Different Types of White-Collar Crimes

White collar crimes may not involve violence, but the penalties can be immensely devastating. These offenses usually center on money, fraud, or deceit, and a conviction can lead to felony charges, steep fines, and years in prison. In short, you could lose your freedom, your career, and your reputation.

If you’re being investigated for a white-collar crime or have been arrested, talk to our Lancaster, PA, white-collar crime attorney at the Law Office of Stephen W. Grosh to explore your legal options and start building your defense strategy.

What Exactly is a White-Collar Crime?

The term white-collar crime encompasses a wide range of nonviolent financial offenses. Pennsylvania law prosecutes them seriously, usually as felonies. Some of the most common charges include:

Embezzlement (Theft by Deception or Misappropriation)

If someone diverts company funds for personal use, the law treats it as theft. In PA, when the amount exceeds $2,000, it becomes a third-degree felony, punishable by up to seven years in prison.

Forgery

Signing another person’s name, altering checks, or creating fake documents can be prosecuted as forgery. Under state law, forging checks or government records is also a third-degree felony with penalties of up to seven years.

Identity Theft

Using another person’s Social Security number or bank account without consent is identity theft. If the amount involved is $2,000 or more, or if it’s a second offense, the charge becomes a third-degree felony.

Credit Card Fraud

Using or trafficking in stolen credit cards can start as a misdemeanor but becomes a felony if the fraud exceeds $500 in a six-month period. That’s also punishable by up to seven years.

These examples show how quickly a financial dispute can escalate into felony charges with life-changing consequences. You should likewise know that white-collar crimes can fall under state or federal law.

A local embezzlement case may be prosecuted in a state court, but larger schemes, such as securities fraud, wire fraud, or tax evasion, can trigger federal charges. Federal convictions normally carry longer prison terms under very strict sentencing guidelines. The FBI, IRS, or SEC may all play a role in building cases, making federal prosecutions especially complex.

How a Lancaster, PA, White-Collar Crime Lawyer Can Help You

White collar-crimes typically involve long paper trails and months of investigation. Prosecutors usually build their case quietly before filing charges. That means by the time you learn you’re under investigation, the government may already have documents, witness statements, and bank records lined up against you.

Every day you delay gives investigators more time to solidify their case. When you have an experienced Lancaster, PA, white-collar crime attorney working on your case, they will:

• Analyze financial records for errors or overreach by investigators.
• Challenge whether prosecutors can prove intent to defraud, which is often the key element.
• Negotiate for reduced charges or alternatives such as restitution instead of prison.
• Protect your reputation during the investigation, helping you avoid the public damage of an indictment.

Seek Legal Help From Our Lancaster, PA, White-Collar Crime Lawyer

The sooner you act, the more choices you have to protect your future and reputation. Arrange your confidential consultation with our Lancaster, PA, white-collar crime attorney at the Law Office of Stephen W. Grosh by calling 717-208-4599 or reaching us online.