White-collar crimes describe actions that are not violent but still violate state criminal law. The term “white-collar” is used because the financial nature of these allegations tends to affect business professionals and other people involved in non-violent crime.
If you have been accused of a financial crime, these accusations could affect not just your freedom but also your reputation in the community. A Maryland white-collar crimes lawyer could fight to defend you in and out of the courtroom. An experienced defense attorney could review your case and advise you on the best steps to take moving forward.
Not every criminal accusation in Maryland involves an act of violence or possession of an illegal object. Many laws exist with the express purpose of prohibiting actions that violate public policy. White-collar crimes typically affect people’s finances.
In some cases, white-collar crime can be a type of theft. Under the Maryland Code, Criminal Law §7-113, it is illegal for any fiduciary to appropriate any money or property in a way that contradicts the owner’s wishes. These charges can apply to financial advisers, employees, and even attorneys holding client funds.
Other offenses may include accusations of fraud related to public service. For instance, MD Code, Criminal Law §8-520 states that it is illegal to encourage, solicit, or otherwise interfere with a public safety officer participating in a fundraising event. Similarly, people may not solicit donations by using the name of the public safety offices without their permission.
Additionally, the misuse of a public office itself can lead to accusations of white-collar crime. According to the MD Code, Criminal Law §9-201, no public employee can solicit or otherwise ask for or accept a bribe to influence their public duties. An accomplished attorney could review a defendant’s case to determine defenses to the allegation they committed a white-collar crime under the Maryland criminal code.
White-collar crime can range in seriousness from relatively minor misdemeanors to serious felonies. A misdemeanor conviction usually requires a defendant to pay a fine but may carry a jail sentence of up to one year. Felonies carry more substantial fines and longer prison terms. In the most severe cases, a felony conviction can require a mandatory minimum prison term.
Since many defendants in white-collar crime cases are professionals, businesspeople, or involved in government, the impact of a conviction can expand beyond the criminal realm. These people may suffer serious harm to their public reputations. Individuals with professional licenses may face disciplinary hearings or may be forced to resign their posts upon conviction. A Maryland white-collar crimes attorney could help to provide protection in and out of court.
Accusations of criminal behavior are serious, no matter the exact nature of the allegations. However, for people in government or those with professional jobs, the mere appearance of illegal activity could have long-term consequences.
White-collar criminal cases usually allege some form of financial misconduct. Although no person suffered any physical harm, the potential penalties for a conviction are no less severe.
A Maryland white-collar crimes lawyer could explain the charges against you and how to build a strong defense against the prosecution. Reach out to a knowledgeable defense attorney today to get started.
