White Collar Fraud Crimes: Defending State and Federal Charges in Southern California
At The Law Offices of Kirk Tarman & Associates, we understand the life-changing consequences of being accused of white collar fraud. Whether you’re facing charges in California state courts or federal jurisdictions, these allegations can lead to prison sentences, substantial fines, and lasting harm to your reputation and career.
With over 25 years of experience, our attorneys provide aggressive, strategic defense for clients throughout Rancho Cucamonga, San Bernardino, Riverside, Los Angeles, and Orange counties.
What is White Collar Fraud?
White collar fraud involves non-violent, financially motivated crimes that rely on deceit, manipulation, or a breach of trust to unlawfully obtain money, property, or services. These offenses often occur in corporate, financial, or professional settings, and are prosecuted aggressively in both state and federal courts.
Common State & Federal White Collar Crimes We Defend
Our firm represents clients in cases involving:
Embezzlement – Misappropriating funds or assets entrusted to you (California Penal Code § 503 or 18 U.S.C. § 641 for federal cases).
Fraudulent Schemes – Deceptive practices designed for financial gain, including investment, insurance, and business fraud.
Forgery – Signing someone else’s name or altering documents with intent to defraud (PC § 470; can also result in federal mail or wire fraud charges if interstate commerce is involved).
Grand Theft by False Pretenses – Obtaining money or property through intentional misrepresentation (PC § 487).
Identity Theft – Using someone else’s identifying information without permission (PC § 530.5; or 18 U.S.C. § 1028 for federal charges).
Money Laundering – Concealing criminal proceeds through financial transactions (PC § 186.10; or 18 U.S.C. §§ 1956, 1957 federally).
Mail & Wire Fraud – Using postal or electronic communications to commit fraud (18 U.S.C. §§ 1341, 1343).
Bank & Securities Fraud – Making false statements to financial institutions or investors (18 U.S.C. § 1344 for bank fraud; federal securities laws for investment-related crimes).
California Penal Code Sections for White Collar Crimes
Commonly charged PC sections in state prosecutions include:
PC 470–476: Forgery and check fraud
PC 487: Grand theft by false pretenses
PC 503–515: Embezzlement offenses
PC 530.5: Identity theft
PC 550: Insurance fraud
PC 186.10: Money laundering
Key Federal White Collar Statutes
Federal charges often apply when:
Alleged fraud involves interstate commerce.
The federal government, a federally insured bank, or a government-funded program is affected.
The alleged conduct involves federal tax, securities, or healthcare programs.
Key federal statutes include:
18 U.S.C. § 1341 – Mail Fraud
18 U.S.C. § 1343 – Wire Fraud
18 U.S.C. § 1344 – Bank Fraud
18 U.S.C. § 1028 – Identity Theft and Document Fraud
15 U.S.C. § 78j(b) & SEC Rule 10b-5 – Securities Fraud
Convictions under these statutes can result in lengthy federal prison sentences, significant fines, restitution orders, and asset forfeiture.
Penalties for White Collar Fraud
The consequences of a white collar conviction — whether in state or federal court — can include:
Misdemeanor or Felony Convictions – Many white collar offenses in California are wobblers and can be charged as either, depending on the circumstances.
Lengthy Incarceration – Sentences can include time in county jail, state prison, or federal Bureau of Prisons.
Substantial Financial Penalties – Restitution to victims, large fines, and asset seizure.
Career and Licensing Consequences – Loss of professional licenses, disqualification from contracts, or bans from certain industries.
Immigration Consequences – Non-citizens convicted of fraud may face deportation or denial of immigration benefits.
How We Defend State & Federal Fraud Charges
Our white collar defense team is experienced in both California Superior Courts and federal courts. We develop customized defense strategies based on each client’s unique situation, including:
Early Intervention – Engaging with investigators and prosecutors before charges are filed.
Challenging Evidence – Identifying weaknesses in records, witness statements, search warrants, or investigative procedures.
Disputing Intent – Demonstrating that actions resulted from misunderstandings or mistakes, not criminal intent.
Negotiating Alternative Outcomes – Seeking reduced charges, probation, or diversion programs when appropriate.
Aggressive Trial Advocacy – Defending clients in court when charges cannot be resolved through negotiation.
Why Choose The Law Offices of Kirk Tarman & Associates?
When you face white collar fraud charges in Rancho Cucamonga, San Bernardino, Riverside, Los Angeles, or Orange County, you need a defense team with proven success in both state and federal courts. Our attorneys have over two decades of experience defending complex, high-stakes cases and know how to navigate investigations by the FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, SEC, California DOJ, and other agencies.
Contact The Law Offices of Kirk Tarman & Associates today to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced white collar defense attorney. Protect your rights, your career, and your future.