Charlotte White Collar Crimes Attorney

Defending White Collar Crime Charges in North Carolina

Being accused of a white collar crime in North Carolina can have serious legal, financial, and personal consequences. Even though these crimes are non-violent, convictions can result in heavy fines, loss of professional licenses, damage to your reputation, and lengthy prison sentences.

If you are facing allegations of a white collar crime, it is critical to contact an experienced Charlotte white collar crime lawyer immediately. At Randall Law PLLC, our criminal defense attorneys have over 35 years of combined experience defending clients against complex financial and corporate crimes under both North Carolina and federal law. We also have a Board Certified Specialist in criminal law, giving our clients unmatched expertise and advocacy.

Call (980) 237-4579 today or fill out our online form to schedule a confidential consultation with one of our attorneys.

What Are White Collar Crimes?

White collar crimes are non-violent offenses in which an individual or organization gains an unlawful benefit, typically financial, through deceit, fraud, or misrepresentation. Unlike crimes involving physical violence, white collar offenses often rely on manipulation, concealment, or exploitation of trust.

These crimes can take many forms, including:

• Money, Property, or Land: Illegally obtaining or misusing funds, assets, or real estate through embezzlement, theft, or fraudulent transactions.
  
• Business Advantages: Gaining competitive or personal advantages in a corporate or professional setting, such as insider trading, kickbacks, or falsifying records to secure contracts.
  
• Concealment of Other Criminal Activity: Using deception or falsified documentation to hide illegal activity, including tax evasion, money laundering, or financial reporting fraud.
  

While these crimes do not involve physical harm, North Carolina law treats white collar offenses seriously, with severe penalties including felony convictions, fines, restitution, and prison sentences. Common examples include fraud, embezzlement, identity theft, forgery, and extortion, all of which can impact your professional and personal life for years to come.

At Randall Law PLLC, our Charlotte white collar crime attorneys understand the complexities of both state and federal white collar law. We work diligently to investigate your case thoroughly, challenge the evidence against you, and build a strategic defense to protect your rights and minimize the long-term consequences of a conviction. Our goal is to help you navigate this legal process with confidence and to fight aggressively for the best possible outcome.

Common Types of White Collar Crime in North Carolina

At Randall Law PLLC, our Charlotte white collar crime attorneys handle a wide range of complex financial and corporate crimes. White collar offenses often involve deception, misrepresentation, or abuse of trust and can carry serious penalties, including felony convictions, fines, and prison time. Some of the most common white collar crimes we defend against include:

Embezzlement (NCGS 14-90 – 99)

Embezzlement occurs when a person in a position of trust misappropriates funds or property for personal gain. This crime often involves corporate officers, public officials, fiduciaries, or leaders of religious or charitable organizations. The value of the money or property taken typically determines the class of the felony, which directly impacts potential penalties. Our attorneys investigate these cases thoroughly, reviewing financial records, audits, and transactions to build a strong defense.

Fraud

Fraud offenses involve intentionally deceiving or misrepresenting facts to secure an unlawful benefit. North Carolina law recognizes many types of fraud, including:

• Medicaid or Medicare fraud – Submitting false claims for healthcare services or prescriptions
  
• Mortgage fraud (NCGS 14-118.12) – Misrepresentation or falsification in real estate or lending transactions
  
• Financial identity fraud (NCGS 14-113.20 – 113.29) – Using another person’s financial information to obtain money or property
  
• Credit card fraud (NCGS 14-113.13) – Unauthorized use of credit or debit cards for financial gain
  

Fraud charges are almost always felonies and carry significant fines, restitution requirements, and potential prison sentences. Our lawyers carefully review the evidence and challenge fraudulent interpretations to protect our clients’ rights.

Identity Theft (NCGS 14-113.20)

Identity theft is a felony offense that occurs when someone knowingly uses another person’s personal information—including Social Security numbers, bank account details, credit cards, or passwords—to commit fraud or gain a benefit. Even first-time offenders can face severe consequences, making experienced legal representation critical.

Extortion (NCGS 14-118.4)

Extortion is classified as a Class F felony and involves threatening someone to obtain money, property, or an advantage. These threats may be verbal, written, or electronic. Extortion cases often require careful legal strategy to challenge intent and prove lack of coercion.

Forgery (NCGS 14-119 – 125)

Forgery involves falsifying documents or financial instruments to deceive another party. Common examples include:

• Forged checks or promissory notes
  
• Altered deeds, wills, or contracts
  
• Counterfeit stock certificates
  
• Falsified identification or signatures
  

The severity of the charge depends on the type of document, its value, and whether the forgery was part of a larger scheme. Our attorneys analyze the evidence to identify errors, procedural issues, or intent that can help reduce or dismiss charges.

Money Laundering (NCGS 75D-1 – 14)

Often prosecuted under North Carolina’s Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO), money laundering involves concealing illegally obtained funds through falsified transactions, shell companies, or offshore accounts. Charges may also arise from failure to report large transactions or attempts to disguise illicit earnings. Our legal team works to trace and challenge the evidence and protect clients against these complex allegations.

Penalties for White Collar Crimes in North Carolina

White collar crimes in North Carolina are typically charged as felonies, which can carry lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and lasting repercussions on your personal and professional life. North Carolina uses a structured sentencing grid to determine the potential penalties for felony convictions. This grid considers both the class of the felony and your prior criminal record, with higher-level felonies and repeat offenses resulting in harsher penalties.

Felony Classes and Potential Sentences

North Carolina classifies felonies from Class A (most severe) to Class I (least severe), with corresponding prison terms as follows:

• Class A Felony: Life without parole or death
  
• Class B1 Felony: 192–483 months (16–40 years)
  
• Class B2 Felony: 125–314 months (10–26 years)
  
• Class C Felony: 58–146 months (4.8–12 years)
  
• Class D Felony: 51–128 months (4.25–10.5 years)
  
• Class E Felony: 20–50 months (1.5–4 years)
  
• Class F Felony: 13–33 months (just over 1–2.75 years)
  
• Class G Felony: 10–25 months (approximately 1–2 years)
  
• Class H Felony: 5–20 months
  
• Class I Felony: 4–10 months
  

The prior record level, ranging from Level I (0–1 points) to Level VI (18 or more points), further influences your potential sentence. Even first-time offenders can face significant incarceration for serious offenses such as fraud, embezzlement, extortion, or identity theft. Repeat offenses or aggravated circumstances can dramatically increase prison time, fines, and restitution requirements.

Additional Consequences of a Conviction

In addition to jail time, a white collar crime conviction can have long-term impacts on your life, including:

• Loss of professional licenses or certifications required for your career
  
• Difficulty securing employment or professional opportunities
  
• Reputational damage that can affect business and personal relationships
  
• Restitution and financial penalties that may be imposed alongside prison sentences
  

Because the penalties for white collar crimes are severe and the sentencing structure is complex, it is critical to retain an experienced Charlotte white collar crime lawyer. At Randall Law PLLC, our attorneys carefully assess the felony class, prior record level, and mitigating factors to develop a defense strategy aimed at minimizing penalties and protecting your rights.

Defending Against White Collar Crime Charges

At Randall Law PLLC, our Charlotte white collar crime defense lawyers provide aggressive and customized representation for individuals and businesses facing allegations of financial and corporate crimes. White collar cases are often complex, involving extensive financial records, contracts, emails, and other documentation that require careful review. Our attorneys meticulously investigate every aspect of your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your unique situation.

Potential defenses to white collar crime charges include:

Lack of Criminal Intent

Many white collar crimes require proof that the defendant knowingly and intentionally committed the offense. If you lacked the required intent, this can be a strong defense. Our attorneys carefully analyze your actions and the circumstances to determine whether criminal intent can be reasonably challenged.

Mistaken Identity

Complex financial schemes can sometimes wrongly implicate innocent individuals. Our team meticulously reviews all evidence to confirm whether you were truly involved. We work to ensure that any confusion or errors do not result in wrongful charges.

Legitimate Business Transactions

Some alleged white collar offenses may actually involve lawful business activities. Our attorneys differentiate between legitimate transactions and fraudulent acts. By presenting the proper context, we aim to demonstrate that no crime occurred.

Insufficient Evidence

Prosecutors must prove every element of a white collar crime beyond a reasonable doubt. We scrutinize evidence for gaps, inconsistencies, and procedural errors that could weaken the prosecution’s case. Highlighting these weaknesses is key to defending your rights and minimizing potential penalties.

Coercion or Duress

If a defendant acted under pressure, threats, or undue influence, this may form the basis of a legal defense. Our attorneys evaluate whether your actions were the result of coercion or duress. Establishing this can help reduce or eliminate criminal liability.

Entrapment

Entrapment occurs when law enforcement improperly induces an individual to commit a crime they would not have otherwise committed. Our lawyers carefully assess interactions with authorities to determine if entrapment is a viable defense. Using this strategy can significantly strengthen your case.

Our team guides clients through every stage of the criminal process, from the initial investigation to plea negotiations or trial. We communicate clearly, answer your questions, and help you make informed decisions, ensuring you are supported every step of the way.

Why You Need a White Collar Crime Lawyer

Facing a white collar crime charge without experienced legal representation can have devastating consequences, including criminal convictions, financial penalties, and long-term damage to your professional reputation. An experienced attorney from Randall Law PLLC can:

Protect Your Rights During Police Questioning

Being questioned by law enforcement can be intimidating, and anything you say can be used against you. Our attorneys ensure that your rights are protected during every interaction, helping you avoid self-incrimination. We guide you on how to respond and when to exercise your legal protections.

Reduce the Risk of Unnecessary Charges

Not every accusation should result in formal charges. Our team carefully reviews the prosecution’s case to identify weaknesses or inconsistencies. By challenging weak evidence early, we can often advocate for dismissal or reduction of charges, protecting your future.

Challenge the Admissibility of Evidence

The evidence prosecutors rely on must meet strict legal standards. Our attorneys scrutinize documents, communications, and procedures to ensure all evidence is lawful, accurate, and relevant. Successfully challenging inadmissible evidence can significantly strengthen your defense.

Negotiate Favorable Outcomes

When appropriate, we work to reach resolutions outside of trial that minimize consequences. This can include plea agreements, alternative sentencing, or other negotiated outcomes. Our goal is always to achieve the best possible result for your unique situation.

Advocate at Trial

If your case proceeds to court, our attorneys provide aggressive and strategic representation. We carefully present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and highlight weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Our objective is to secure an acquittal or the most favorable verdict possible.

At Randall Law PLLC, we combine deep expertise in North Carolina criminal law, meticulous case preparation, and strategic advocacy to defend clients against all types of white collar crimes, including fraud, embezzlement, identity theft, money laundering, and more. Our goal is always to minimize legal consequences, protect your reputation, and guide you toward the most favorable outcome possible.

Call (980) 237-4579 or submit our online form to schedule a confidential consultation with a top Charlotte white collar crime attorney today.