Defending Against White Collar Crime Charges in South Carolina
White collar crimes are nonviolent financial or fraud-related crimes committed by people in positions of trust, whether they are business officers or government officials. White collar charges often include financial crimes, such as fraud, embezzlement, and forgery. Because of this, many people view white collar crimes as nonviolent (and thus minor), but conviction can still land you in jail and cost you thousands of dollars in fines. Just as importantly, offenders often lose their careers, reputations, and positions of trust.
If you are facing charges, you need an aggressive, knowledgeable, and experienced white collar crime attorney in Greenville, SC. At Thomas J. Adducci Law Firm, our Greenville white collar crime lawyer has handled thousands of criminal cases, successfully defending clients against serious charges. After a decade in public service as a public defender, we have the grit, legal experience, and relentless energy to get the best possible outcome from your case.
Discuss your defense options with our Greenville white collar crime lawyer onlineor at (864) 479-4973 today.
White Collar Crime Penalties in South Carolina
White collar crimes can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the severity of the crime. Whether you’re facing misdemeanor or felony charges also depends on the type of white collar crime being alleged. For example, embezzlement of public funds is charged as a misdemeanor if the value of the property stolen is less than $1,000. However, if the value of the property is greater than $1,000, it is a felony, with harsher sentencing the larger the amount at stake.
Potential Consequences of White Collar Convictions
Restitution for financial damages caused
Loss of business license
Loss of government benefits
Loss of professional license
Community service
Probation
Loss of reputation
Loss of freedom
What Defenses Are Commonly Used in White Collar Crime Cases?
When facing charges for a white collar crime, the defense strategy can be crucial to the outcome of the case. White collar crimes, which typically involve non-violent, financially motivated offenses like fraud, embezzlement, or insider trading, often hinge on complex details and the intent behind actions. Several defenses can be employed depending on the specifics of the case:
Lack of Intent: One of the most common defenses is the argument that the accused did not have the intent to commit a crime. Many white collar crimes require proof that the individual knowingly and intentionally engaged in illegal activity. If it can be shown that there was no intent to deceive or defraud, the charges may be reduced or dismissed.
Insufficient Evidence: White collar crime cases often involve extensive documentation and financial records. If the prosecution’s evidence is circumstantial or weak, it may not meet the burden of proof required for a conviction. A skilled lawyer will scrutinize the evidence for gaps, inconsistencies, or errors that could undermine the prosecution’s case.
Entrapment: In some cases, the defense may argue that the defendant was coerced or induced by law enforcement to commit a crime that they would not have otherwise committed. Entrapment occurs when government agents essentially plant the idea of committing a crime in someone’s mind and then facilitate the commission of that crime.
Mistake of Fact: This defense applies when the defendant made an honest mistake that negates the criminal intent required for a white collar crime. For example, if a person genuinely believed that the funds they were using were theirs, they may be able to argue that there was no intent to embezzle.
Duress: In rare instances, a defendant may argue that they committed the crime under duress. This means they were forced to commit the illegal act due to threats of harm to themselves or others. While difficult to prove, this defense can be effective if there is compelling evidence to support it.
How Can a Lawyer Help with White Collar Crime Charges?
Facing charges for a white collar crime can be overwhelming, especially given the potential penalties, which can include significant fines, imprisonment, and a lasting impact on one’s career and reputation. Having an experienced white collar crime lawyer by your side is crucial for navigating these challenges. Here’s how a lawyer can assist in your defense:
Case Evaluation: A white collar crime lawyer will begin by conducting a thorough evaluation of the case. This involves reviewing the evidence, understanding the charges, and identifying any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. The lawyer will work to understand the full context of the situation, including any mitigating factors.
Developing a Defense Strategy: Based on the evaluation, the lawyer will develop a tailored defense strategy that addresses the specific circumstances of the case. Whether it’s challenging the evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, or preparing for trial, the defense strategy will be designed to achieve the best possible outcome for the client.
Negotiating with Prosecutors: In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate a plea deal with the prosecution. A skilled lawyer will negotiate on behalf of their client, aiming to reduce charges, minimize penalties, or potentially avoid a trial altogether. Plea negotiations require a deep understanding of the legal system and the ability to advocate effectively for the client’s interests.
Representation in Court: If the case goes to trial, having an experienced lawyer is essential. The lawyer will present the defense, cross-examine witnesses, and challenge the prosecution’s evidence. Effective courtroom representation can make the difference between conviction and acquittal.
Protecting Your Rights: Throughout the legal process, a white collar crime lawyer ensures that the client’s rights are protected. This includes advising the client on how to interact with law enforcement, ensuring that legal procedures are followed, and preventing any potential violations of constitutional rights.
Defending against white collar crime charges requires a strategic approach and a deep understanding of both the law and the specific details of the case. An experienced Greenville white collar crime lawyer will provide the guidance and advocacy needed to navigate these complex cases and achieve the best possible outcome.
Contact Our White Collar Crime Defense Attorney In Greenville
If you are facing charges for a white collar crime, you need an aggressive, knowledgeable, and experienced white collar crime attorney in Greenville, SC. At Thomas J. Adducci Law Firm, our Greenville white collar crime lawyer has handled thousands of criminal cases and has successfully defended clients against serious charges. We have a proven track record of success and we are ready to help you.
Contact our Greenville white collar crime lawyer at (864) 479-4973 today to schedule a free consultation.
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