For the most part, white-collar crimes are non-violent crimes that involve the theft of money. Because these crimes may not be violent, you may assume that their consequences are not as harsh as other crimes. This is not the case. White-collar crimes are taken very seriously in Georgia and can carry serious penalties. Read on to learn more about white-collar crimes in Georgia, what they entail, and what to do if you are facing charges.
What Constitutes a White-Collar Crime?
“White-collar crimes” refer to a number of different crimes. Most of these crimes involve theft of some sort. Some of the most common crimes that are considered “white-collar” include:
- Ponzi schemes: Ponzi schemes, also known as “pyramid schemes,” continuously recruit people and then use the money from the most recent investors to pay the company’s earliest investors.
- Extortion: Extortion involves blackmailing or threatening an individual and offering silence in exchange for money.
- Embezzlement: This is when an individual that a company trusts with funds misappropriates or underhandedly manages those funds for their own financial gain.
- Corporate fraud: Companies commit corporate fraud when they falsify information in order to save or make money.
- Bankruptcy fraud: This is when an individual lies to the bankruptcy court either by hiding or withholding certain information when filing for bankruptcy.
- Tax evasion: This occurs when someone avoids paying the taxes they owe. This can be done by individuals, corporations, and trusts.
- Money laundering: Money laundering involves illegally obtaining money and concealing its origins by passing it through a complex sequence of transfers and transactions.
What are the Penalties for White-Collar Crimes in Georgia?
White-collar crimes are taken seriously. As a result, their consequences can be severe. If you are charged with committing any of the above crimes, you can face:
- Heavy fines
- Supervised release
- Imprisonment
- Forfeitures
- Restitution
- Community confinement
- Home detention
What Should I do if I am Facing Charges?
If you are facing charges for a white-collar crime, you will need the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney. Our firm will explore all possible avenues of defense and work to lower your charges.
Reach out today to speak with a team of skilled and knowledgeable attorneys. We are here to advocate for you and walk you through your criminal law matters every step of the way.
Contact Our Experienced Firm
Our firm understands that people make mistakes. We are here to fight for you throughout all of your criminal law matters. Do not hesitate to reach out to our firm today and speak with an experienced and dedicated attorney.