White-Collar Crime / Fraud

While criminologist and sociologist Edwin Sutherland originally defined white-collar crime in 1939 as "a crime committed by a person of respectability and high social status in the course of his occupation," the term is now generally used to describe almost any criminal offense committed for financial gain. Most people believe that white-collar offenses only apply to high-level executives accused of multi-million dollar wrongdoing, but the truth is that a wide variety of acts committed by individuals in various positions can fall under the umbrella of white-collar crime.

Another common misconception about people accused of these offenses is that alleged offenders typically walk away with little more than a slap on the wrist. Prosecutors in Florida aggressively seek harsh criminal penalties in these cases, and a conviction can mean being ordered to serve time in jail or prison, be on probation, and be required to pay large sums of money in fines and restitution.

Lawyer for Fraud and White-Collar Crimes in Pensacola, FL

Were you arrested or do you think that you could possibly be under investigation for allegedly committing a white-collar offense in Florida? Make sure that you have legal counsel before you say anything to the investigators handling your case.

John Terrezza of Terrezza Law is a criminal defense attorney in Pensacola who represents clients in Milton, Pensacola Beach, Gulf Breeze, and many other surrounding areas. Call (850) 764-5291 or complete an online contact form right now to receive a complete review of your case during a free, confidential consultation.

Overview of White-Collar Crimes in Escambia County

Types of Fraud Crimes in Florida

Several different kinds of economic fraud or theft crimes are considered white-collar offenses in Florida. Many of these criminal actions involve alleged offenders obtaining money, property, or other items of value by misleading alleged victims.

Some of the types of white-collar offenses that Terrezza Law handles include:

Florida Racketeering Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act (RICO);
Embezzlement;
Medicare Fraud;
Healthcare Fraud;
Money Laundering;
Pawnbroker Transaction Fraud; and
Wire Fraud.

Other Issues for People Accused of White-Collar Crimes in Pensacola

The possible imprisonment and fines associated with a conviction in criminal court are not the only concern of people accused of white-collar offenses in Florida. In addition to the criminal penalties sought by state prosecutors, some of the other ways that fraud or other economic crime allegations can affect an alleged offender include:

Civil Liability — The state, the alleged victims, or both may be able to bring a civil action against an alleged offender. Lawsuits are usually filed to seek financial restitution for economic damages resulting from the alleged misconduct. In some cases, the government may also be able to seize an alleged offender’s property through asset forfeiture.

Administrative Actions — Government agencies may seek sanctions through administrative proceedings. These differ from civil actions in that administrative proceedings are typically handled by an administrative law judge (ALJ) who can impose any one of a number of sanctions that may include civil monetary penalties, disgorgement, or other penalties.

Professional Licensing Issues — Depending on the profession of the alleged offender, they could be subject to having their licenses restricted, suspended, or revoked. Most licensing boards will hold hearings to review the allegations and determine the possible penalties.

Find a Lawyer for White-Collar Crimes in Pensacola, Florida

If you were arrested or believe that you might be the target of an investigation for alleged fraud or economic crimes in Florida, you will want to immediately seek legal representation. Terrezza Law defends clients in communities throughout Escambia County and Santa Rosa County.

Pensacola criminal defense attorney John Terrezza not only fights to get criminal charges reduced or dismissed, but he helps clients with appeals, expunction, and other forms of post-conviction relief. You can have our lawyer evaluate your case by calling (850) 764-5291 today to schedule a free consultation.