Trusted White Collar Crime Defense Attorneys in Albany, New York
At O’Brien & Eggleston PLLC, our Albany white collar crime defense lawyers and support staff are fearless advocates for clients who are facing these difficult legal challenges.
White collar crimes encompass a wide range of non-violent, financially motivated criminal offenses that may be committed by individuals, businesses, or professionals, and are often classified as serious felonies in New York that violate either state or federal law — where convictions are met with severe penalties.
Our white collar crime defense attorneys in Albany County know the challenges associated with allegations of financial wrongdoing, and how they can impact our clients’ personal and professional lives. A mere allegation of a white collar crime can negatively and irreversibly affect an individual’s reputation professionally, and in their community.
This is why we believe everyone deserves access to collaborative, outside-the-box legal solutions, no matter where they live or work in New York.
With over 20 years of combined experience on both sides of New York’s criminal courtrooms, accounting for over 200 trials between them, our law firm’s co-founders, Kevin O’Brien and Adam Eggleston, have built important relationships within the legal system, ultimately benefiting our clients and their legal outcomes.
Contact us today to discuss your important legal needs, so you understand the depth of your criminal charges immediately and have our skilled white collar crime defense attorneys building your legal strategy from the start of your case.
What is Considered White Collar Crime in New York State?
White collar crimes are those motivated by financial gain and are committed through deceit. These types of crimes, while generally non-violent, are prosecuted harshly and penalized severely in New York.
Common crimes that fall under white collar crimes may include, but are not limited to:
- Bank Fraud
- Bankruptcy Fraud
- Bribery
- Corporate Fraud
- Credit Card Fraud
- Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument
- Criminal Tax Fraud
- Embezzlement
- Falsifying Business Records
- Forgery
- Identity Theft
- Insurance Fraud
- Money Laundering
- Mortgage Fraud
- Public Corruption
- Racketeering
- Securities Fraud
- Tampering with Public Records
- Theft of Services
Our white collar crime attorneys in Albany will guide you through each stage of the criminal process as we defend your rights and aggressively fight for your best interests. You can rely on us to provide you with well-informed advice and relentless representation.
Our attorneys know that being charged with a white collar crime can be intimidating, but we are here to handle all your legal issues while you focus on your personal life and loved ones.
O’Brien & Eggleston PLLC genuinely care about our clients, and we work hard to help them get the results they need. From assisting you with legal paperwork and helping you make sound decisions to ensuring your rights are always protected, we can do it all. We are dedicated to getting the charges you are facing reduced or dismissed completely.
What are the Penalties for White Collar Crimes in New York State?
Each white-collar crime is assigned to a specific criminal class in New York, based on its severity. The penalties associated with white collar crimes are unique to the person, the charges, the amount of money involved, and whether the offense rises to the level of federal prosecution.
Although far from an exhaustive list, a few examples of white collar crime penalties in New York include:
- A scheme to defraud or falsifying business records in the first degree may be charged as Class E felonies in New York, resulting in a prison term of four years and a $5,000 fine.
- Identity theft in the first degree is a Class D felony in New York, resulting in a prison term of up to seven years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
- Forgery in the first degree and criminal possession of a forged instrument are both Class C felonies in New York, resulting in a prison term of up to 15 years and a $5,000 fine.
In some cases, individuals charged with a white collar crime in New York may be required to pay a fine double their monetary gain from committing the offense instead of the maximum penalty.
Aside from the criminal penalties, white collar crime convictions can have far-reaching social and professional consequences long after the case is over. The ramifications of a conviction might include not only reputational harm, but also difficulty in securing employment going forward.
We are dedicated to making sure you can tell your side of the story in a compelling way to protect your interests. In these tense situations, it is never advisable to represent yourself. Let O’Brien & Eggleston take your side and fight for you.
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Contact Our Dedicated White Collar Crime Defense Attorneys in Albany, New York Today
At O’Brien & Eggleston, our Albany white collar crime lawyers know tough legal issues require strong legal strategies. That is why we are here.
Our priority is to prove that you deserve an outcome that supports your future, and we have a strong track record of doing so for our clients. Don’t give up your rights without a fight. Contact our Albany white collar crime defense attorneys at O’Brien & Eggleston PLLC today by calling 518-391-2369 or contacting us online to schedule your initial appointment.
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Frequently Asked Questions For White Collar Crimes
How are white-collar crimes different from other criminal offenses?
White-collar crimes are those committed for financial gain, not physical harm, and are typically punished monetarily. In most cases, the prosecutors will focus on the defendant paying restitution by agreeing to forfeitures and fines.
As white-collar crime continues to grow across the country, U.S. Attorneys and federal judges are using jail time as punishment for those who knowingly and willingly committed fraud against investors and consumers. This is why having an experienced white-collar defense lawyer in Albany, New York by your side is essential, explaining your legal rights and options to pursue the best outcome.
How do I know if I am the target of a white-collar crime investigation?
There may be visible signs you are being investigated for a white-collar crime, including being contacted by a colleague that your name came up while law enforcement was questioning them about the matter.
Another more apparent sign is that you have received a phone call or another correspondence asking you to meet with law enforcement regarding your involvement in a white-collar crime.
If law enforcement appears unannounced at your home, work, or other location, you do not have to submit to questioning or a search of your property unless they have a warrant. Even if they have a warrant and you are under arrest, you have the right to remain silent and the right to counsel. Invoke both and contact us right away.
Can I be charged with a white-collar crime if no direct harm or victim was involved?
Individuals can be charged with white-collar crimes even if no direct harm or victim is involved. Prosecutors often focus on alleged fraudulent activities and law violations when pursuing cases and may do so to dissuade others from attempting to engage in white-collar crimes.
Can I be charged with a white-collar crime if I made a mistake or an error in my financial dealings?
White-collar crimes generally involve intentional acts of deception or fraud. Mistakes or errors, without the intent to commit fraud may not lead to criminal charges.
Is it possible to negotiate plea deals in white-collar crime cases in Albany, New York?
Yes, plea negotiations are common in white-collar crime cases. An experienced attorney can work to secure favorable plea agreements, potentially reducing charges or penalties.
What defenses are available for white-collar crime charges in Albany, New York?
All criminal defense strategies are unique and are designed to focus on the best interests of the defendant based on the facts, circumstances, and any mitigating or aggravating factors involved in the alleged crime. However, some common white-collar crime defenses may include lack of intent, mistaken identity, insufficient evidence, entrapment, and proving that the alleged actions were lawful or not fraudulent.
