A Trusted Williamsville White Collar Crimes Defense Lawyer

Sometimes, even the most diligent person can find themselves facing a criminal charge. If you believe that you are the subject of an investigation or have been accused of a financial crime, it is normal to feel confused, scared and unsure of what to do next. However, whatever your situation, you do not have to face it alone.

I am Rob Singer, and I have more than two decades of experience in criminal law. Now, I have dedicated my Williamsville firm, Singer Legal PLLC, to criminal defense. I believe that everyone deserves an experienced and passionate advocate when their freedom and future are at stake. If you suspect that you are under investigation for a complex financial crime, do not wait for an indictment. The sooner I get involved, the sooner I can start protecting your rights and help you understand your options.

Understanding Financial Crimes

A white collar crime is a nonviolent offense that is committed for financial gain. These are typically acts of deceit, concealment or a breach of trust. Often, these crimes are carried out in a business or professional setting. White collar crimes range widely in severity and complexity, but they all carry the potential for life-altering consequences.

White collar crime cases can be brought as either state or federal charges. State charges are prosecuted by local district attorneys and follow New York state laws. Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. attorney’s office and involve a violation of a federal crime.

Comprehensive Representation For White Collar Crimes

As a white collar crime defense attorney, I represent clients accused of any type of financial crime brought in state or federal court. Some of the most common cases I handle include:

• Embezzlement: Embezzlement involves the fraudulent conversion of assets by a person to whom the assets have been entrusted such as an employee stealing money from their employer.
• Money laundering: This is the process of concealing the origins of illegally obtained money, typically by running it through a series of banking or business transactions designed to make it look legitimate.
• Identity theft: Identity theft occurs when someone knowingly uses another person’s identifying information such as their Social Security number or date of birth, without permission to commit a crime, often fraud.
• Fraud: Fraud crimes usually involve a scheme to unlawfully obtain money or assets owned by a person or an institution.
• RICO violations: The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) is a powerful federal law primarily used to prosecute individuals involved in an ongoing pattern of criminal activity, especially in organized crime.

With more than 20 years in the criminal justice system, I have the experience and knowledge necessary to challenge complex financial evidence and protect your future.

What Are The Different Types Of Fraud Charges?

Fraud is one of the broadest categories of white collar crime. Essentially, it includes any intentional misrepresentation or deception made for personal or financial gain. Examples of fraud crimes can include:

• Bank fraud: Bank fraud targets financial institutions. It can involve applying for loans using false information or creating schemes to steal deposits.
• Wire fraud: Wire fraud covers any deceptive scheme carried out using electronic communications such as sophisticated phishing scams or misleading investment pitches sent via email.
• Health care fraud: Health care fraud involves deceptive practices to obtain payment from health insurance providers or government programs like Medicare.

A key element in many fraud cases is the use of false statements. This offense occurs when a person knowingly and willingly makes an untrue statement or representation in a formal or official context. Examples include lying on a loan application, tax return or during a deposition. Proving intent to deceive is often the focal point in any fraud case.

Understanding The Seriousness Of Federal Financial Crime Charges

Federal white collar prosecutions are extremely serious. Often, convictions result in penalties that far exceed those in state court. Depending on the nature of the accusations, a number of powerful federal agencies investigate these crimes. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) can all investigate white collar crimes.

By the time federal prosecutors seek an indictment, they have usually compiled substantial evidence, including:

• Financial records
• Emails
• Phone transcripts
• Witness testimony

Federal agencies almost always conduct lengthy investigations that can last for months or even years. This means they are ready to present what they believe is a solid case.

The federal system has a very high conviction rate, making early intervention and a forceful defense absolutely necessary. If you are facing federal financial crime charges, you should know that you are up against the full power and resources of the United States government. An experienced federal defense lawyer can craft a formidable defense and challenge every piece of the evidence used to indict you.

What Should You Do If You Believe You Are Under Investigation For A White Collar Crime?

If you believe you are under investigation for a white collar crime, it is crucial to secure legal counsel immediately. Do not speak to any federal or state investigator without a lawyer present. Investigators are trained to ask questions that encourage you to inadvertently incriminate yourself. In addition, they are not required to tell you the full scope of their investigation.

If a criminal defense attorney can get involved as soon as an investigation is underway, there is time to intervene before charges are filed. I can often communicate directly with investigators and prosecutors, clarify facts, and ensure that your rights are being protected before the formal charging process even begins. Early involvement can be the difference between a dismissed investigation and a serious felony charge. A conviction can result in a lengthy prison sentence and substantial fines.

Consult A New York White Collar Crime Defense Attorney

The moment you suspect there is an investigation or you are charged with a financial crime, your freedom is on the line. I can help you understand complicated criminal charges, clearly explain your legal options and develop a sophisticated defense strategy designed to protect your future and your liberty. Initial consultations are available by appointment. You can call Singer Legal PLLC at 716-222-3288 or send me a message through my website to schedule a consultation.