White Collar Criminal Defense Attorney in Merced, CA
Defending Financial Crime Allegations in Stockton & Modesto
An investigation or charge for a white-collar crime can threaten to undo everything for which you have worked. While these offenses are non-violent, they are aggressively prosecuted by state and federal agencies. An accusation alone can damage your professional reputation, and a conviction can lead to significant prison time, crippling fines, and the end of your career.
These cases are often incredibly complex, hinging on a trail of documents, emails, and financial records. At Law Office of Christopher Loethen, I understand how to navigate these intricate cases and what is at stake for you and your family.
To discuss your case with a white collar crime attorney in Merced, call (209) 546-6192 or contact me online.
What Are White Collar Crimes?
White collar crime is a broad category of financially motivated, non-violent offenses. These crimes are typically committed in a business or professional setting and are characterized by deceit, concealment, or a violation of trust. Unlike other criminal cases that rely on eyewitnesses or physical evidence, a white-collar case is often built on a mountain of documents, digital records, and financial data.
The central issue in nearly every white-collar prosecution is intent. The government must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you acted with a specific intent to deceive or defraud someone for financial gain.
Because investigations can be lengthy and complex, having a legal advocate on your side is critical as early as possible.
Common White-Collar Offenses in California
California law defines a wide variety of white-collar crimes, many of which are "wobblers" that can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. The decision often depends on the amount of financial loss involved and the defendant's criminal history.
At Law Office of Christopher Loethen, I defend clients against a broad spectrum of these charges, including:
Fraud. This is a large category of crimes involving deceit to gain a financial or personal advantage. Common types include insurance fraud (PC § 550), real estate fraud, and credit card fraud (PC § 484e-j).
Embezzlement (PC § 503). This crime occurs when a person fraudulently takes property entrusted to them by someone else. A classic example is an employee stealing money or assets from their employer.
Forgery (PC § 470). Forgery involves creating, altering, or using a written document with the intention to defraud. This can include signing another person's name to a check or falsifying a legal document.
Perjury (PC § 118). This is a crime against the justice system itself. It occurs when a person deliberately gives false testimony under oath in a legal proceeding.
Defending Against White Collar Crime Allegations
A successful defense in a white-collar case requires a meticulous and analytical foundation. The government often spends months or even years building its case before filing charges. My job is to deconstruct that case piece by piece, challenging the evidence and the prosecution's interpretation of the facts.
At Law Office of Christopher Loethen, my defense process is built on several key actions:
Challenging criminal intent. As stated, the prosecution must prove you intended to commit a crime. I will work to show that your actions resulted from a good-faith mistake, a misunderstanding of complex regulations, or that you were acting on incorrect information given to you by others.
Conducting a thorough document review. I conduct my own exhaustive review of financial records, contracts, emails, and other evidence in your case. The goal is to find information that contradicts the government's narrative, explains your actions, and supports your innocence.
Filing motions to suppress evidence. Investigators must follow the law when gathering evidence. If they conducted an illegal search of your office, seized your computer without a valid warrant, or otherwise violated your constitutional rights, I will file a motion to have that evidence thrown out of court.
Preparing for trial while negotiating. My uncompromising approach means I prepare every case as if it will go to trial. This thorough preparation puts you in the strongest possible position to negotiate for a dismissal or a favorable resolution that protects your career and future.
To discuss your case with a white-collar crimes attorney in Merced, CA, call (209) 546-6192 or contact me online.
