THE STRENGTH TO FIGHT.
THE CONFIDENCE TO WIN.

THE STRENGTH TO FIGHT.
THE CONFIDENCE TO WIN.

What Should You Know About White Collar Crimes?

If you are facing charges for a white collar crime, most likely the alleged offenses are complex or even confusing. You probably have questions about the charges you could face and the criminal justice process in general. At Mandell Law, our experienced attorneys answer questions for our clients every day. The following are answers to questions about white collar crime in Florida.

What is RICO?

RICO stands for the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act. This federal law makes it a crime to conspire with others in a criminal enterprise. The original purpose was to target organized crime groups like the mafia but can be used to prosecute any organization engaged in criminal activity, including fraudulent business activity.

Will I face federal charges for a white collar crime?

Both state and federal laws include white collar offenses, so it depends on the alleged crime. Many white collar crimes fall under federal law, however, because they involve a federal agency, cross state lines or violate a law unique to the federal government.

Can I lose my medical license if charged with health care fraud?

In some cases, you can lose your medical license for committing health care fraud. Your case will likely come before the Florida Board of Medicine for review. In addition, some types of fraud can make you ineligible to bill for Medicare or Medicaid patients, which can threaten your livelihood.

What is the difference between civil and criminal tax fraud?

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) knows that not everyone who files an incorrect tax return does so on purpose or in an attempt to defraud the government. If they believe you made an honest mistake, they will pursue repayment through civil means, but you will have to pay them the money you owe. If they find evidence that you defrauded the IRS on purpose in order to evade paying the taxes you owe, they will bring criminal charges.

Do I need a lawyer if I’m under investigation but haven’t been arrested yet?

It is never too early to hire a lawyer if you think law enforcement is investigating you. There are many ways we can help intervene early to protect your rights, and perhaps even lessen your charges or convince them not to bring charges.

What does a federal grand jury do?

In federal felony cases, federal prosecutors will bring a case to a grand jury, made up of 16 to 23 citizens, to decide whether they have enough evidence to indict, or bring charges against, a suspect in a case. The grand jury does not decide on guilt or innocence, but on whether the case provides probable cause to believe that the accused committed the crime.

What are the penalties for identity theft?

Identity theft is a third-degree felony under Florida Statute 817.568(2), punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. Depending on the number of victims involved and the amount of financial gain at issue, however, the charges could go up to a first-degree felony and a possible sentence of up to 30 years.

Find Answers To Your Questions

We answer questions for our clients every day and we are here to help you find answers, as well. Schedule a free initial consultation today by calling our Orlando office at 407-956-1180 or reaching out online. Se habla español. Besides Orlando, we represent clients throughout Orange County and all of Florida.

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