St. Petersburg White-Collar Crimes Lawyers
Facing accusations of a white-collar crime can be overwhelming, with your reputation, career, and freedom all at stake. These cases are often complex, involving intricate financial details. Having an experienced St. Petersburg white-collar crime lawyer on your side can make all the difference in navigating the legal system and defending your future.
At Plotnick Law Offices, we understand the high stakes of these charges and the profound impact they can have on your life. We are committed to crafting personalized defense strategies tailored to the unique circumstances of your case. Our team is dedicated to protecting your rights and giving you the defense you are entitled to under the U.S. Constitution.
Call (727) 619-1827 or contact us online today. We serve clients in Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Manatee counties.
Possible Defenses Against White-Collar Criminal Charges
While every situation is different, there are several common defense strategies that can be broadly applied:
- Insufficient evidence: The most basic reality of criminal defense is that the burden of proof lies with the prosecution. It’s the other side who must present strong, undeniable evidence of wrongdoing. A big part of legal defense is raising reasonable doubt about that evidence.
- Lack of intent: Many white-collar crimes hinge on the defendant's intent to deceive or gain financial benefits unlawfully. Errors in documentation or compliance could be honest mistakes rather than deliberate fraud.
- Entrapment: Did the defendant commit the crime at the behest of an undercover law enforcement officer? The entrapment defense means that the defendant would not have committed the illegal act without the prompting of law enforcement.
- Duress: This applies when the defendant was forced to commit the crime under the threat of harm or coercion. The duress must be considered proportionate to the act. A defendant who embezzled due to threats against their family may be able to use this defense.
A strong defense involves analyzing the nuances of the case and identifying potential procedural errors, like unlawful searches or violations of constitutional rights. The guidance of a skilled attorney is often vital to dealing with these complex legal issues, challenging the prosecution's case, and creating a strategy aimed at achieving the best possible outcome for the client.
Why Choose Plotnick Law Offices?
Experience, Commitment, and Personalized Care
As a former prosecutor, we understand how to build strong cases. Our hands-on approach ensures you’re supported every step of the way.
-
Experience That Matters
Led by a former prosecutor, Plotnick Law Offices offers unique insights and strategic advantages for every case. Our deep understanding of the legal system ensures that we can effectively advocate for your rights and best interests.
-
Relentless Preparation
Success begins with preparation. We leave no stone unturned when investigating and building your case, ensuring that every detail is thoroughly examined to strengthen your position.
-
Hands-On Advocacy
When you choose Plotnick Law Offices, you’ll work directly with an experienced attorney from start to finish. We don’t shuffle clients between attorneys—you’ll always have consistent and reliable guidance.
-
Personalized Representation
At Plotnick Law Offices, we prioritize building strong, lasting relationships with our clients. We take the time to understand your unique needs and goals, ensuring that your case strategy is tailored to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
Experienced White-Collar Crimes Lawyers
Our founder was once a prosecutor, before opening Plotnick Law Offices in 2004. That experience gives our team a unique understanding of the justice system from all angles. We understand how to anticipate and respond to moves by the District Attorney. We know that their case isn’t always as strong as they’d like you or your loved one to believe. You can get strategy and counsel built on foresight and experience.
-
“I cannot thank you enough for your help, Marc, honestly. I made a stupid mistake and it took you no time to take care of the situation.”- Frank M.
-
“I would definitely recommend them to someone in need of any attorney services.”- Priestly V.
-
“He is compassionate and helpful.”- Carolyn A.
-
“In the end, the result was way over my expectations.”- J. Hughes
-
“Quick to respond to communications and always kept me informed during the entire process.”- Michael K.
-
“I truly appreciate everything he did and his communication with me was greatly appreciated.”- Tawna L.
-
“Nothing is worse than waiting around wondering what’s going to happen to you, which didn’t happen at all after hiring Marc.”- Jared
-
“When I tell you they treat you like family, that's no lie!”- Jeffrey B.
Want to learn more about the team behind your case? Visit our About page to meet Marc F. Plotnick and Paul S. Horning, and discover how their experience can make a difference for you.
Common Examples of White-Collar Crime
White-collar crimes are non-violent offenses motivated by financial gain. These allegations often involve deception, breach of trust, or the misuse of one’s professional position to achieve unlawful advantages. The broad scope of white-collar crime means penalties can vary widely, depending on the offense and an individual’s prior record.
Below are some of the most common examples of these allegations:
Embezzlement
This crime occurs when someone entrusted to manage funds or property unlawfully takes those assets for personal use. It often surfaces in workplaces, where employees might siphon money from accounts or misappropriate company resources.
Money Laundering
Money laundering is the act of disguising illicitly-gained funds as legitimate income to evade scrutiny. Criminals often funnel money through businesses, overseas accounts, or complex transactions, making it difficult to trace its origins.
Healthcare Fraud
Healthcare fraud encompasses deceptive practices to obtain unearned benefits from healthcare programs, including Medicare and private insurers. This might include billing for services that were never provided, inflating costs, or doctor shopping to obtain unwarranted prescriptions.
Mortgage Fraud
Mortgage fraud involves providing false information during a real estate transaction to obtain financing or other benefits. This could include inflating property values, falsifying income records, or using straw buyers
Insurance Fraud
Insurance fraud occurs when someone intentionally falsifies claims or misrepresents information to receive undue payouts from an insurance provider. This could range from staging car accidents to submitting claims for damage that never occurred.