Lakeland White Collar Crime Criminal Defense Attorney

Experienced Lakeland Criminal Defense Lawyer, Lee A. Cohen, offers legal services for alleged White Collar Crimes in Lakeland, Polk County, and Central FL.

Call Attorney, Lee A. Cohen 863.646.7636

You certainly want an Attorney that can investigate the forensic data regarding allegations of a White-Collar Business Crime because the state has many elements to prove in a scheme to defraud case or other types of white collar crime cases. The chief concern for the state is not necessarily the prosecution, but restitution. So, I can certainly help you out with alternative means of handling your case other than going to trial. With the goal of getting a good result for you so you do not have to worry about a conviction for a felony case.

Being convicted of a professional white collar crime can be catastrophic to you personally, professionally, and financially. As new behaviors are identified, professional white collar crimes are an ever-changing field with new laws being written to include these new behaviors. White collar crimes are aggressively prosecuted and are often tried in federal court.

Types of White Collar Crimes include, but are not limited to:

• Health Care Fraud;
  
  
• Computer / Internet Fraud;
  
  
• Welfare Fraud;
  
  
• Embezzlement;
  
  
• Insurance Fraud;
  
  
• Mortgage Fraud;
  
  
• Mail Fraud;
  
  
• Wire Fraud;
  
  
• Telemarketing Fraud;
  
  
• Pharmaceutical Crimes;
  
  
• Counterfeiting / Forgery;
  
  
• Import / Export Crimes;
  
  
• Extortion;
  
  
• Perjury.

When an individual is charged with a White Collar Crime, or any other criminal offense, it is important to be well informed regarding the charges against you, your legal rights, options which may be available to you, viable defense strategies, and if the case goes to trial, aggressive defense of your legal rights and freedoms.

Protect your rights by seeking the legal advice and representation of an experienced White Collar Crime Criminal Defense Lawyer.

Contact Lee A. Cohen at 863.646.7636 for your White Collar Crime Criminal Defense legal needs in the Lakeland, Winter Haven, Bartow, Polk County, and Central Florida Area.

Attorney Lee A. Cohen has been practicing law in the State of Florida since 1996. His law practice focuses on protecting the rights of those accused of committing criminal offences. Over the years, Mr. Cohen has Successfully represented countless residents of, and visitors to, Polk County and Central Florida regarding criminal matters. Mr. Cohen strongly believes that everyone is presumed innocent, and aggressively utilized every legal resource available unter the law in an effort to always provide the highest standard of legal representation. 

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I Lee Cohen, am Board certified in criminal trial law. You’re not going to talk to too many attorneys that are board certified in the area that they practice. Board certification means that I am a specialist in Criminal Trial Law. Which means I have passed a special review by the Florida Bar Association to be recognized as a specialist in practicing criminal trial law.

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What is a White Collar Crime in the State of Florida?

A white collar crime is a type of non-violent felony that involves deception, fraud, or theft for financial gain. According to the White Collar Crime Victim Protection Act, enacted by the Florida Legislature in 2001, a white collar crime can be a conspiracy to commit or the commission of any felony offense specified in several chapters of the Florida Statutes that relate to theft, fraud, forgery, counterfeiting, bribery, and other similar crimes. A white collar crime can also be any felony offense that is committed with intent to defraud or deprive a person of his or her property, or that involves fraud or deceit upon a person. White collar crimes are often committed by professionals, business owners, managers, government workers, and other "white collar workers" who have access to or influence over financial transactions or resource.

Are White Collar Crimes tried in State or Federal Court in Florida?

In Florida, white-collar crimes can be tried in either state or federal court, depending on the nature and scope of the crime. Generally, if the crime violates state law, it is prosecuted by state authorities. However, if the crime involves federal law, federal agencies, or interstate activity, it is prosecuted by federal authorities. White-collar crimes can carry severe penalties, such as fines, imprisonment, and probation, regardless of the court system.

Can I seek to have a Federal White Collar Crime case to be tried in State Court instead of in the Federal Criminal System?

The answer to whether one can seek to have a federal white collar crime case tried in state court instead of in the federal criminal system depends on several factors. First, one must consider the nature and jurisdiction of the alleged offense, as some crimes are exclusively federal, some are exclusively state, and some are concurrent. Second, one must consider the stage and status of the prosecution, as some procedural rules may limit the possibility of transferring a case from one court to another. Third, one must consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of such a transfer, as state and federal courts may have different sentencing guidelines, evidentiary standards, and jury pools. Therefore, the decision to seek a transfer of a federal white collar crime case to state court is not a simple one and requires careful analysis and strategic planning with the assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney.

Is it possible to have my White Collar Crime charges reduced to a misdemeanor in Florida?

In Florida, white collar crimes can be classified as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the amount of money or value involved and the number of victims. Generally, a white collar crime is a misdemeanor if the value is less than $300 and there is only one victim. However, there are some exceptions and aggravating factors that can increase the severity of the charge. Therefore, it is possible to have a white collar crime charge reduced to a misdemeanor in Florida, but it depends on the specific circumstances of the case and the discretion of the prosecutor. A skilled criminal defense attorney can help you negotiate a plea deal or present a strong defense at trial to achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.

Who decides if my White Collar Crime is a State or Federal criminal case in the State of Florida?

The jurisdiction of a white collar crime in Florida depends on several factors, such as the nature, location, and amount of the offense. Generally, state courts handle crimes that violate state laws, while federal courts handle crimes that violate federal laws or cross state lines. However, some crimes can be prosecuted in both state and federal courts, such as fraud, identity theft, or money laundering. In such cases, the prosecutors from both levels may coordinate and decide which court is more appropriate for the case. This decision may be influenced by the availability of resources, the severity of the penalties, and the interests of justice.

Can I protect my personal and professional assets in a white collar crime case in Florida?

If you are facing white collar crime charges in Florida, you may be worried about the impact on your personal and professional assets. White collar crimes are often complex and involve large amounts of money, property, or data. Depending on the nature and severity of the offense, you could face fines, restitution, forfeiture, or even jail time. To protect your assets and your reputation, you need a skilled and experienced white collar crime defense attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and fight for your rights. A good lawyer can challenge the evidence against you, negotiate a favorable plea deal, or represent you at trial if necessary.

Can I be charged with a white collar crime in Florida if I did not have intent to defraud anyone?

In Florida, white collar crimes are prosecuted under various statutes, depending on the nature and severity of the offense. However, one common element for most white collar crimes is the intent to defraud or deceive someone. If you did not have such intent, you may have a valid defense against the charges. However, proving your lack of intent can be challenging and may require the assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney.

Can I have a white collar crime conviction or plea deal sealed or expunged in Florida?

It depends on the type and severity of the offense, as well as your prior criminal history. Generally, sealing or expunging a white collar crime is very difficult, if not impossible, in Florida. You should consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney to explore your options and the possible consequences of having a white collar crime on your record.

Do I need to hire a criminal defense attorney if I am charged with a white collar crime in Florida?

If you are charged with a white collar crime in Florida, such as fraud, embezzlement, or money laundering, you should consult a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. White collar crimes are serious offenses that can result in harsh penalties, such as fines, restitution, and imprisonment. A criminal defense attorney can help you understand your rights, challenge the evidence against you, negotiate a plea deal, or represent you at trial. You do not want to face the prosecution alone, especially if your reputation, career, and freedom are at stake.

Contact Lakeland Criminal Defense Lawyer, Lee A. Cohen today at 863.646.7636

5430 Strickland Avenue, Lakeland, FL 33812

Phone: 863.646.7636 • Fax: 863.648.0983

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