Bellefontaine White Collar Crimes Lawyer

Do You Face Criminal Charges in Logan or Union County? Call Us For Legal Assistance

Whether you are a business executive or a grandmother who is being investigated for writing out more checks on the family home's account than the children have accounted for, few criminal charges can be more frightening than those that are considered white collar crimes.

Let attorney Natalie J. Bahan help you minimize the damage to your future. She offers the confidential initial consultation at her criminal defense law office in Bellefontaine. To learn more about our credentials and effective legal strategies, contact Bahan Law now.

Call (937) 883-5656 or reach out online for the experienced, committed and effective representation you deserve.

Types of White Collar Crimes in Ohio

White collar crimes encompass a wide range of offenses that typically involve deceit, fraud, or financial manipulation. These crimes can vary in complexity, and the penalties for a conviction can be severe, depending on the specific charges.

The most common white collar crimes include:

• Fraud Fraud is the intentional deception or misrepresentation made for personal gain. Fraud can occur in various forms, including credit card fraud, bank fraud, insurance fraud and security fraud.
• Embezzlement Embezzlement occurs when an individual in a position of trust, such as an employee or financial advisor, takes money or property entrusted to them for personal use. 
• Money Laundering Money laundering involves concealing the origins of illegally obtained money, typically by transferring it through various channels or using false financial records to make it appear legitimate. 
• Identity Theft Identity theft occurs when an individual unlawfully obtains someone else’s personal information and uses it for financial gain, often through fraudulent transactions, credit accounts, or loans.
• Bribery and Corruption Bribery and corruption typically involve offering or accepting something of value to influence a decision or action. These crimes can occur in both the public and private sectors.
• Tax Evasion Tax evasion refers to the illegal act of intentionally avoiding paying taxes owed to the government, usually by underreporting income, inflating deductions, or hiding assets.
• Corporate Crimes Corporate crimes involve illegal activities carried out by businesses or their employees to achieve financial gain. These crimes can include antitrust violations, environmental violations, wage theft, and health care fraud.

Penalties for White Collar Crimes in Ohio

White collar crimes are typically categorized as felonies in Ohio, and the penalties can be severe. The exact penalties for a conviction will depend on the type of crime, the amount of money or property involved, whether the defendant has any prior criminal history, and other factors specific to the case.

Some potential penalties for white collar crimes in Ohio include:

• Fines: Depending on the crime, you could face substantial fines. For example, a conviction for securities fraud or embezzlement can result in fines reaching thousands or even millions of dollars.
• Incarceration: Many white collar crimes carry the possibility of prison sentences. For instance, a conviction for identity theft or tax evasion may result in a prison sentence of several years, while more severe offenses like money laundering can lead to a lengthy term of imprisonment.
• Restitution: In many cases, individuals convicted of white collar crimes are required to pay restitution to the victims of their crimes. Restitution may include the full amount of money stolen, along with interest and additional penalties.
• Probation: In some cases, a judge may order probation instead of jail time, particularly if it is the defendant’s first offense or the crime was not egregious. However, even probation can carry significant restrictions, including regular check-ins with a probation officer, restrictions on travel, and mandatory community service.
• Permanent Criminal Record: A conviction for white collar crime can result in a permanent criminal record, which can affect your ability to find employment, secure loans, and maintain professional licenses. For some individuals, the collateral consequences of a conviction may be even more damaging than the legal penalties.

The Importance of Hiring a Bellefontaine White Collar Crimes Lawyer

Being charged with a white collar crime in Ohio can have a profound impact on your life and future. A conviction for a white collar crime can damage your personal and professional reputation, your financial stability, and your ability to find meaningful work. Because of the complexity of white collar crimes, you should seek the assistance of a skilled Logan County white collar crimes lawyer as soon as possible.

Here’s how a Bellefontaine white collar crimes attorney can help you navigate the legal system and fight for your rights:

1. Case Evaluation and Investigation: In some cases, the evidence may be insufficient or the charges may have been brought due to a misunderstanding or mishandling of evidence. Your attorney can examine financial records, interview witnesses, and work with forensic experts to build a solid defense.
2. Negotiation with Prosecutors: Many white collar crime cases can be resolved without going to trial. A Bellefontaine white collar crimes attorney can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce the charges or reach a plea agreement that results in a more favorable outcome, such as reduced penalties or a lighter sentence.
3. Defense Strategies: Depending on the specifics of your case, your attorney may use a variety of defense strategies, including:
   • Lack of intent: In many white collar crimes, intent plays a critical role. If the prosecution cannot prove that you acted with criminal intent, you may be able to avoid a conviction.
   • Mistake of fact: If you can demonstrate that you were unaware of the fraudulent activity or did not know you were violating the law, it may be possible to avoid a conviction.
   • Coercion or duress: In some cases, individuals may commit crimes due to coercion or pressure from others. This defense may be available in certain white collar crime cases.
4. Trial Representation: If your case proceeds to trial, your attorney will provide vigorous defense representation. They will advocate on your behalf, cross-examine witnesses, and present evidence in your favor to cast doubt on the prosecution’s case. An experienced white collar crimes lawyer will fight to protect your rights and minimize the potential penalties.
5. Appeals: If you are convicted of a white collar crime, your lawyer can help you explore options for an appeal. In many cases, convictions can be overturned if there were errors in the trial process, incorrect instructions to the jury, or violations of your constitutional rights.

Contact us online or call (937) 883-5656 to discuss your situation with Natalie J. Bahan in an initial consultation.