Pearland White Collar Crime Lawyer
Historically, “white-collar crimes” meant crimes committed by certain members of the elite financial classes. Now the term more broadly refers to nonviolent financial crimes. Texas prosecutors and the federal government especially are making white-collar criminal prosecution more of a priority than ever. They are always looking to “make an example” of a businessman caught “cheating” to prove that they are standing up to wealthy criminals. In reality, small business owners and other middle-class actors bear the brunt of these prosecutions.
Keith B. French Law, PLLC prides itself on bringing elite-quality legal representation to everyday Americans. The Firm represents defendants charged with all manner of financial crimes, regardless of their circumstances. Whether you are a prominent member of a financial institution, a political official, or a small business owner, Keith B. French Law is ready to come to your aid. The Firm’s Pearland white collar crime lawyer has extensive experience defending clients against all manner of criminal charges and has years of trial experience in both private and government practice. He will bring that knowledge and experience to bear in defending against your white-collar criminal charges, protecting your rights and your freedom along the way.
Dedicated Service to Clients Facing All Types of White Collar Charges
There is no statute prohibiting “white-collar crimes.” It is an umbrella term referring to a variety of financial crimes. The U.S. Department of Justice considers white-collar crime to encompass all nonviolent, illegal activities involving deceit, manipulation, concealment, or breach of trust. Many of these crimes involve complex sets of facts requiring a deep understanding of financial matters, state and federal laws, and a variety of regulations. In many cases, financial experts will be brought in as witnesses or consultants to help interpret data and documents.
The seasoned white-collar criminal defense lawyer at Keith B. French Law has spent years in both private practice and as an Assistant United States Prosecutor, gaining essential experience in white-collar criminal investigations and in learning how the government operates generally. The white-collar defense law firm Keith B. French Law represents clients under investigation for or facing charges including, but not limited to:
- Consumer fraud
- Embezzlement
- Bribery
- Securities fraud
- Insurance fraud
- Identity theft
- Check fraud
- Mortgage fraud
- Money laundering
- Bank fraud
- Cybercrimes
- Mail fraud
- Perjury
- Wire fraud
- Tax evasion
Conspiracy
One common element in white-collar cases is conspiracy charges. Conspiracy is chargeable under state and federal law. Adding conspiracy charges ties a defendant to all of the other defendants in the alleged conspiracy, and makes each party liable for all of the actions (and criminal conduct) of every other alleged participant. Conspiracy charges can render any minor player liable for the worst actions of the worst participants, making everyone susceptible to the harshest charges and penalties.
To show conspiracy, the government must generally demonstrate that there was (a) an agreement, (b) between two or more parties, (c) to pursue some unlawful purpose, and (d) some overt act was committed in furtherance of the criminal conspiracy. A given defendant must have had knowledge of and intent to join the conspiracy, although they need not know the full extent of the conspiracy to be charged as a part. Avoiding conspiracy charges is one of the most important elements of any white-collar criminal defense.
Federal Investigations
The federal government will often conduct lengthy investigations before bringing any actual criminal charges. During the course of these investigations, a number of individuals connected to the alleged scheme or crime will be looped in. Individuals may simply be “witnesses” with valuable information, or they may be a potential target for future charges. If you are contacted as part of a federal investigation, the government feels no pressure to tell you which category you fall into.
For that reason, it is important to get a qualified white-collar lawyer on your side. While cooperating with an investigation may be the best course of action, it’s important to have someone in your corner who knows your rights and who understands how federal investigators operate. Never agree to interview with the FBI or other federal criminal investigators without at least consulting with a white-collar criminal lawyer first. Do not keep yourself in the dark and risk your freedom. Call Keith B. French Law if you are involved in any sort of federal criminal investigation, in any capacity.
Keith B. French Law is Ready to Represent You Against Pearland White Collar Charges
If you have been charged with a white-collar crime in Pearland, contact Keith B. French Law, PLLC. The Firm represents clients charged with state and federal crimes, misdemeanors and felonies alike. Attorney Keith B. French makes sure everyone gets their day in court. The Firm represents defendants charged with all manner of financial crimes or subject to state or federal investigations. Call Keith B. French Law today for a free consultation and find out how the Firm can protect your freedom, your finances, and your future.
