White Collar Crimes

New York White Collar Attorney

Client-Focused & Results-Driven Legal Representation

White collar crimes are generally nonviolent offenses yet that does not lessen the penalties you could face if convicted of such an offense. These are crimes that are commonly committed to gain some financial gain or benefit through deceit or misrepresentation. 

They may be committed against one person, large groups of people, or state or federal agencies such as healthcare agencies or the IRS. Many laws in New York’s penal code define the activities and crimes that fall under the heading of white collar crime. These crimes can also be investigated and prosecuted at the federal level.

At Hamilton Clarke, LLP, we provide savvy and effective defense representation for individuals and corporate entities facing accusations of white collar misconduct. These types of cases can involve long investigations that collect and examine large quantities of documentation and evidence before charges are even filed. 

Enlisting our services as early in the process as possible is vital because it may lead to the avoidance of charges in the first place. As both state and federal defense attorneys, we can apply our decades of combined legal experience and dedication to providing outstanding legal service to your case.


White Collar Crime Cases in New York City

At Hamilton Clarke, LLP, we provide strategic defense against all types of white collar crimes, including but not limited to:

  • Embezzlement
  • Bribery
  • Credit card fraud
  • Forgery
  • Counterfeiting
  • Extortion
  • Identity theft
  • Healthcare fraud - Medicare/Medicaid fraud
  • Money laundering
  • Mail and wire fraud
  • Securities fraud
  • Computer fraud
  • Mortgage fraud
  • Investment scams, such as Ponzi schemes
  • Insurance fraud
  • Public corruption
  • Racketeering
  • Tax evasion

Each of these offenses is defined under state or federal law and charged accordingly. In cases where large numbers of victims have been involved, cases may be investigated by multiple state and/or federal agencies. These crimes can carry penalties involving stiff fines, jail or prison terms, restitution to victims, lengthy probation periods, and government seizure of assets. 

Those prosecuted at the federal level may involve investigations by the FBI, IRS, or other agencies that are carried on intensively for months or even years before leading to formal charges and court procedure. Those facing federal white collar crimes often result in more serious charges resulting in penalties subject to federal sentencing guidelines.

Aside from criminal penalties, white collar crimes can also lead to civil lawsuits by victims seeking damages. Because of the various consequences, it is vital that you have a skilled defender handling your case to help mitigate these consequences.

What is Fraud?

In New York, fraud is defined under the Penal Law section 155.05 as the intentional and deceptive act of wrongfully taking, obtaining or withholding property, services or money from someone through false pretenses, representations, or promises. Fraud can be committed in various ways, including by deceit, concealment, misrepresentation, or suppression of material facts.

Fraud can take many forms, such as identity theft, credit card fraud, insurance fraud, and investment fraud. The severity of the offense can vary depending on the amount of money or property involved, the intent of the perpetrator, and the harm caused to the victim.

In New York, fraud can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances of the case. The penalties for fraud can include imprisonment, fines, restitution, and probation.

Defending Against White Collar Crimes in New York City

At Hamilton Clarke, LLP, we specialize in providing strong legal defense for individuals facing white collar crime charges in New York City. Our experienced team of attorneys understands the complexities of these cases and is dedicated to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your situation.

What sets us apart:

  • Extensive knowledge of New York's white collar crime laws
  • Proven track record of successful case outcomes
  • Thorough investigation and preparation for each case
  • Customized defense strategies tailored to your unique circumstances
  • Clear and effective communication throughout the legal process

When facing white collar crime charges, it is crucial to have a skilled and experienced attorney by your side. Our team at Hamilton Clarke, LLP is committed to providing the highest level of legal representation and ensuring that your rights are protected at every step of the way.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your case with one of our experienced white collar crime attorneys.


 

Commonly Asked Questions

What are white collar crimes?

White collar crimes are nonviolent offenses that involve deceit or misrepresentation for financial gain or benefit. They can be committed against individuals, groups, or government agencies.

What types of white collar crimes are common in New York?

Common white collar crimes in New York include embezzlement, bribery, credit card fraud, forgery, counterfeiting, extortion, identity theft, healthcare fraud, money laundering, mail and wire fraud, securities fraud, computer fraud, mortgage fraud, investment scams, insurance fraud, public corruption, racketeering, and tax evasion.

What are the penalties for white collar crimes?

Penalties for white collar crimes can include stiff fines, jail or prison terms, restitution to victims, lengthy probation periods, and government seizure of assets. Federal white collar crimes often result in more serious charges and penalties subject to federal sentencing guidelines.

Can white collar crimes lead to civil lawsuits?

Yes, white collar crimes can also lead to civil lawsuits by victims seeking damages in addition to criminal penalties. It is important to have a skilled defender to mitigate the consequences.

What is fraud?

In New York, fraud is defined as the intentional and deceptive act of wrongfully taking, obtaining, or withholding property, services, or money through false pretenses, representations, or promises. It can be committed in various ways and can result in imprisonment, fines, restitution, and probation.

Are all Federal Crimes a Felony?

The United States Congress sets the penalties for all federal criminal acts. Thus, Congress decides which criminal acts are felonies. The State legislature makes those determinations for criminal acts that violate state law.

Understanding RICO Charges

Organized crime is among the strongest threats to the United States, explaining why the FBI is on high alert for RICO offenses. The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act is a federal law prohibiting various types of racketeering activity connected to an enterprise. Its purpose is to extinguish organized crime in the US. Under RICO, prosecutors can try all individuals involved in a corrupt organization at once rather individually and separately.

To convict a RICO defendant, prosecutors have the burden of proving the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

  • An enterprise existed
  • The enterprise affected interstate commerce
  • The defendant was associated with or employed by the enterprise
  • The defendant engaged in a pattern of racketeering activity
  • The defendant conducted or participated in the enterprise’s conduct by committing at least two acts of racketeering activity

“Racketeering activity” refers to a host of organized crimes including but not limited to:

  • Murder
  • Kidnapping
  • Gambling
  • Robbery
  • Bribery
  • Extortion
  • Counterfeiting
  • Embezzlement of union funds
  • Mail fraud
  • Wire fraud
  • Money laundering
  • Prostitution

As you can see, racketeering activity includes various white-collar offenses such as fraud and counterfeiting. However, you could only get RICO charges if your reported white-collar offense is connected to an enterprise. Regardless of what situation you’re in, our New York white collar criminal defense lawyers are prepared to build a powerhouse defense on your behalf.

Get Effective Legal Help from Hamilton Clarke, LLP

White collar crimes can be complex, confusing, and based on both paper and electronic trails that involve electronic transactions. Our firm understands these complexities and has represented many individuals and companies successfully in both state and federal courts. We are here to zealously protect your rights and help you seek the best possible outcome through hard work and a vigorous application of defense strategies.


Call (646) 603-0522 or fill out our online contact form today to get started on your defense.


 

Why People Choose Hamilton Clarke, LLP

  • State & Federal Cases

    We Handle Both State & Federal Cases and Are Not Afraid to Take a Case to Trial

  • Five Decades of Experience
    Our High-Level Trial Attorneys Bring Over 50 Years of Combined Legal Experience
  • Proven Track Record

    We Have Successfully Handled Over 10,000 Cases

  • Available 24/7
    Being Accessible to Meet Our Clients' Needs is Important to Us

Contact Hamilton Clarke, LLP Today!

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