Lexington White Collar Crime Lawyer

The Lexington criminal defense lawyers of the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC represent individuals facing allegations of fraud, embezzlement, or any other state or federal white collar crime. Offenses are classified as white collar crimes typically when they are non-violent and involve a professional or executive-level defendant. Frequently those charged with white collar crimes have been very successful in their chosen careers and have no prior contact with the criminal justice system.

Understanding White Collar Crimes in Lexington

White collar crimes encompass a range of non-violent offenses that typically involve deceit, concealment, or violation of trust, often for financial gain. These crimes can lead to severe legal consequences, including hefty fines and imprisonment.

Many times, white collar crimes are investigated by federal law enforcement agencies such as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), or Postal Inspectors, either alone or in conjunction with local authorities and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED).

Frequently, by the time you learn you are under investigation for a white collar crime, law enforcement has already spent months obtaining evidence, employing forensic accountants, and preparing their case against you. That's why you need an experienced Lexington white collar crime attorney.

With today's political and economic climate, white collar offenses are often prosecuted just as vigorously as other major felonies or violent street crimes. If you have discovered that you or a loved one is under investigation for a white collar crime, you owe it to yourself to immediately obtain the services of an experienced criminal defense lawyer. It is imperative that you consult with a Lexington criminal defense attorney prior to agreeing to cooperate in any sort of deposition or proffer agreement or make any statements or admissions to law enforcement.

Potential Consequences of White Collar Crimes in South Carolina

White collar crimes can have severe and far-reaching consequences, both for the individuals accused and for the victims involved. Understanding these potential repercussions is critical for anyone facing such charges. Below are specific consequences associated with various white collar crimes in South Carolina.

Criminal Penalties

• Fines: Fines can range from thousands to millions of dollars, depending on the severity of the offense and the amount of money involved.
• Restitution: Courts may order individuals convicted of white collar crimes to pay restitution to victims. This means compensating victims for their losses, which can be substantial, particularly in cases of fraud or embezzlement.
• Imprisonment: Depending on the nature of the crime, individuals may face imprisonment. For instance, federal charges related to fraud can result in several years in prison, with more serious offenses potentially leading to decades of incarceration.

Civil Liabilities

• Lawsuits: Victims of white collar crimes may pursue civil lawsuits seeking damages. This can result in significant financial burdens, including legal fees and potential settlements or judgments against the accused.
• Loss of Assets: In addition to fines and restitution, individuals may be required to forfeit assets acquired through illegal activities. This could include bank accounts, real estate, or other valuables.

Professional Consequences

• Loss of Professional Licenses: Many professions require licenses, and a conviction for a white collar crime can lead to disciplinary actions, including suspension or revocation of professional licenses. This is particularly relevant for accountants, financial advisors, and healthcare professionals.
• Employment Termination: Employers may terminate employees who are charged with or convicted of white collar crimes, particularly if the charges relate to their job duties. 
• Reputational Damage: Individuals may face social stigmatization, which can affect personal relationships and professional networks. High-profile cases can attract media attention, further damaging an individual's public image.

Long-Term Consequences

• Criminal Record: A conviction for a white collar crime results in a permanent criminal record, which can hinder future employment opportunities, affect the ability to secure loans, and limit access to certain licenses and permits.
• Impact on Future Opportunities: Individuals may find it challenging to pursue certain career paths, particularly those requiring trust and integrity, such as finance, law, or government positions.

Building a Defense Against White Collar Crime Charges

Our Lexington white collar crimes lawyers are committed to providing robust legal representation for clients facing charges. Defending against white collar crime charges requires a tailored approach. Some common defense strategies include:

• Lack of Intent: Many white collar crimes require proof of intent to commit the offense. Demonstrating that you did not intend to defraud or deceive can be a strong defense.
• Mistake of Fact: If you genuinely believed your actions were legal or appropriate, this can serve as a defense. For example, in cases of embezzlement, proving a misunderstanding of your authority to access funds may be effective.
• Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must provide sufficient evidence to support their case. Challenging the quality and quantity of the evidence against you can be a viable defense strategy.
• Coercion or Duress: If you were compelled to commit the crime under threat or coercion, this can serve as a defense.
• Negotiation and Plea Bargaining: In some cases, negotiating a plea deal may be in your best interest. An experienced attorney can help you navigate these discussions and potentially reduce the severity of the charges.

Get the legal support you need. Connect with our dedicated Lexington white collar crime lawyer for a free consultation. Call us at (803) 359-3301 or fill out our online form to start your defense today.

Blackmail Defense Services

Blackmail occurs more often than you might think. And you don't have to be a millionaire or a celebrity in order to find yourself the target of one of those schemes. One of the services that we offer is to advise and, if necessary, provide legal representation to those who believe that they are the target of blackmail or extortion.

The reason why these schemes can be successful is that people may be reluctant to go to the police for help. As a law office, when we are approached by a client with these sorts of concerns the consultation and the information we learn about the case remains confidential and privileged.

So what should you do if you are contacted by someone who threatens you with a blackmail attempt?

• Do not provide any more identifying information. Do not confirm your identity, contact information, or any personal or business information.
• Do not admit or acknowledge any wrongdoing, or any secrets. Phone calls with the blackmailer may be recorded.
• If you talk to the blackmailer, try to remember any details. Did they sound old or young? Have an accent? What type of background noise did you hear?
• Keep track of the dates and times of all calls, and keep copies of any e-mails or text messages.

The next step is to contact our office for a strictly confidential and private consultation. We will review your entire situation to determine the appropriate action. The exact action to be taken will depend on the type of threat made against you, as well as the location and level of sophistication of the blackmailer.

We also offer services to those who are being investigated for, or who have been arrested for the crime of blackmail or extortion in South Carolina. Pursuant to S.C. Code § 16-17-640 blackmail is a felony punishable by up to ten years in the South Carolina Department of Corrections. This is a very serious crime, and an arrest can result in lifetime consequences for the accused.

Contact our Lexington White Collar Crime Attorney Today

Need an experienced Lexington white collar crime lawyer? In addition to admission to practice in all South Carolina state courts, James Snell is admitted in the Federal District Court of South Carolina, the United States Tax Court, the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals and the United States Supreme Court.