Defending Your Reputation & Financial Future
At Simmons Wagner, LLP, we understand that white collar crime allegations strike at the heart of your professional integrity and can carry severe penalties—lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and irreparable damage to personal and business reputations. Our office in Irvine represents individuals and businesses throughout Orange County and across California, providing nuanced, evidence-based defenses against a variety of financial and corporate offenses. If you or someone you know is under investigation for a white collar crime, call (949) 439-5857 for a confidential consultation.
What Are White Collar Crimes?
White collar crimes typically involve illegal financial transactions, fraud, or deceit for monetary gain or to avoid financial loss. These offenses are often investigated by specialized units in state and federal agencies, such as the FBI, IRS, SEC, or California’s Department of Justice. Common examples include:
Fraud & Embezzlement
- Embezzlement (Penal Code § 503): Misappropriating funds or property you were entrusted to manage.
- Fraud: Ranging from insurance fraud (Penal Code §§ 548, 550) to investment schemes, mortgage fraud, or credit card fraud.
Money Laundering (Penal Code § 186.10, 18 U.S.C. § 1956)
- Concealing the origins of illegally obtained funds through complex financial transactions or shell companies.
Securities Fraud & Insider Trading
- Violations of state or federal securities laws, including misrepresenting corporate performance, trading on confidential information, and other deceptive practices.
Tax Evasion & IRS Violations
- Under-reporting income, misclassifying deductions, or otherwise circumventing California Franchise Tax Board and IRS regulations.
Healthcare Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1347)
- Submitting false claims to Medicare, Medi-Cal, or private insurance companies, inflating bills, or billing for unprovided services.
Computer & Internet Crimes
- Hacking (Penal Code § 502), phishing, or online scams that involve misrepresentation or unauthorized access to data for financial gain.
Potential Consequences
Significant Prison Sentences
- White collar offenses often trigger federal charges with sentencing guidelines that can result in years—or even decades—behind bars, especially when large sums of money or multiple victims are involved.
Substantial Fines & Restitution
- Convicted individuals and businesses may face steep fines, disgorgement of profits, and court-ordered restitution to victims.
Asset Seizures & Forfeitures
- Law enforcement agencies can freeze bank accounts, seize property, and forcibly collect any ill-gotten gains, undermining personal and professional financial stability.
Professional & Business Repercussions
- A conviction can lead to loss of professional licenses, debarment from government contracts, and damaged relationships with clients or investors.
Collateral Consequences
- Non-U.S. citizens may face immigration challenges, while U.S. citizens might lose certain civil rights or access to future employment opportunities.
Our Approach
Early Intervention & Risk Assessment
We get involved as soon as you suspect an investigation or receive a subpoena. Prompt action may help negotiate with investigators before formal charges are filed, potentially avoiding arrest or indictment.
Forensic & Financial Analysis
White collar cases hinge on complex paper trails—bank statements, transaction ledgers, and corporate records. We partner with forensic accountants, IT specialists, and financial experts to dissect the evidence, highlight irregularities, and challenge the prosecution’s conclusions.
Strategic Defense Formation
Lack of Intent: Demonstrating you had no criminal intent or were unaware of any fraudulent actions.
Procedural Errors: Identifying constitutional or investigative violations that cast doubt on the admissibility of evidence.
Mistaken Identity: In cases involving multiple parties, proving you had no role in orchestrating or knowingly participating in unlawful acts.
Negotiation & Litigation
Depending on the evidence’s strength, we may pursue a favorable plea deal (e.g., reduced charges, restitution agreements). However, if negotiations fail to yield a fair resolution, we are prepared to litigate vigorously in state or federal court, challenging the prosecution’s narrative at every turn.
Post-Case Guidance & Compliance
We offer ongoing support post-resolution, advising on compliance programs, record-keeping standards, or licensing issues to minimize future legal risks.
Why Choose Simmons Wagner, LLP in Irvine, CA, for White Collar Defense?
- Expertise in Complex Financial & Regulatory Cases
Our attorneys have deep experience defending against allegations of fraud, money laundering, and regulatory violations, equipping us to handle multi-faceted state and federal investigations. - Collaborative Network of Specialists
We maintain relationships with forensic accountants, financial analysts, cybersecurity professionals, and other experts critical to forming a robust defense in complex cases. - Client-Centered Representation
We understand that a white collar investigation can be overwhelming and disruptive. Our firm maintains open communication, ensuring you remain informed and engaged throughout every stage of your case. - Local Familiarity, Broad Capabilities
Based in Irvine, we serve clients across Orange County and throughout California. Our familiarity with state and federal courts positions us to navigate local legal landscapes effectively. - Proven Commitment to Results
From securing dismissals to negotiating beneficial plea deals, our track record highlights our dedication to protecting clients’ reputations, assets, and freedoms.
Contact Us
A white collar crime investigation can place your career, finances, and freedom at stake. Simmons Wagner, LLP stands ready to defend your rights and guide you through every aspect of these often-complex proceedings. Call (949) 439-5857 to schedule a free, confidential consultation. Let our comprehensive legal strategy safeguard your future and secure the most favorable outcome possible.