What Should I Do If I Am Under Investigation for a White-Collar Crime?

If you’ve learned that you’re under investigation for a white-collar crime, the clock is already ticking. That’s why it’s in your best interest to talk to a reputable Lancaster, PA, white-collar crime attorney right away. Why? Because investigators are already building their case and will twist anything you say, even casually, and use it against you later.

At the Law Office of Stephen W. Grosh, we know from experience that the earlier you involve us in your case, the more options we have to protect you.

What Should You Do First?

Call a defense attorney. You may feel tempted to cooperate fully if investigators or agents contact you. That’s understandable but also dangerous because even a brief conversation without legal representation can put your entire future at risk. You may unknowingly say something that investigators can twist into evidence of guilt.

The early phase of a white-collar case is typically when the most damage can be prevented. When you talk to your lawyer before speaking to law enforcement, they’ll have the best shot at controlling the narrative. They’ll communicate with investigators on your behalf, make sure you understand your rights, and determine whether you’re a target, a subject, or simply a witness. Likewise, they can start gathering the documentation, communications, and financial records you’ll need if the case progresses.

One common mistake people make is thinking that not talking at all will clear them. Unfortunately, prosecutors don’t need your statement to press charges. If they have documents, emails, or cooperating witnesses, they can move forward without a single word from you. 

Additionally, never hand over documents or answer questions without speaking to a Lancaster, PA, white-collar crime attorney first. Doing so will ensure that you’re protected from misinterpretation, exaggeration, or being caught up in a broader investigation.

What You’re Up Against

White-collar crime investigations normally involve piles of documents, years of records, and multiple parties. If you’re being investigated for healthcare fraud, for instance, prosecutors may be combing through billing records, patient files, and internal emails. If it’s wire fraud, they can subpoena bank statements, text messages, and call logs.

In Pennsylvania, fraud and financial crimes can lead to years in prison, massive fines, restitution orders, and lifelong damage to your reputation. The federal system is even tougher. The average federal sentence for economic offenses was over 22 months in a recent year, and that’s just for convicted individuals who didn’t go to trial.

White-collar investigations may also involve local authorities or federal agencies like the FBI or IRS. Regardless of who’s involved, prosecutors typically build pressure gradually, hoping you’ll cooperate or plead guilty before fully understanding your legal options. But you should know that these cases aren’t always as solid as they seem. Miscommunications, accounting errors, or sloppy oversight can lead to criminal suspicion. You may have made a mistake, but that doesn’t mean you committed a crime.

This is where having the right Lancaster, PA, white-collar crime lawyer matters. They don’t just wait for charges to drop. They will actively investigate your side of the story, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and prepare early defenses.

Let Our Lancaster, PA, White-Collar Crime Lawyer Secure Your Freedom

If you’re under investigation or worried that you might, discuss your case with our Lancaster, PA, white-collar crime attorney today. Reach the Law Office of Stephen W. Grosh online or at 717-208-4599 to arrange your confidential consultation.