White Collar Crimes Attorney in Oklahoma
Providing Skilled Legal Representation for Clients Accused of Fraudulent Activities
Even though white-collar offenses are considered non-violent, they can still come with stiff penalties. The State of Oklahoma and the federal government take white-collar crimes seriously, and those convicted of fraud can face lengthy prison sentences.
For example, an individual convicted of felony embezzlement, where $1,000 to $25,000 was obtained illegally from an employer or organization, could be sentenced to a maximum of 5 years in prison and ordered to pay restitution. In cases where more than $25,000 was embezzled, a defendant could be sentenced to up to 10 years in prison.
Due to the life-changing consequences of fraud convictions, anyone charged with a white-collar crime must hire an experienced attorney who understands what it takes to obtain favorable client outcomes.
Contact Parsons, Graham & Day, LLC in Tulsa, OK, to schedule a free consultation so that we may thoroughly assess your case and determine what legal strategies suit your needs.
What is Considered White Collar Crime in Oklahoma?
Under Oklahoma law, any money obtained from a business, organization, government agency, or private citizen through the misappropriation of funds or false pretenses may be charged as a white-collar crime.
Some common examples of white-collar crimes include:
- Blackmail
- Credit card fraud
- Corporate fraud
- Forgery
- Healthcare fraud
- Identity theft
- Insurance fraud
- Mortgage fraud
Additionally, extortion may be charged as a state crime unless carried out through mail, telephone, or electronic communication. Additionally, crimes committed using electronic means to commit internet fraud are also prosecuted on the federal level.
Individuals commit white-collar crimes for various reasons. In some instances, they face desperate financial circumstances that cause them to embezzle money, while others who have been accused may be innocent of the charges.
However, anyone accused of a white-collar crime must hire an experienced criminal attorney who will provide them with a solid defense strategy to address the charges.
When Can White Collar Crimes Result in Federal Criminal Charges?
Although the state of Oklahoma may prosecute individuals who commit white-collar crimes, there are several instances where fraudulent activities qualify to be prosecuted by federal authorities.
White-collar crimes that violate federal laws cross state lines, and large Ponzi schemes that involve considerable financial losses can be prosecuted by federal authorities. For example, the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act prohibits U.S. citizens and institutions from bribing foreign officials to obtain unfair business advantages.
Other white-collar crimes that may be prosecuted on a federal level include:
- Bankruptcy fraud
- Bribery
- Counterfeiting
- Commodities fraud
- Insider trading and securities fraud
- Intellectual property theft
- Money laundering
- Racketeering
- Tax evasion
If you face federal charges related to fraudulent activity, Contact Parsons, Graham & Day, LLC immediately to schedule a free, confidential consultation with a highly trained white-collar crime lawyer.
What are the Criminal Penalties if a Person is Convicted of a White Collar Crime?
Whether a white-collar crime is prosecuted on the state or federal level, convictions may result in severe penalties, steep fines, and restitution.
Typically, any penalties or fines imposed depend on the total amount of the money obtained fraudulently or the value of the stolen property. A qualifying theft of less than $500 is considered a misdemeanor and punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
For felony thefts between $500 and $1,000, defendants may be sentenced to up to a year in jail, restitution, and a fine of up to $5,000. Convictions for felony thefts between $1,000 and $25,000 can land defendants in prison for up to 5 years, along with being ordered to pay restitution and fines. In cases of over $25,000, offenders may be sentenced to up to 10 years in prison, restitution, and a $10,000 fine.
However, convictions for federal white-collar crimes carry even stiffer penalties than state charges. For example, anyone convicted of bank fraud may be sentenced to 30 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $1,00,000. In tax evasion cases, offenders may be sentenced to up to 5 years in federal prison and/or a fine of up to $100,000.
For more clarification regarding white-collar fines and penalties, contact our Tulsa, OK, law offices to request a meeting with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney.
Why Should I Choose Your Defense Lawyers to Represent Me in a White Collar Criminal Case?
The attorneys of Parsons, Graham & Day, LLC, are dedicated to helping clients fight white-collar criminal charges. We recognize that you are most likely scared and unsure of what steps to take to protect your reputation and freedom.
Our skilled criminal defense lawyers have extensive experience helping clients, and our years of experience have given us the skills we need to obtain favorable client results.
Many individuals facing white-collar crimes are initially unaware that most cases are settled out of court through plea negotiations. In some instances, with the help of an assertive criminal defense lawyer, individuals may be able to settle their cases, be placed on probation, and avoid prison.
In other cases, a defense lawyer may be able to prove that a defendant had no knowledge or involvement in the crime.
However, it should be noted that all cases differ, and therefore, results will vary. Regardless of the charges and magnitude, you will need an attorney who will present a solid white-collar criminal defense on your behalf.
If you have been charged with a white-collar offense, contact Parsons, Graham & Day, LLC, located in Tulsa, OK, by calling 918-553-5771 and ask to schedule a free, confidential consultation so that we may determine your legal options. For your convenience, we offer reasonable flat fees on all of our criminal defense legal services.