Combatting Philadelphia Securities Fraud and Embezzlement Charges

Combatting Philadelphia Securities Fraud and Embezzlement Charges

What Constitutes Securities Fraud in Philadelphia?

Securities fraud refers to deceptive practices relating to the buying and selling of financial investments. Under both Pennsylvania and federal law, it’s illegal to knowingly provide false or misleading information about securities to investors. Common examples of securities fraud charges in Philadelphia include:

• Insider trading – Using non-public information to make investment decisions
• Ponzi schemes – Using money from new investors to pay earlier investors extremely high returns
• Misrepresenting financial performance – Lying about company profits, debts, assets etc. to investors
• Manipulating stock prices – Artificially inflating or deflating stock prices through illegal trading practices

Violations can lead to both civil and criminal charges. Potential penalties include fines, restitution payments, and even prison time in severe cases.

What is Embezzlement Under Philadelphia Law?

Embezzlement involves stealing money or property that has been entrusted to someone due to their occupation or role. Under Pennsylvania law, it is a felony to unlawfully take property valued over $2,000 that you have custody of for another person or organization.

Common embezzlement scenarios in Philadelphia include:

• Company executives stealing from businesses
• Lawyers or accountants stealing client funds
• Non-profit employees stealing donations
• Government officials stealing public money

Like fraud charges, embezzlement convictions often involve substantial fines and jail time.

Fighting the Charges With an Experienced Attorney

Trying to navigate Philadelphia securities fraud or embezzlement charges alone can be extremely difficult. These cases often involve complex financial transactions and reams of documentary evidence. An attorney experienced in fighting economic crimes can analyze the prosecution’s case, identify weaknesses, and build a strong defense.

Potential securities fraud and embezzlement defenses include:

• You lacked necessary intent – the prosecution must prove you knowingly set out to defraud investors or steal funds.
• Transactions were legal under industry standards.
• Someone else is actually responsible for the crime.
• There are procedural flaws or errors in how evidence was collected or charges filed.

An attorney can also negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or punishments. And if necessary, they can vigorously defend your case in front of a judge and jury.

Finding the Right Securities Fraud and Embezzlement Lawyer

Facing criminal fraud or embezzlement charges in Philadelphia can turn your whole world upside down. Your freedom, finances, career, and reputation may be on the line. That’s why selecting the right legal defense team is critical.

Look for a law firm or attorney with specific experience fighting securities fraud and white collar crime cases in Philadelphia. Ask about their track record getting charges reduced or dismissed. Also make sure they have knowledge of both Pennsylvania and federal law.

It also helps to choose a lawyer you feel comfortable opening up to about what happened. Providing full case details allows them to craft the strongest defense. However, good attorneys won’t judge you for what occurred.

Once retained, your lawyer will handle collecting evidence, filing motions, developing your testimony, and presenting arguments to cast doubt on the prosecution’s charges. With an aggressive defense, you can avoid harsh convictions and get back to your normal life.