In recent years, you have probably heard the terms “insider trading” and “corrupt” being thrown around in the news. In particular, you may remember Bernie Madoff, who in 2009 was sentenced to 150 years in prison; or even the accounts of Enron, which occurred nearly a decade ago. What made these crimes so unique was that they did not involve the types of individuals whom one might normally perceive as criminals. Instead, Bernie Madoff and Kenneth Ley (the CEO of Enron) were men with million dollar salaries and respected positions. Theft and deceit of this nature is commonly referred to as “white collar crimes.”
As a respected defense attorney in Detroit, David M. Burgess has particular experience defending clients being charged with or under investigation for a white collar crime. More specifically, these types of offenses pertain to criminals who have used their high positions in business and society to commit crimes that include bribery, insider trading, money-laundering, embezzlement, and fraud to name a few. What is most basic, yet important to remember about white collar crimes, Burgess explains, is that these are sophisticated crimes. Therefore, hiring the right attorney is an absolute must.
In addition to hiring a lawyer, he says, you must also remember that when under investigation for a white collar crime it is always in your best interest to limit your contact with the police. While you may perceive your willingness to speak with authorities as cooperation, in reality you are only aiding the officers. The job of the police is to find enough evidence to arrest you. By openly discussing any events or information you may be giving them the ammunition that they need, even if you feel as though you are clearing your name. Unfortunately, Burgess explains, the government may easily misconstrue your statements. Not until you have met with your Detroit defense attorney should you proceed with answering any questions.
Since white collar crimes almost always deal with corporate matters, Burgess points out that what the authorities may perceive as a crime can be accurately explained as a standard business practice. Although in the media you are going to hear of extreme cases, it is not uncommon to find that these charges are actually misunderstandings. There is a lot of paperwork that needs to be looked over and details that must be carefully reviewed, but with the right legal representation your lawyer can prove to the court that you are complying with business standards and have not committed a crime. The ability to convey this distinction could ultimately be what separates you from being able to return to your normal life as opposed to spending years in jail.
This article is for informational purposes only. You should not rely on this article as a legal opinion on any specific facts or circumstances, and you should not act upon this information without seeking professional counsel. Publication of this article and your receipt of this article does not create an attorney-client relationship.