’t involve physical force. In addition to offering legal advice on strategy, arranging plea agreements, and representing clients in court, they offer legal guidance at every stage of a criminal investigation and trial. These lawyers have experience negotiating the complex legal system related to white collar crimes, complex financial transactions, and regulatory compliance.

FAQs About Sarasota, FL White Collar Crime Law

What Are the Top Three White Collar Crimes?

The top three white collar crimes are typically fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering. There are different types of fraud, such as tax fraud, credit card fraud, and securities fraud. It includes deception for the purpose of financial gain. Embezzlement is theft or misappropriation of funds. Money laundering is taking sums of money that have been obtained illegally and generating it to appear legal.

What Are the Penalties for White Collar Crimes?

Penalties for white collar crimes are based on the circumstances surrounding the occurrence, such as the crime being committed, the damage done to the victims, and the amount of money involved. Fines, seizure of assets, restitution (paying back money that was stolen), and incarceration are examples of penalties. The type and extent of the offense, as well as the defendant’s prior criminal history, all influence how harsh the punishment will be.

Are White Collar Crimes Prosecuted?

White collar crimes are, in fact, prosecuted. Organizations carry out investigations. Following the presentation of evidence to a grand jury, prosecutors file charges. In order to ensure accountability for financial misconduct, defendants may be tried in federal or state courts and, if found guilty, sentenced to jail time, fines, and reparations.

Who Are the Most Common Victims of White Collar Crime?

Typical victims of white collar crime include investors deceived by schemes, customers misled by identity theft schemes, companies harmed by insider trading or embezzlement, and workers who lose their jobs or savings as a result of corporate fraud or poor management. These crimes hurt people in many different industries, both financially and emotionally.

Contact Ruhl & Lux, P.A. Today

Securing your rights and developing a strong defense when charged with a white collar crime is imperative to securing your future. An attorney at Ruhl & Lux, P.A. can help you in this legal process. Contact us today for more information.