White Collar Crimes
Michigan White Collar Crimes Defense
White collar crimes are often complex, highly technical cases that involve financial records, digital data, business practices, and lengthy government investigations. These charges can be brought at either the state or federal level and may result in severe penalties, including prison time, restitution, asset forfeiture, and long-term damage to your career and reputation. Having experienced legal representation early in the process is critical.
Below is an overview of the most common white collar offenses and how a strong defense can protect your future.
Fraud
Fraud cases involve allegations of intentionally deceiving others for financial gain. This can include credit card fraud, check fraud, investment fraud, mortgage fraud, and more. These cases often rely on electronic records, financial data, and testimony from investigators or corporate compliance teams.
Embezzlement
Embezzlement occurs when someone is accused of misappropriating funds entrusted to them—often in the workplace. Defending these cases requires analyzing accounting records, internal controls, access logs, and whether the alleged conduct was intentional or part of a misunderstanding.
Identity Theft
Identity theft allegations can arise from accusations of using another person’s information for financial transactions, benefits, or online activity. Defense strategies may involve examining digital evidence, access to devices, and proving the accused was not the person who executed the alleged activity.
Forgery
Forgery involves altering or creating documents to deceive others, such as signatures, checks, or financial forms. These cases often rely on handwriting experts, forensic document analysis, and digital metadata.
Money Laundering
Money laundering charges accuse someone of concealing the source of illegally obtained funds. These cases may involve wire transfers, business accounts, cryptocurrency, shell companies, or allegations tied to larger criminal investigations.
Tax Evasion
Tax evasion involves accusations of intentionally underreporting income, falsifying records, or avoiding tax obligations. Many tax-related cases begin with audits and escalate into criminal investigations. Defense focuses on accounting review, intent analysis, and negotiations with tax authorities.
Securities Fraud
Securities fraud includes insider trading, market manipulation, misrepresentations, and violations of state or federal investment regulations. These cases often involve complex financial instruments and require extensive review of communications, filings, and trading activity.
Insurance Fraud
Insurance fraud allegations can stem from claims involving auto insurance, health insurance, property damage, or business losses. Defense often involves analyzing claim records, witness statements, and the insurer’s investigative process.
Healthcare Fraud
Healthcare fraud includes billing fraud, false claims, kickbacks, unlicensed practice, and prescription-related schemes. These cases frequently involve federal agencies such as the DOJ, FBI, and HHS.
Wire Fraud
Wire fraud is a broad federal charge involving any scheme that uses electronic communications—email, text, internet, or phone—to obtain money or property. Defense requires deep review of digital records and government investigative methods.
Bribery
Bribery cases involve allegations of offering or accepting something of value in exchange for influence or action. These cases often include covert recordings, financial records, and witness testimony.
Racketeering (RICO)
RICO charges accuse individuals of participating in an ongoing criminal enterprise. These are extremely serious federal cases and often involve multiple allegations, co-defendants, and long-term investigations.
Federal vs. State Charges
Many white collar crimes can be prosecuted by Michigan authorities or federal agencies. Federal charges typically involve:
- Larger financial amounts
- Longer investigations
- Harsher penalties
- Agencies such as the FBI, IRS, SEC, or DOJ
Understanding the prosecuting authority is essential to developing the right defense strategy.
Investigation Process
White collar cases often begin long before a person knows they are under investigation. This may include:
- Subpoenas
- Search warrants
- Grand jury proceedings
- Forensic accounting
- Interviews or surveillance
Early legal intervention can prevent mistakes, reduce exposure, and position the case for a better outcome.
Defense Strategies
Effective white collar defense may involve:
- Challenging intent
- Disputing financial records
- Questioning investigative methods
- Identifying accounting or reporting mistakes
- Defending against overcharges or inflated loss amounts
- Negotiating reduced charges or alternative resolutions
Every case is fact-specific and demands a tailored approach.
See What Our Clients Are Saying
Joshua A. Kaplan Criminal Defense Attorney provided prompt expert legal guidance throughout my case. His dedication to his clients and legal process unsurpassed. Joshua demonstrated a true personal interest in me and my situation . I would highly recommended him for your legal matter.
Richard S.
I tried to navigate the MI reinstatement process alone and failed. I live out of state and was lost, until I found Mr. Kaplan. He jumped in and helped me navigate the system. He never once made me feel like a criminal, or a bad person for the mistakes I’ve made. He listened, he supported, and he was professional the whole time. I wouldn’t have been able to do this without him. I went 15 years without a license and Josh helped change that for me. Highly recommend!
Amy G.
The best attorney I could have asked for. Josh is caring & knows how to make his clients feel represented. He is diligent and prompt & available when needed. I had another attorney before him that did not help me with my case & Josh really made sure I was taken care of. I highly recommend him to anyone who needs representation. Not only is he good at what he does, but he has a big heart and genuinely wants to help.
Alicia L.
What a True professional… You want Josh Kaplan leading your team!
His representation helped me through a difficult Court case and if i would’ve went with any other attorney I know 1000% it wouldn’t have been in my favor. He made me feel comfortable through the entire process. Josh truly has your back!
Thank you for your services Josh, you’re much appreciated Sir
Michael C.
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