White Collar Criminal Defense

South Carolina White Collar Criminal Defense

The South Carolina white collar criminal defense lawyers at Lofton & Lofton have successfully defended numerous clients facing federal and state charges alleging white collar crimes. Since 1984, we have been known for our track record of client satisfaction and legal service. Our solid commitment to quality representation has earned us the reputation as one of the leading criminal defense firms in South Carolina.

White Collar Crimes

White collar crimes have earned top billing lately as one of the most flagrant abuses of power, with privileged professionals now being increasingly targeted by law enforcement. These alleged criminals are often investigated based on characteristics as vague as success, socioeconomic status, or occupation of a position of trust. Actual or alleged events giving rise to prosecution may include:

• Violations of fiduciary duty
• Evading financial payments owed
• Environmental law violations
• Health and safety violations
• Improperly obtaining personal or business advantage
• Illegally obtaining or concealing money
• Theft of real or personal property
• Improper conduct in government or public office

South Carolina hosted the first program to report incidents of white collar crime in 1991, which organizes data based on participating agencies. However, this system of reporting represents less than 10 percent of the total number of crimes reported to the FBI, most of which come from small to mid-size businesses. In the last few years, the Justice Department has systematically gone after larger financial institutions including banks, hedge-funds, and corporate entities.

Types of White Collar Crime

While not comprehensive, alleged white collar offenses have been expanded to reflect the increasingly formidable speed with which information and money are exchanged in today’s world. But regulations and scanty evidence often make it difficult to pin wrongdoing on a particular conspirator or business. White collar crimes may include:

• Tax evasion
• Insider trading
• Embezzlement
• Bank fraud
• Bribery, extortion
• Money laundering
• Racketeering offenses
• Ponzi/pyramid schemes
• Forgery and counterfeiting
• Corruption of public officials
• Securities, antitrust violations
• Medicare and Medicaid fraud

Alleged crimes may involve economic espionage, piracy, or the theft of trade secrets. Although emails speed the exchange of information and advice, they have also been the downfall of many high-level officials. Federal agencies can use wire-taps, forensic accountants, and the testimony of colleagues to investigate suspected violations.

White Collar Criminal Sentencing

In South Carolina, federal sentencing guidelines may involve a combination of disciplinary action, monetary sanctions, and imprisonment. Prosecution remains unpredictable because individuals and financial institutions are not always “on notice” that previously-accepted behavior is now criminal. Because this area of law is constantly evolving, often in sudden bursts, what was once punished civilly can now be a crime. This raises the stakes with regard to permissible methods of investigation, burden of proof, and sentencing. An experienced legal team is critical to mounting a successful defense.

Defend Your Business and Future

The South Carolina white collar criminal defense attorneys at Lofton & Lofton have over 25 years of experience working high-profile cases. As one of the most sought-after criminal defense firms, we have the knowledge and experience required to defeat allegations of white collar crime. Let us help you recover the respect and financial security you have worked so diligently to build. Call (843) 722-6319 for a consultation or contact us online.