Scottsdale White Collar Crime Lawyer

If you’ve been arrested for a crime, you’re likely feeling scared for your future. Our Scottsdale white-collar crime lawyers can help.

Since 2015, our Scottsdale criminal defense lawyers at The Law Offices of Brandon White have fought for our clients’ best possible outcomes. We will stand by you through every part of the legal process.

Reach out today and get started with a consultation.

What Are White Collar Crimes in Scottsdale?

White-collar crime typically refers to nonviolent crimes that are usually financial in nature. In Arizona, white-collar crimes can include:

• Fraud.
• Embezzlement.
• Money laundering.
• Forgery.
• Identity theft.
• Bribery.

Being charged with any of these crimes is scary. You’re likely worried about the potential penalties if you’re convicted. Potential penalties depend on the specific circumstances of your case. For example, the penalties for fraud schemes in Arizona will be different from those for embezzlement.

What Are the Penalties for White Collar Crimes in Scottsdale?

Most financial crimes in Arizona are charged as felonies. The severity of the felony, though, depends on the type of crime committed. Some examples include:

Class 2 Felonies

This is typically reserved for white-collar crimes where there are large financial losses or that involve large-scale fraud or money laundering operations. Class 2 felonies are punishable by up to 12.5 years in prison and up to $150,000 in fines.

It’s important to note that if there are prior convictions, sentences may be longer.

Class 3 Felonies

This is usually used in forgery, identity theft, and some theft cases. It can include a punishment of up to 8.75 years in prison.

Class 4 Felonies

Some types of identity theft and fraud, as well as bribery charges. Punishment can include up to 3.75 years in prison.

Class 5 and 6 Felonies

Class 5 and Class 6 felonies are considered the least severe types of felonies. You may face these charges with crimes like credit card fraud and embezzlement of smaller amounts of money. They can be punishable by anywhere from four months to two years in prison.

Do you always go to jail for a felony? Not necessarily, as it will depend on the case itself, the strength of the prosecution’s evidence, and whether there is a prior criminal history.

Additional Impacts of Felony Charges

Fines and jail time are the most serious consequences of a felony conviction, but there are many additional impacts on your life. These can include:

• A criminal record.
• Restitution.
• Probation.
• Loss of professional licenses.
• Impacts on immigration status, job opportunities, and housing.
• Impacts on child custody and visitation rights.
• Social stigma.

When applicable, your Scottsdale white-collar crime attorney will fight for a lesser charge whenever possible.

How Can a White Collar Crime Lawyer in Scottsdale Help With Your Case?

At The Law Offices of Brandon White, we’re committed to delivering true five-star service to our clients. We understand how intimidating and stressful the legal process can be when you’re facing criminal charges, and we’re here to provide you with peace of mind.

We can:

• Investigate the charges and evidence against you.
• Look for any violations of your rights during the arrest or questioning process.
• Build a strategic defense.
• Represent you in court.
• Advocate for a lesser sentence when necessary.

We will never leave you in the dark about what’s happening with your case. 

What Evidence Can Be Used Against You in White Collar Crime Cases?

To convict you of a white-collar crime, the prosecution will need to prove that you not only committed a crime but that you did so knowingly and intentionally. To do so, they may use evidence like:

• Witness testimony.
• Victim statements.
• Police reports.
• Forensic evidence.
• Financial transaction records.
• Digital communications, such as texts or emails.
• Video footage.
• The defendant’s own admissions during arrest or questioning.

Our lawyers will analyze every piece of evidence that will be used against you. We will also investigate how the evidence was gathered, checking for any unlawful searches or seizures.

What Defenses Are Common in White Collar Crime Cases?

The specific defense your lawyer will use depends on your case. However, some common defenses for white-collar crimes include:

• Lack of knowledge: In some cases, a person may unknowingly play a part in a larger fraud or embezzlement scheme.
• Lack of intent: Honest mistakes or actions taken without criminal intent.
• Lack of evidence: The burden of proof is on the prosecution.
• Entrapment or under duress: You were forced into your actions.

Your lawyer will build your defense using evidence like character witnesses, forensics, and digital communications.

What Should You Do If You Are Arrested for a White Collar Crime?

Being arrested is a frightening experience. It’s important, though, to stay calm during the process. The following steps can help protect your defense:

• Do not argue with police officers or try to resist arrest.
• Do not try to explain your side of the story.
• Ask to speak with a lawyer.
• Invoke your right to remain silent.
• Comply with the booking process.
• Do not attempt to delete or destroy evidence.
• Follow any restrictions placed on you by the court, such as the terms of your bail.
• Follow your attorney’s legal advice.

Your lawyer will guide you through the next steps of your case.

Contact a White Collar Crime Attorney in Scottsdale Today

If you are facing criminal charges, your next moves are critical for your future. The legal team at The Law Offices of Brandon White is here to help you take on the legal process. We will fight for the best possible outcome for your case.

Reach out today to schedule a consultation. We will review your case and help you understand the next legal steps.