White collar crime is a very loosely defined category. The FBI uses the term to refer to nonviolent financial crimes, including securities fraud, embezzlement, money laundering and many more. As a result, defendants in white collar crime cases can range from cashiers to chief executive officers. Sometimes, an entire corporation can be the defendant.
For example, a major pharmaceutical firm recently agreed to pay $22 million to resolve charges it had illegally conspired with two foundations in a scheme to promote its products. Federal prosecutors allege that Biogen violated the False Claims Act in its promotion of two multiple sclerosis drugs.
Complex evidence
Evidence is important in all criminal prosecutions, and every criminal defense attorney must find a way to counter the evidence that the prosecution is using against their client. In cases involving white collar crime charges, the evidence can be especially complex.
Often, a white collar crime case boils down to an argument over balance sheets. The prosecution tries to convince the court that the ledgers show the defendant committed a crime. The defense tries to convince the court that the evidence is inconclusive.
Get experienced help
State and federal prosecutors are well trained in presenting complex evidence, and they have powerful resources at their disposal to make a case. For this reason, it’s especially important for those who have been charged with white collar crimes to seek out help from a defense attorney who has experience with this type of case.
A skilled criminal defense attorney can help the accused to understand their rights and legal options. Together, the accused and their attorney can develop a strategy that can weaken or destroy the prosecution’s case, defend their rights and protect their future.
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