Greenville, SC While Collar Crimes Attorneys

Charged With a White Collar Crime? Call (864) 668-1661!

White collar crimes are serious offenses normally prosecuted at the federal level. They are generally associated with financial loss and prosecutors can charge them as either a misdemeanor or a felony. As such, a conviction of a white collar crime can carry heavy penalties and consequences that can damage your life and future. 

If you or a loved one faces white collar crime charges in Greenville, South Carolina, you need an experienced attorney on your side to protect your rights and help you obtain the most favorable outcome possible.

At Fedalei & Reid Law, LLC, our Greenville SC white collar crimes attorneys have nearly 20 years of combined legal experience assisting people throughout our area with their complex and pressing criminal defense matters. 

Contact us to request a free consultation with our Greenville white collar crime defense attorneys by calling (864) 668-1661. Se Habla Español!

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What Is a White Collar Crime?

White collar crimes are nonviolent offenses that are committed in a business setting. They are usually associated with fraud and deceit and are often associated with business transactions. 

Types of White Collar Crimes We Handle

Our firm has experience defending clients against white collar crimes, including:

• Bribery
• Embezzlement
• Tax evasion
• Money laundering
• Securities fraud
• Identity theft
• Mail fraud
• Credit card fraud
• Wire fraud
• Forgery
• Counterfeiting
• Identity theft
• Extortion
• Money laundering
• Insurance fraud
• Health care fraud
• Public corruption
• Tax evasion
• Offering false instruments
• Bank fraud
• Credit card fraud
• Internet fraud

Other offenses can fall into the category of white collar crimes as well. Reach out to an attorney right away to discuss your case if federal or state authorities have arrested you and are trying to prosecute you for a white collar offense.

What Are Possible Penalties for White Collar Crimes?

Penalties for white-collar crimes can vary depending on:

• The specific offense and circumstances surrounding the case
• The amount of money involved
• The level of harm caused
• The jurisdiction where the crime occurred
• The discretion of the judge imposing sentencing

Here are some possible penalties for white-collar crimes:

• Fines: White-collar criminals may face substantial fines as a penalty for their offenses. These fines can range from thousands to millions of dollars, depending on the severity of the crime and the financial harm caused.
• Restitution: Courts may order individuals convicted of white-collar crimes to pay restitution to victims to compensate them for their losses. This can include repaying stolen funds, reimbursing defrauded investors, or compensating victims for other financial damages.
• Probation: Instead of or in addition to incarceration, individuals convicted of white-collar crimes may be sentenced to probation. During probation, they are required to comply with certain conditions set by the court, such as regular reporting to a probation officer, financial monitoring, and restrictions on employment or travel.
• Forfeiture: In cases where ill-gotten gains are identified, courts may order the forfeiture of assets obtained through white-collar crime. This can include seizing property, bank accounts, vehicles, and other assets acquired with the proceeds of criminal activity.
• Incarceration: Depending on the severity of the offense, white-collar criminals may face imprisonment. Prison sentences can range from months to decades, particularly for serious offenses such as securities fraud, insider trading, or large-scale Ponzi or pyramid schemes.
• Loss of Professional Licenses: Individuals convicted of white-collar crimes may lose their professional licenses or be prohibited from working in certain industries. This can have long-lasting consequences for their careers and livelihoods.
• Civil Lawsuits: In addition to criminal penalties, white-collar criminals may face civil lawsuits from victims seeking further restitution or damages. These lawsuits can result in additional financial penalties and legal consequences.

Since each case is unique, you need to consult an experienced criminal defense lawyer to understand the potential consequences of the white-collar criminal charges you face.

Who Investigates White Collar Crimes in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, several agencies investigate white collar crimes at the state and local levels.

These include:

• South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED): SLED is the primary state-level agency that investigates white collar crimes in South Carolina. It has a specialized unit called the "White Collar Crime Unit" that focuses on these types of offenses.
• South Carolina Attorney General's Office: The state Attorney General's Office has a Securities Division that investigates and prosecutes securities fraud and other related white collar crimes.
• South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs: This agency investigates consumer fraud, identity theft, and other white collar crimes that target consumers.
• Local Law Enforcement Agencies: Depending on the jurisdiction and nature of the crime, local police departments and sheriff's offices may also investigate white collar crimes.

In addition to these state and local agencies, federal agencies such as the FBI, SEC, and IRS may also investigate white collar crimes in South Carolina if the offenses fall under their jurisdiction.

In some cases, state and federal agencies may work together on investigations and prosecutions.

How Can You Fight White Collar Crime Charges?

White collar crimes are often associated with financial loss, and thus, the prosecution will be required to prove that a defendant caused financial loss to another party. However, the burden of proof is not as high as it is for other crimes, such as murder or rape.

When prosecuting a white collar crime, the prosecutor does not have to prove that the defendant intended to cause financial loss to another party. The defendant may have had good intentions, but poor judgment.

If you are facing white collar crime charges, the most appropriate course of action is to:

• Hire a qualified criminal defense attorney who specializes in white collar crime cases. They can provide you with legal guidance and representation.
• Understand the charges against you and the potential consequences.
• Gather relevant documents and evidence that may help your case.
• Be honest with your attorney about the circumstances surrounding the charges.
• Follow your attorney's advice and attend all required court appearances.
• Consider negotiating a plea bargain, if appropriate, based on your attorney's recommendations.

Remember, hire proper legal representation when facing criminal charges. Attempting to fight the charges on your own or ignoring the situation can lead to severe consequences.

What Are Possible Defenses to White Collar Crimes?

When facing white collar crime charges, you need to work with an attorney to build a strong defense.

Some possible defense options your attorney may explore include:

• Lack of intent: Arguing that the defendant did not have criminal intent and any wrongdoing was due to mistake, negligence, or lack of knowledge rather than an intentional scheme to defraud.
• Entrapment: Claiming the defendant was induced or coerced into committing the crime by law enforcement using persuasion or fraudulent representation.
• Incapacity: Arguing the defendant lacked the mental capacity to have intentionally committed fraud due to mental illness or defect.
• Duress: Claiming the defendant was compelled to commit the crime under threat, coercion, or force from another.
• Insufficient evidence: Challenging whether prosecutors have met the burden of proof to establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Puffery: In securities fraud cases, arguing that alleged misrepresentations were mere "puffery" or corporate optimism rather than material false statements.
• Advice of counsel: Claiming reliance on advice from legal counsel that the conduct in question was legal.
• Statute of limitations: Asserting that the time period for bringing charges has expired.

The availability and applicability of defenses depend heavily on the specific facts and circumstances of your case. Consult a qualified defense attorney in Greenville, SC to discuss your options.

Why Choose Fedalei & Reid Law, LLC to Help You Defend Against White Collar Crime Charges in Greenville, SC

Choosing Fedalei & Reid Law, LLC to defend against white-collar crime charges in Greenville offers several potential advantages:

• Knowledge and Experience: Our attorneys have in-depth knowledge and extensive experience in white-collar crime defense. We understand the relevant laws, regulations, and legal strategies needed to effectively defend against charges such as fraud, embezzlement, or insider trading.
• Personalized Representation: As a small criminal defense law firm in Greenville, we’re able to offer more personalized attention to our clients compared to larger firms. This means that you may receive individualized representation tailored to your specific circumstances and needs.
• Local Knowledge and Connections: Fedalei & Reid Law, LLC has a law office in Greenville, SC. As such, we have invaluable knowledge of the local legal system, including the practices and procedures of the courts and prosecuting agencies. We have also established relationships with local judges, prosecutors, and other legal professionals. Our professional connections and local knowledge can help negotiate plea deals and navigate the legal process.
• Client-Centered Approach: Our attorneys prioritize client communication and involvement throughout the legal process. We work closely with clients to understand their goals, concerns, and priorities, and keep them informed at every stage of the case.
• Track Record of Success: Over the years, we have achieved an impressive track record of success in defending clients against white-collar crimes and other criminal charges. Read some of our client reviews as reassurance about our firm's capabilities and effectiveness.
• Resourcefulness and Creativity: White-collar crime cases often involve complex legal and financial issues. The lawyers at Fedalei & Reid Law, LLC have a reputation for being resourceful and creative in developing defense strategies to challenge evidence, discredit witnesses, and advocate for our clients' rights.

Contact a White Collar Crime Defense Attorney in Greenville, SC

If you face white collar crime charges in Greenville or anywhere in South Carolina, you need the help of an experienced attorney to improve your odds of success.

At Fedalei & Reid Law, LLC, our white collar crime attorneys in Greenville have years of experience in defending clients against white collar crime charges. Our firm has handled numerous cases, and we have the skills and resources necessary to help you fight your charges. To learn more about your rights and options and to begin building a solid defense, contact our white collar crime defense attorneys in Greenville at (864) 668-1661 or contact us online today for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation.