Call Now  (713) 227-4444 Email Us Hablamos
Español

Neal Davis Blog

  • About
    • Neal Davis
    • Tyler Brock
    • Hiring An Attorney
  • Expertise
    • Criminal Defense
    • Sex Crime Defense
    • Child Pornography
    • Child Solicitation
    • Drug Possession
    • White Collar Crimes
    • Shoplifing/Theft
    • DWI
    • Murder Defense
    • Assault & Family Violence
    • Title IX Defense
  • Results
  • Reviews
  • Press
  • Resources
    • Blog
    • Criminal Defense Guides
    • Scholarships
Home / White Collar Crime / What are White Collar Crimes?

What are White Collar Crimes?

August 13, 2018

white collar crime definition and examples

You’ve probably heard the term “white collar” before in reference to certain crimes. Perhaps you’ve even watched the hit TV show White Collar, featuring Matt Bomer, a highly intelligent con artist working with the FBI to catch other criminals.

But what exactly are white collar crimes and why would you need a white collar crime defense lawyer?

The FBI defines white collar crimes as follows:

“Reportedly coined in 1939, the term white-collar crime is now synonymous with the full range of frauds committed by business and government professionals. These crimes are characterized by deceit, concealment, or violation of trust and are not dependent on the application or threat of physical force or violence. The motivation behind these crimes is financial—to obtain or avoid losing money, property, or services or to secure a personal or business advantage.”

In criminology, white collar offenses differ from blue collar crimes in that blue-collar crime is any crime committed by an individual from a lower social class. White-collar crime, on the other hand, is associated with crime committed by someone of a higher-level social class. Blue collar crimes are often considered more obvious and easily detected by law enforcement.

Types of White Collar Offenses

Such offenses can include many things, but most notably white collar crimes tend to be non-violent acts involving theft or fraud. Those charged with such crimes can be individuals, businesses or corporations.

White collar offenses can include such things as:

  • Embezzlement
  • Money laundering
  • Tax fraud, tax evasion
  • Bank fraud
  • Bribery
  • Counterfeiting
  • Identity theft
  • Conspiracy
  • Healthcare fraud

  
In fact, the last item on this list is becoming more common, as federal investigators probe Medicare fraud and Medicaid fraud, when the government is overcharged for medical costs. Such healthcare fraud often may involve compounding pharmacies.

White Collar Crime Penalties & Punishments

In any case, lying, cheating and deceit are usually components of white collar crimes. But again, such crimes don’t typically involve violence. However, penalties for these non-violent crimes can still be severe.

Indeed, persons facing a white collar crime charge should seek a skilled white collar crime defense lawyer, which the Neal Davis Law Firm can provide. We are experienced in handling many kinds of white collar crime cases, and we work hard to get charges dropped or reduced for our clients.

For example, just last month our client was the only one of 21 defendants in federal court to get probation, not prison, when facing a white collar crime charge of one count of conspiracy to commit fraud.

The case involved a massive India-based money laundering and conspiracy scheme for which 20 other defendants all received prison sentences — some for more than 12 years. Yet the only client represented by the Neal Davis Law Firm was the only defendant shown the leniency of probation.

Another client of ours received what even the federal judge in the case called “lenient” punishment. This was for fraudulently pocketing almost $290,000 in military pension checks sent to the man’s late uncle for 20 years. The sentencing guidelines for the crime of theft of public money called for a minimum of 18 months in prison. Instead, after our client was shown in court to be a remorseful family man, he received probation, not prison, with the promise of restitution.

Our experienced Houston healthcare fraud defense lawyers also stand ready to help Americans facing a charge of compounding pharmacy fraud. Such a charge has become more common recently as overzealous federal investigators have cast wide nets seeking those who deceive the government to gain unearned payments for healthcare products and services.

Whatever type of white collar crime charge you face, when you need a knowledgeable theft or fraud defense attorney for Harris County, Fort Bend County or Montgomery County, contact Neal Davis. We fully understand the need for swift action and discretion in such cases, and we know how to fight effectively for your legal rights.

Contact us today and you’ll receive and confidential legal review of your case. Don’t delay; your future may depend on it.

Related Resources

  • Many Federal Prison Workers Have Been Arrested and Charged
    Many Federal Prison Workers Have Been Arrested and Charged
  • Johnny Depp Accuser ‘Twisted’ Assault Tale, Witness Says
    Johnny Depp Accuser ‘Twisted’ Assault Tale, Witness Says
  • Houston Authorities Crack Down on Violent Crime
    Houston Authorities Crack Down on Violent Crime
5-star review image
Neal Davis is a great attorney!
Theft  |  Harris County
Theft of items from retail store
2016-04-21
"Mr. Davis is a very experienced attorney. He was able to help us during a stressful situation and ..."
H.A. (case expunged), Verified Customer
5-star review image
Got my life back
Online Solicitation  |  Houston
Positive outcome in online solicitation case
2017-04-25
"Words cant express how grateful i am for having Neil on my side. I was involved in a ..."
K.W., Verified Customer
5-star review image
If you are facing any serious charges, Neal is YOUR go to man!
Criminal Defense  |  Houston
Client was falsely accused of murder and in search of a Criminal Attorney
2016-09-28
"When my world got turned upside down I needed the best Criminal Attorney in town. I was facing ..."
C.B., Verified Customer

Categories

  • Child Pornography & Online Solicitation
  • Community
  • Criminal Defense
  • Drug Crimes
  • Federal Crimes
  • Firm News
  • Intoxication Offenses
  • Sex Crimes
  • Violent Crimes
  • White Collar Crime

Search

Criminal Defense Court Process

FREE E-BOOK

Learn all about the legal process and your legal rights.

Get Your Free Copy Now

Board Certified, Criminal Law – Texas Board of Legal Specialization (2009-2021), AV Rated by Martindale Hubbell (2015), and listed as a Best Lawyer in America (2015-2020)

He doesn't give up, no matter what you're up against
M.F.
5-star review image
Got my life back
K.W.
5-star review image
Muy satisfechos con su trabajo
Tia de J.C.
5-star review image

Read All Reviews

    Contact Our Law Firm




    We respect your privacy. The use of this form does not establish an attorney-client relationship.

    Address
    Neal Davis Law Firm
    The Heights Boulevard Law Building
    1545 Heights Blvd., Suite 700
    Houston, TX 77008

    Map

    Call 24/7
    (713) 227-4444

    Office Hours
    Monday - Saturday
    8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

    Sunday: Closed


    Experienced Criminal Defense Law Firm in Texas

    While based in Houston, our law firm provides knowledgeable representation and comprehensive legal services for individuals throughout Texas, including:


    Location

    Harris County:

    Houston, Pasadena, Baytown

    Montgomery County:

    Conroe, The WoodlandsWillis, Pinehurst

    Fort Bend County:

    Sugar Land, Richmond, Needville, Cinco Ranch


    Your Houston Criminal Defense Lawyer: Neal Davis


    A principle of the American criminal justice system is that all defendants are "innocent until proven guilty." Houston criminal defense attorney Neal Davis and his skilled legal team represent individuals accused of committing crimes. For over 20 years, Neal Davis has successfully defended clients in Texas and federal courts in all types of criminal matters at all phases, from state misdemeanors to complex federal matters. Often, he has favorably resolved criminal cases quickly and quietly, without the need for trial.


    The Neal Davis Law Firm defends the rights of individuals charged with all types of state crimes, including drug offenses , child sex crimes, online solicitation of a minor , child pornography, DWI and intoxication manslaughter, fraud and theft, assault and family violence, and murder and homicide, as well as all types of federal crimes.


    Board Certified, Criminal Law – Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Serving all of counties and federal courts across Texas, including Harris County (Houston), Montgomery County (Conroe), Galveston County and Fort Bend County (Richmond). Enjuris Texas personal injury guide

    © 2022 Neal Davis Law Firm, PLLC. All rights reserved. Law Firm Online Marketing by SEO Advantage, Inc.


    Legal Information

    The information and materials on this website are provided for general informational purposes only, and are not intended to be legal advice. We attempt to provide quality information, but the law changes frequently, and varies from place to place. The information and materials provided are general in nature, and may not apply to a specific factual or legal circumstance. An attorney and client relationship should not be implied. Nothing on this website is intended to substitute for the advice of an attorney; therefore, if you require legal advice, please consult with a competent attorney licensed to practice in your jurisdiction. Every case is different and individual results may vary depending on the facts of a case.