White-Collar Crime Lawyers in Tampa, FL

Although victims of white-collar crimes may not suffer critical injuries or death, that does not mean their lives are not turned upside down when taken advantage of by those they trust. If you have been accused of a white-collar crime, you must take action to protect your reputation and future.

Contact our experienced and knowledgeable white-collar crime lawyers in Tampa, FL, at Metcalf Falls, Criminal Defense Attorneys, to prepare an aggressive defense strategy. Contact our office today for a confidential consultation when you call 813-258-4800.

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What Is White-Collar Crime?

A white-collar crime is a criminal offense where an individual is accused of theft or fraud. Generally, white-collar crimes occur in large corporations or wherever someone is responsible for another person’s money.

In certain instances, individuals could also face charges under the Racketeering Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act (RICO), which often carries far more severe penalties than standard white-collar crimes.

Multiple local, state, and federal government agencies could be involved in your investigation. Therefore, you must have an experienced legal defender prepared to protect your future and reputation.

Types of White-Collar Crime We Handle

Most types of financially based criminal offenses are considered white-collar crimes. Some of the most prevalent types of white-collar crimes our team handles at Metcalf Falls, Criminal Defense Attorneys, P.A. include:

  • Money laundering
  • Insurance fraud
  • Computer crimes
  • Theft
  • Embezzlement
  • Fraud
  • Healthcare fraud
  • Mortgage fraud
  • Bribery
  • Forgery
  • RICO crimes
  • Check kiting schemes
  • Employee theft
  • Mail fraud
  • Credit card fraud
  • Conspiracy to commit fraud
  • Ponzi schemes
  • Pyramid schemes
  • The exploitation of disabled adults or the elderly

Money Laundering

Money laundering involves using multiple transactions to hide the source of illegally obtained funds. Generally, money laundering charges will apply alongside wire fraud, mail fraud, or other unlawful financial transactions.

Fraud

Fraud can take multiple forms. For example, with wire or mail fraud, you could be accused of using electronic communication to commit a white-collar criminal offense. If convicted, you could spend up to 20 years in federal prison and pay fines of up to $500,000 for businesses.

Another type of fraud is known as healthcare fraud. Here, schemers will use unlawful means to obtain funding from healthcare programs run by the federal government or private insurance companies.

There is also bank fraud which involves defrauding financial institutions or attempting to defraud them for a fraudster’s financial gain. This may include forging signatures, identity theft, or check kiting. According to 18 U.S.C. Section 1344, if you are found guilty of bank fraud, you can spend up to $1 million in fines and up to 30 years in federal prison.

Racketeering and RICO

The RICO Act was passed in 1970 and designed to combat organized crime. Anyone employed by or associated with criminal enterprises could be charged with racketeering and RICO charges if they show a pattern of collecting unlawful debts or racketeering activities. This includes crimes committed through coercion or extortion.

Generally, RICO crimes involve using a business to run unlawful or criminal activities. For example, a coffee shop could be a smokescreen for money laundering by a criminal enterprise. If convicted, you could be fined up to $250,000 and face up to 20 years in federal prison.

The RICO Act also allows the Attorney General to seize assets acquired from criminal activities, including businesses and homes.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement is one of the most well-known types of white-collar crimes. It occurs when an individual overseeing and handling another party’s funds steals or misapplies them for their financial gain.

What Are the Penalties for White-Collar Crime in Florida?

The types of criminal penalties you could face if convicted of a white-collar crime in Tampa, FL, vary widely depending on the charge. For example, someone charged with a RICO crime would face different penalties than they would for embezzlement.

You could also face harsher consequences for federal charges. In federal court, the penalties often include longer incarceration and higher fines. Some of the factors taken into consideration when determining potential sentences include:

  • How many alleged victims are involved
  • The type of white-collar crime
  • Whether you have any prior criminal convictions
  • How much money was involved with the white-collar crime
  • Whether there are any mitigating factors present

For example, someone who is charged for the first time with identity theft may face first-degree misdemeanor charges or third-degree felony charges. If convicted, they can spend up to five years in a Florida State prison.

However, if you have multiple convictions for identity theft, your charges could be elevated to a first or second-degree felony. This could increase your prison time to as much as 30 years and lead to $50,000 in fines.

Additionally, individuals convicted of white-collar crimes may have their assets seized and be ordered to pay restitution to the alleged victims in their case.

Possible Defenses Against White-Collar Crime Charges

You can expect your white-collar crime attorney in Tampa, FL, to thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your case and craft a compelling defense strategy. Some types of defenses are used more often in white-collar crime cases than others. These include:

  • Lack of intent to defraud
  • Unlawful search and seizure
  • Entrapment
  • Lack of sufficient evidence
  • Lack of mental capacity to commit a white-collar crime
  • Committing a white-collar crime under duress or due to coercion
  • Affirmative defenses such as involuntary intoxication
  • Failure to file charges before the statute of limitations passes
What Our Clients Are Saying

Brett is the best attorney I’ve ever had. I would recommend his services to anyone in need.
Pink Taylor

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06.07.2021

“James Falls did an amazing job helping my son get some charges dismissed. He communicated with us and explained situations where we would’ve otherwise been clueless to maneuver the justice system. Highly recommend their service!”

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Sherri Albert

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05.20.2021

“This firm is the real deal … James does not mess around when it comes to his clients. Very professional.”

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Adrian Reyes

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01.20.2021

“Brett Metcalf is the best lawyer in the Tampa Bay area. He puts 100% into his work and goes far and beyond what you would expect out of a lawyer. If it wasn’t for Brett and Sam, my husband and…

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Janice Luke

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11.19.2020

“This guy treated me like I was a paying customer. He didn’t give me his opinion, he got on the phone to two separate places and got answers. Very impressed. Great free consultation. Telicia Rose went above and beyond in…

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Lee Yates

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09.18.2020

5 Stars Review 5

Samantha

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08.03.2020

“Brett is an awesome professional attorney! I highly recommend him. Great responsive time and needed information.I will be calling Brett anytime legal advice is needed!!!! GREAT JOB BRETT”

5 Stars Review 5

Heidi Taylor

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07.07.2020

5 Stars Review 5

Latisha Walker

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06.25.2020

“Mr.Metcalf was very quick to call me back for a consultation, even though it was just a consultation. I give him 5 stars for being quick to call me back, was very professional and informative he talked to me as…

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Anthony Garcia

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06.20.2020

“Great attorney.”

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Jesse P. (Big J)

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06.18.2020

“Excellent lawyer.”

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Shell 4evr

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02.27.2019

“Extremely professional and clearly the sharpest tool in any toolbox. Set the tone in the courtroom. This has to be one of the best law offices in Tampa. Thanks, Brett.”

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Daniel Turner

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08.06.2016

“Brett made the process as easy as possible for me on my end, letting me know all options and possible outcomes based on my choices. He was also very attentive and quick to respond to my questions.”

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Clay

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08.06.2016

“I could not be any happier with my experience with Metcalf Falls, Criminal Defense Attorneys, P.A. I would advise anyone who needs legal action to choose wisely and choose him for multiple reasons.”

5 Stars Review 5

Marty McPhly

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08.08.2016

“In late 2015, I was in need of a lawyer who could help me. Looking on the internet and asking friends if they knew any great ones was looking pretty bad. Then my younger brother told me about a lawyer…

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Elijah Turner

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08.14.2019

“He did an amazing job for me in Polk County! When I got involved in a situation that needed a criminal lawyer, I was terrified. Having only lived in Florida a few years, I was not prepared for the complexity…

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Lisa Welsh

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08.08.2016

“Brett Metcalf is a top-notch attorney. He also understands that preparation and hard work are keys to success. He possesses the knowledge, the insights, and the advocacy skills to put your legal woes in the past. Equally important, he follows…

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Charles Goddard

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08.10.2016

“Brett Metcalf provides forward-thinking and effective legal counsel. I highly recommend Metcalf Falls, Criminal Defense Attorneys, P.A.”

5 Stars Review 5

Annie Shipherd

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08.12.2016

“Very knowledgeable and compassionate. I always felt like I could contact him with questions at any time. He was extremely thorough with information – I can’t stress that enough! I would definitely hire him again and recommend him to anyone,…

5 Stars Review 5

Christa Murray

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08.13.2016

“Brett Metcalf was the best experience that I’ve ever had with any legal professional! He was understanding, honest, and worked diligently throughout my entire DUI case I had several years back. Even with the odds stacked against me, he was…

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Nathan Hester

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04.05.2017

“Brett helped me win full custody of my kids. Any and every question I had, he was right there to answer and explain the process. He was open and honest about the whole process. Extremely good price… and even better…

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James Woodson

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12.02.2017

“I have consulted with Brett on various issues and have found him to be excellent. He is very practical in potential outcomes on legal issues and very reasonable.”

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Albert Piccolo

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04.06.2017

“Wonderful experience with Brett Metcalf. If I had to do it again, I would not change a thing. It’s a good feeling when you know you’re in good hands and your attorney is genuinely concerned about the outcome of your…

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Gerald

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04.08.2017

“Brett Metcalf is the best lawyer in the Tampa Bay area. He puts 100% into his work and goes far and beyond what you would expect out of a lawyer. If it wasn’t for Brett, my husband and I would…

5 Stars Review 5

Janice Luke

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04.09.2017

“Mr. Metcalf was there for me at the most difficult and life-changing time in my life. I was treated respectfully the whole entire process, despite my embarrassing and shameful mistake. He extended honesty and professional courtesy throughout my case, guiding…

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Sharley Lanigan

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04.10.2017

“If you’ve decided to scroll past all the other positive reviews and find yourself reading mine, I’ll start out by saying Brett’s the man. He handles business efficiently and professionally, with the clients’ best interests in mind at all times….

5 Stars Review 5

Evin O

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06.19.2017

“Brett went far out of his way for my multiple cases and managed to keep me a free man even with all the charges that were put on me. 100% behind him from Plant City.”

5 Stars Review 5

Issac Thomas

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08.06.2018

“Brett is an extremely knowledgeable attorney who is a straight shooter, hard worker, and always willing to go the extra mile to fight for his clients. I’ve had to use him two separate times and was more than pleased with…

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Ryan Belden

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01.11.2019

“Mr. Metcalf is very knowledgeable, friendly, and on top of things. In the midst of my confusion and thoughts of the worst possible outcome, Mr. Metcalf took charge and handled the situation with professionalism and tact. I am very pleased…

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Sherry Violet

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09.18.2019

“Brett is the best attorney I’ve ever had. I would recommend his services to anyone in need. Most lawyers just want the money, ignore your calls, and settle for deals. Not Brett! He answered and returned every call! Every penny…

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Pink Taylor

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Average 5 out of 5 rating based on 44 Reviews

Florida White-Collar Crime FAQs

We understand how confusing white-collar crimes can be. You probably have many unanswered questions about the charges against you and what to expect.

For this reason, we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions regarding white-collar crimes in Florida below. If you have additional questions we did not cover here, do not hesitate to contact our team to discuss your concerns further.

Are white-collar crimes felonies?

White-collar crimes are generally charged at the felony or federal level. The greater the number of alleged victims and the greater the amount of money involved in the alleged scheme will determine whether an individual is charged at the misdemeanor, felony, or federal level.

Who investigates white-collar crimes?

Multiple government agencies investigate white-collar crimes. Some of these agencies include:

  • The United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
  • The Department of Justice (DOJ)
  • The Tampa Police Department
  • The Florida State Police
  • The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
  • The Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
  • The Florida Department of Law Enforcement

What should I do if I’m being investigated?

If you discover you are being investigated for an alleged white-collar crime, one of the best things you can do is get help from a Florida criminal defense lawyer.

Make sure you inform the police that you are exercising your right to remain silent, as anything you say could and will be used against you by law enforcement at trial. You should also avoid discussing the charges against you on social media and never attempt to conceal evidence, as this could harm the outcome of your case.

Will I go to jail for a white-collar crime?

If you are found guilty of a white-collar crime in Tampa, it is certainly possible you could go to jail. However, you can rest easier with the right criminal defense attorney working for you.

Our white-collar crime lawyers will thoroughly investigate the details of your case, negotiate with the district attorney, and work to get the white-collar crime charges against you reduced to a lesser offense. We will determine whether you can enter a pretrial diversion program and avoid going to jail or prison altogether

Get Help From a White-Collar Crime Attorney in Tampa, FL Today

Being accused of a white-collar offense could destroy your reputation and lead to severe criminal penalties. Taking charge of your defense strategy and handling the allegations against you in full force is crucial. An experienced white-collar crimes lawyer in Tampa, FL, at Metcalf Falls, Criminal Defense Attorneys, P.A. can help you negotiate with the prosecutor and present a powerful defense strategy so you can get back to your life.

Our firm offers confidential consultations to individuals facing white-collar crime charges across Tampa and surrounding cities. Schedule your defense strategy session today by calling our office at 813-258-4800 or completing our quick contact form today.