They say white-collar crimes are not victimless. When you have been accused of defrauding others or committing another type of white-collar offense, your reputation could be in jeopardy. There are also criminal penalties you could face that could have a lasting impact on your life.
Make sure you take steps to protect your liberties and avoid the devastating consequences of a conviction. Contact a reputable Chino white-collar crime lawyer at the Simmrin Law Group for an initial consultation today to start discussing potential defenses that could be used to help you dodge the fallout of a conviction.
Common Types of White-Collar Crimes in Chino
White-collar crimes can take many forms since they include a wide array of offenses involving financial fraud of some kind. However, some of the most common types of offenses your white-collar crime lawyer in Chino, CA will be prepared to defend against include:
- Money laundering
- Embezzlement
- Tax evasion
Money Laundering
Ure California Penal Code §186.1 PC, you could be charged with money laundering when you are accused of completing transactions to facilitate or promote criminal activity or engaging in transactions with proceeds made from the commission of a criminal offense. Generally, money laundering is considered a wobbler crime. It can be prosecuted as a misdemeanor or a felony. Generally, the amount of money involved will determine whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony money laundering offense.
For the prosecutor to obtain a guilty verdict beyond a reasonable doubt, they will need to show that the amount of money laundered is greater than $5,000. If the amount laundered is less than $5,000, the state cannot move forward with the money laundering charges against you and may instead choose to charge you with a lesser offense, such as theft, larceny, or petty theft.
Embezzlement
Under California Penal Code Section 503 PC, you can be charged with embezzlement anytime you commit fraud by taking someone else’s property or funds. Embezzlement can also be charged as petty theft depending on the specific circumstances of your case. For the prosecutor to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, they will need to show that:
- The property owner entrusted property or money to the defendant.
- The property owner trusted the defendant to handle their funds or property.
- The defendant used the alleged victim’s property or money for their own benefit or interests.
- The defendant intended to deprive the property owner of their funds or property when they diverted it.
Tax Evasion
According to the California Revenue and Taxation Code Section 19706, anyone who files a false California state tax return or fails to file a California state tax return could be charged with tax evasion.
Under these tax laws, if you are found guilty of a misdemeanor tax evasion offense, you face up to $20,000 in fines and be ordered to spend up to one year in a San Bernardino county jail. However, if your tax evasion offense was charged as a felony, you could expect the same high fines but expect to spend up to one year at a California state prison.
For a free legal consultation with a white-collar crime lawyer serving Chino, call (310) 896-2723
What Happens After You Are Arrested for a White-Collar Crime
Immediately after your arrest for a white-collar crime, law enforcement officials may attempt to question you. Do not answer their questions or try to explain yourself.
Anything you say can be used by investigators as evidence against you at trial. You should contact your white-collar crime attorney in Chino, CA, immediately. They can then be by your side to address the facts and provide investigators with the information they need.
Arraignment
After being booked in a San Bernardino County jail, you will need to be arraigned. During the arraignment, bail will be set or denied depending on the specific circumstances of your case. It is more likely that the judge will be willing to grant bail if you are not a flight risk and have ties to the community.
However, you may be denied bail if you have the means to flee, are expected to flee, or are considered a risk to the community. Your Chino white-collar crime attorney can help prearrange bail so you can spend as little time incarcerated as possible before your trial. In the meantime, our team at Simmrin Law Group will begin working on your case.
We will review the evidence obtained against you by the state, file any necessary pretrial motions, and negotiate with the state to obtain a plea agreement or pretrial diversion program wherever possible. We will work tirelessly to prepare a powerful defense strategy for your trial.
Chino White-Collar Crime Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
Criminal Penalties of Chino White-Collar Crime Convictions
The consequences you could face if you are convicted of a white-collar crime are often severe. For example, someone charged with money laundering in the millions is more likely to face a longer prison sentence than someone charged with laundering $5,000. Additionally, the number of alleged victims involved in your case could have an impact on the penalties you will face.
In addition to jail time, prison time, and fines, you will likely be ordered to pay restitution to the alleged victims in your case. You may find your property or assets seized by the government in order to repay the alleged victims. In fact, the federal government can impose restitution orders that last for decades.
Furthermore, your conviction will also likely have a devastating impact on your professional reputation. Upon your release, this may make it difficult or impossible for you to continue in your pre-conviction profession and rebuild your life after your guilty verdict.
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Contact a Chino White-Collar Crime Attorney for Help Today
White-collar crime convictions could have severe criminal penalties and collateral consequences. It is vital to do everything in your power to clear your name so you can protect your reputation and get back to your life.
Are you ready to discuss potential defense strategies? If so, contact an aggressive Chino white-collar crime lawyer at the Simmrin Law Group for a confidential case evaluation. You can reach out via our secure contact form or my phone to get started as soon as today.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form