Topic: Criminal Defense
White-collar crime is often viewed as victimless. But that is not exactly true. Financial frauds such as embezzlement, money laundering, securities fraud, insurance fraud and tax evasion can have significant consequences for businesses, their clients and partners and consumers. That is why white-collar crime is often treated (and punished) as seriously as violent criminal conduct. Both state and federal law enforcement agencies routinely investigate reports of financial crime.
If you discover you are under investigation for a white-collar crime in New York, do not hesitate to contact a Manhattan criminal defense attorney from Protass Law PLLC. The best way to avoid charges is to work with an experienced and tenacious lawyer who will work to avoid charges or, if necessary, defend your rights and freedom in court.
To schedule a free and confidential evaluation of your case, contact us today at 212.455.0335.
How You May Learn You Are Under Investigation for a White-Collar Crime
You may not always know that you are the subject or target of a criminal investigation. Your name may have come up during an already ongoing investigation, but the government may not yet have made contact with you. Eventually, though, you will learn that your actions are being put under a microscope. Ways that you may learn you are under investigation include:
Contact by State or Federal Authorities
A state or federal law enforcement official may reach out to you in person, over the phone or through writing. In some cases, they may try to schedule an interview. But they might also just start asking questions. Though you may feel under pressure to do so, you do not have to answer any of their questions, and may opt to speak with a criminal defense lawyer before doing anything. Even if they try to tell you it’s easier if you comply with their requests, the best thing you can do for yourself is to end the conversation and call an attorney.
Receiving a Target Letter
A federal prosecutor may send you a letter informing you that you are a subject or target of a federal investigation. If you receive such a letter, call a lawyer immediately.
What to Do if You Are Being Investigated for a White-Collar Crime
If you should learn that you’re suspected of committing or are under investigation for having committed a white-collar crime, you need to contact an experienced and skilled New York criminal defense attorney at Protass Law PLLC. You should not speak with any investigators without legal counsel present. If you should misspeak or lie, your words could be used against you in court and could even constitute a stand-alone crime. You may think you are defending yourself or simply being honest when you know you have done nothing wrong. But you could be aiding a prosecutor in building a case against you.
Whether or not you have had the opportunity to speak with your attorney, do not destroy or alter anything that could be evidence. Do not delete emails or text messages. Do not shred paperwork. Do not get rid of, delete or change any physical documentation or electronic data that may be related to the investigation, even if you would do so in the normal course of business.
Contact a White Collar Crime Lawyer Today
Once you know state or federal authorities are scrutinizing your actions and finances, you need to speak with an attorney and determine the best way to protect yourself. Without an objective analysis of your individuals situation, there is no way to evaluate the jeopardy you may be in or the best course of action. Only an experienced lawyer from Protass Law PLLC can guide you through such a complex and risky situation while protecting your rights and preparing to fight for the best possible outcome.
To learn more about how a criminal defense attorney who handles white-collar offenses can help you, contact us today at 212.455.0335 to schedule a confidential, initial case consultation.
