Cleveland White Collar Crime Lawyer
Defending Against White Collar Crime Charges in Ohio
At Patituce & Associates, we focus solely on defending our clients against white collar crime charges. Our experience as former prosecutors enables us to guide you through the legal process efficiently. It's crucial to hire an attorney with substantial courtroom experience. If you’ve been charged with a white-collar crime, contact a Cleveland white collar crime lawyer today.
Call Patituce & Associates today at (440) 771-1175or contact us onlineto schedule a consultation with our white collar crime attorney in Cleveland.
Examples of White Collar Crime Charges
Our firm can handle a wide variety of white-collar crimes:
- Mail or wire fraud – This type of fraud is often committed by disguising the sender as a legitimate business. Wire fraud is the electronic version of mail fraud.
- Prescription drug fraud – There are many types of fraudulent prescriptions, such as using stolen prescription pads to write fictitious scripts, altering legitimate prescriptions, and giving false callback numbers to verify prescriptions.
- Conspiracy – Conspiracy charges are brought about when there is a suspicion that two or more people are planning a crime. Conspiracy is common because significant fraud is hard to commit alone.
- Theft from businesses – Petty theft involves goods under $1,000, while first degree felony charges may be applicable for thefts exceeding $1.5 million, with various theft charges in between.
- RICO – RICO stands for “Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations.” RICO charges are typically serious. They may apply if someone has committed crimes over years in association with an organization.
- Tax fraud – Tax fraud is the intentional action to evade tax payments, such as underpaying taxes or avoiding them altogether.
- Embezzlement – Embezzlement occurs when employees entrusted to handle their employer's funds take part of the money as their own.
- Securities fraud – Also called “stock fraud” or “investment fraud,” this crime is based on providing false information to influence investors' decisions in the stock or commodities market.
- Mortgage fraud – Misrepresentation to gain loan approval is considered mortgage fraud.
The offense level and potential sentence you face, if convicted, is heavily dependent on the amount of money the government claims was stolen. Often, this figure is inflated by the investigative agency because they might not fully understand where the money went, why it was transferred, or how it was moved. While there may be perfectly legitimate explanations, the government rarely investigates these upfront. That's why it's vital to have counsel that understands how to defend your legal rights properly.
We understand that your specific situation requires individualized attention, and we are dedicated to providing just that.
No Case is Hopeless
We Don't Back Down. Ever.
Explore some of our recent wins.
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Case Dismissed CLEVELAND V. AL-NAZER (2012 TRC 040781)
Our client was accused of driving while under the influence of drugs, or alcohol.
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Not Guilty At Trial ROCKY RIVER V. D.F.
Client was charged with domestic violence against his wife.
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Plea and Record Expunged STATE V. BAILEY, CUYAHOGA
Client was accused of stealing tens of thousands of dollars worth of property.
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Charges Dismissed State v. Beckwith, Cuyahoga County
Student charged with the manufacturing of ecstasy.
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Case Dismissed STATE V. J.S. (A JUVENILE) YOUNGSTOWN
Local counsel pushed for a plea to one of the sex related charges.
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Acquittal State v. Tevin Biles
Client was identified as one of the alleged shooters at a New Year’s Eve party.
Your Rights During an Investigation or Arrest
When facing a white collar crime investigation, understanding your rights at every stage is essential. Whether you are approached by investigators or have already been arrested, you are entitled to legal representation and to remain silent until you have spoken with your attorney. Frequently, investigators from state or federal agencies will attempt to ask questions or review business records early in the process—anything you share can impact the direction of your case in Cleveland or surrounding areas.
Having a knowledgeable white collar criminal defense Cleveland attorney involved as soon as possible can ensure your rights are protected during interviews, searches, and any formal proceedings. Early legal intervention may lead to the exclusion of improperly obtained evidence or the possibility of reducing the scope of the investigation. Ohio law and federal standards require certain procedures during search warrants or interrogations, so your counsel will review every action for potential rights violations.
Knowing exactly what to do in these situations can make a critical difference:
- Politely decline interviews until you have legal counsel, even if investigators claim your cooperation is necessary.
- Do not consent to search of your property or business unless a valid warrant is presented and reviewed by your attorney.
- Seek advice immediately if you receive subpoenas or official notices regarding records or testimony at courts such as the Cuyahoga County Justice Center.
Defenses Against White Collar Crimes
Common defenses we may pursue include:
- Lack of intent: Many white collar crimes require proof that the accused acted intentionally and deliberately. If there is no clear intent to defraud or deceive, the case may not stand.
- Insufficient evidence: Without concrete proof of wrongdoing, the prosecution may not meet the burden of proof required for a conviction.
- Entrapment: If law enforcement induced you to execute a crime you would not have otherwise executed, we may raise entrapment as a defense.
- Mistaken identity: White collar investigations sometimes implicate the wrong individual, particularly in complex business operations involving many people.
- Constitutional violations: Evidence obtained through illegal searches or seizures can often be excluded, weakening the prosecution’s case.
What Are the Penalties for White Collar Crimes?
The specific sentence will vary based on the charges and amount of money involved, but common penalties may include:
- Substantial fines and restitution
- Long-term prison or jail sentences
- Probation or supervised release
- Loss of professional licenses
- Damage to re
Contact Our White Collar Crime Lawyer in Cleveland Today
Being investigated or charged with a white collar crime can feel overwhelming. The legal process is often lengthy, complicated, and emotionally draining, especially when your career, livelihood, and reputation are on the line.
The attorneys at Patituce & Associates have successfully defended individuals and corporations in high-stakes state and federal white collar cases. We bring a practical, trial-tested approach to every case, focusing on minimizing your exposure and preserving your future. Don’t wait until charges are filed or a court date is set—contact us now to take control of your situation and protect your rights.
Discuss your optionsin a free case review with our Cleveland white collar crime attorneys today! Call us at (440) 771-1175.
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We Know the Legal System
Our criminal defense attorneys understand the legal system and local courts, helping you navigate your case efficiently and avoid costly mistakes.
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We Give You Peace of Mind
Being charged with a crime is overwhelming. With our team on your side, you can focus on your life while an experienced professional handles your defense.
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We Fight For Your Rights
Police and prosecutors sometimes push the limits of the law. We work to protect your rights and prevent unconstitutional evidence from being used against you.
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We Build A Strategic Defense
Fighting criminal charges requires a strong strategy. Our experienced team builds a defense tailored to the specific facts of your case.
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We Work to Mitigate Consequences
One of the main benefits of hiring our Ohio criminal defense attorneys is our ability to help reduce the potential consequences of a conviction.
