10 Costly Mistakes to Avoid When Facing White Collar Charges

10 Costly Mistakes to Avoid When Facing White Collar Charges

Dealing with white collar charges can be scary. The laws are complicated. The penalties are severe. And making mistakes can ruin your case.

As someone whose been charged, you want the best chance at beating the case. Or at least reducing the punishment. So you gotta be smart and avoid common mistakes others make.

I wrote this article to help anyone facing charges like fraud, embezzlement, tax evasion, etc. I’m not a lawyer but I researched this stuff a ton. These are 10 big mistakes I learned you need to steer clear of.

Mistake #1: Talking to the Cops Without a Lawyer

When the cops first question you, it’s natural to think you should cooperate. But that can backfire fast. The cops are looking for info to build a case against you. So anything you say can be used against you, even if you’re innocent. Letting them question you without a lawyer there is super risky.

The smartest move is to politely refuse to answer questions until your lawyer is present. I know it seems sketchy, but you gotta protect yourself. The cops aren’t on your side here. Don’t talk and accidentally admit to something that sinks your case!

Mistake #2: Hiding Evidence

It’s natural to want to hide anything that makes you look guilty. But destroying or hiding evidence can make things way worse! That’s another felony charge of obstruction of justice. Plus it makes you look sneaky even if you’re innocent.

The feds will find out anyway. So leaving the evidence alone and being upfront is smarter. Just explain to your lawyer why it doesn’t show what the prosecution claims. Let your lawyer handle it the right way.

Mistake #3: Fleeing the Country

Some people facing serious charges get scared and flee the country. But this is really dumb! First, you become an international fugitive unable to ever return. And you’ll probably get caught eventually anyway.

Plus, fleeing makes you seem crazy guilty even if you’re not. It’s better to face the charges and fight them. Running away screws up your life forever.

Mistake #4: Representing Yourself

White collar cases are super complex, with tricky laws and procedures. So while you can technically represent yourself, doing so is insanely risky. You’re basically guaranteed to mess up your defense unless you’re a legal expert.

Get an experienced white collar defense attorney! It costs money but gives you the best shot at beating or reducing the charges. Don’t foolishly go it alone.

Mistake #5: Picking the Wrong Lawyer

Lots of lawyers handle all types of cases. But for white collar charges, you need someone specialized in this area. An experienced white collar defense attorney knows the complex laws and how to defend them.

So research well and find the right lawyer. Don’t just choose your buddy’s divorce attorney or whoever has the flashiest ads! This decision is too important for that.

Mistake #6: Not Preparing Your Witnesses

If key witnesses testify on your behalf, prepping them is crucial. Sit down and go over the case details and questions they’ll be asked. Make sure their story matches yours!

You don’t want them accidentally contradicting you or saying something harmful. Give them guidance so their testimony helps your case as much as possible.

Mistake #7: Acting Suspicious in Court

How you behave in court matters. Things like avoiding eye contact, fidgeting, whispering to your lawyer, or reacting badly to testimony can make you seem guilty.

I know staying calm is hard when your freedom’s on the line! But act respectful and confident, even if it’s just an act. Keep poker face and fight the urge to act sketchy.

Mistake #8: Not Gathering Evidence

Don’t just rely on your lawyer’s evidence. Gather anything you have proving your innocence: financial records, emails, witness statements, etc. The more evidence the better!

Dig up anything relevant and give it to your lawyer ASAP. You never know what might help get charges dropped or reduced.

Mistake #9: Oversharing on Social Media

It’s tempting to vent on social media when you’re charged. But DON’T! Prosecutors look for anything to use against you. Oversharing gives them ammo.

Stay off social media altogether until your case is over. And tell friends and family to avoid posting about your case too. Don’t let a dumb post sink you!

Mistake #10: Losing Hope

It’s easy to get depressed and lose hope when facing charges. But you gotta stay strong mentally! Maintain the will to fight. Stay positive and keep perspective.

Focus on your defense strategy, not worst case scenarios. Don’t give up! With smart choices, you can beat this.

Facing criminal charges is scary. But you can get through it! Learn from others mistakes. Make smart choices. And never lose hope. You got this!

References:
https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/when-talk-the-police-during-criminal-investigation.html
https://www.justice.gov/jm/criminal-resource-manual-1725-elements-crime-obstruction-justice
https://www.justice.gov/jm/criminal-resource-manual-632-fugitives-justice
https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/representing-yourself-criminal-trial-29503.html
https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/how-find-criminal-defense-lawyer.html
https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/preparing-your-witnesses-trial.html
https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/your-demeanor-court.html
https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/preparing-evidence-criminal-trial.html
https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/social-media-hurts-criminal-defense.html
https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/preparing-yourself-emotionally-criminal-trial.html