Los Angeles White Collar Crime Defense: Understanding California White Collar Crime Charges

Facing white collar crime charges in Los Angeles can lead to severe consequences, including jail or prison time, substantial fines, restitution, and a criminal record that significantly impacts your employment and professional reputation. In California, white collar crimes involve non-violent offenses typically motivated by financial gain, such as embezzlement, fraud, identity theft, and forgery, prosecuted under statutes like California Penal Code § 503, § 470, and § 530.5. At Rogers | Beltran LLP, our experienced Los Angeles white collar crime defense attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome. Below, we explain white collar crime charges, what the prosecution must prove, common defenses, potential penalties, and critical information to help you navigate these complex cases.

Types of White Collar Crime Charges in California

White collar crimes in California encompass a range of non-violent financial offenses, often involving deception or breach of trust. Common charges include:

1. Embezzlement (PC § 503)

  • Description: Involves unlawfully taking money or property entrusted to you by another person, such as an employer or client (e.g., misappropriating company funds).
  • Key Factors: A “wobbler” offense, charged as a misdemeanor or felony based on the value of the property or criminal history.

2. Fraud (PC § 470 et seq.)

  • Description: Involves intentional deception for financial gain, such as insurance fraud, credit card fraud, or real estate fraud.
  • Key Factors: Can be a misdemeanor or felony depending on the type and scale of the fraud.

3. Identity Theft (PC § 530.5)

  • Description: Involves unlawfully obtaining and using another person’s personal information (e.g., Social Security number, credit card details) for fraudulent purposes.
  • Key Factors: A wobbler offense; severity depends on the extent of harm or prior convictions.

4. Forgery (PC § 470)

  • Description: Involves creating, altering, or using false documents (e.g., checks, contracts) with intent to defraud.
  • Key Factors: A wobbler offense; penalties vary based on the value or impact of the forgery.

5. Related Charges

  • Description: White collar crimes may be charged alongside related offenses, such as:
    • PC § 496 (receiving stolen property).
    • PC § 186.11 (aggravated white collar crime enhancement for large-scale fraud).
    • PC § 487 (grand theft, if property value exceeds $950).
  • Key Factors: Multiple charges can increase penalties and complicate defense strategies.

What the District Attorney Must Prove in a White Collar Crime Case

To secure a conviction for white collar crimes like embezzlement, fraud, identity theft, or forgery, the Los Angeles DA must prove specific elements beyond a reasonable doubt, depending on the charge:

For Embezzlement (PC § 503):

  1. Entrustment: You were entrusted with property or money by the owner.
  2. Intent to Defraud: You intentionally misappropriated the property for personal gain.
  3. No Consent: The owner did not consent to the taking.
  4. Fraudulent Act: You acted with deceit or breach of trust.

For Fraud (PC § 470 et seq.):

  1. Misrepresentation: You made a false representation or concealed a material fact.
  2. Intent to Defraud: You acted with intent to deceive the victim for financial gain.
  3. Reliance: The victim relied on your misrepresentation, leading to harm.
  4. Damage: The victim suffered financial or other loss.

For Identity Theft (PC § 530.5):

  1. Unauthorized Use: You obtained and used another person’s personal information without consent.
  2. Intent: You intended to commit fraud or an unlawful act.
  3. Harm: The victim suffered financial or reputational harm.

For Forgery (PC § 470):

  1. False Document: You created, altered, or used a false document.
  2. Intent to Defraud: You intended to deceive another person or entity.
  3. Material Impact: The document had legal or financial significance.

The DA relies on evidence such as financial records, emails, witness testimony, bank statements, or digital forensics. An experienced Los Angeles white collar crime attorney can challenge this evidence to weaken the prosecution’s case.

Common Defenses to White Collar Crime Charges in Los Angeles

A skilled defense attorney can employ several strategies to fight white collar crime charges. Common defenses include:

  1. Lack of Intent:
    • If you did not intend to defraud or deceive, you may not be guilty.
    • Example: You mistakenly transferred funds without fraudulent intent.
  2. Consent or Authorization:
    • If you had permission to use the property or information, the charge may not apply.
    • Example: An employer authorized you to manage funds, but later claimed embezzlement.
  3. False Allegations:
    • Charges may stem from misunderstandings, workplace disputes, or vindictive claims.
    • Example: A business partner falsely accused you of fraud to gain a competitive advantage.
  4. Insufficient Evidence:
    • The prosecution may lack evidence to prove intent, fraud, or harm.
    • Example: No financial records link you to the alleged crime.
  5. Mistaken Identity:
    • If you were not the person who committed the act, you cannot be held liable.
    • Example: Another individual used your name or credentials in an identity theft scheme.
  6. Property Value Dispute:
    • If the value of the property is $950 or less, felony charges may be reduced to a misdemeanor.
    • Example: The prosecution overestimates the value of misappropriated funds.

At Rogers | Beltran LLP, our Los Angeles white collar crime defense lawyers will thoroughly investigate your case to identify the most effective defense strategy for your situation.

Potential Penalties for White Collar Crime Convictions in California

Penalties for white collar crime convictions depend on the charge, circumstances, and your criminal history. As of July 2025, potential consequences include:

Misdemeanor White Collar Crimes (e.g., PC § 503, § 470, § 530.5)

  • Jail Time: Up to 1 year in county jail.
  • Fines: Up to $1,000 (plus court fees).
  • Probation: Up to 3 years of informal probation, often with restitution or community service.
  • Restitution: Payment to victims for financial losses.

Felony White Collar Crimes (e.g., PC § 503, § 470, § 530.5)

  • Prison Time: 16 months, 2, or 3 years in state prison (up to 7 years for large-scale fraud with enhancements under PC § 186.11).
  • Fines: Up to $10,000 (or higher for significant losses).
  • Probation: Formal probation with conditions like restitution or financial counseling.
  • Felony Record: Impacts employment, housing, and professional licenses.

Additional Consequences

  • Professional License Impacts: Affects licenses for professions like accounting, law, or real estate.
  • Immigration Consequences: Non-citizens may face deportation or visa issues.
  • Civil Lawsuits: Victims may sue for damages, increasing financial liability.
  • Employment Challenges: A criminal record can limit job opportunities, especially in finance or trusted roles.

What Else Should You Know About White Collar Crime Charges in Los Angeles?

White collar crime charges under statutes like PC § 503, § 470, and § 530.5 can have profound impacts, particularly in Los Angeles’s competitive business environment. Here are additional details to understand:

The White Collar Crime Charge Process in Los Angeles

  1. Investigation: Police or federal agencies (e.g., FBI, SEC) investigate using financial records, digital evidence, or witness statements. Investigations may take months due to complexity.
  2. Arrest and Booking: You may be booked and released on bail or your own recognizance.
  3. Court Proceedings: Your case involves arraignment, pre-trial motions, and possibly a trial. Plea deals may reduce charges to misdemeanors or lesser offenses like petty theft (PC § 484).
  4. Diversion Programs: For misdemeanor charges, judicial diversion (PC § 1001.95) may be available for first-time offenders, dismissing charges upon completion of conditions.

Why You Need a Los Angeles White Collar Crime Attorney

Navigating white collar crime charges requires legal expertise due to complex financial evidence and severe consequences. An experienced attorney can:

  • Challenge the prosecution’s evidence, such as proof of intent or financial harm, to seek dismissal or reduction of charges.
  • Negotiate plea deals to lesser charges like theft or disturbing the peace.
  • Represent you in court to protect your rights and reputation.
  • Mitigate impacts on your professional licenses or immigration status.

At Rogers | Beltran LLP, our Los Angeles white collar crime defense attorneys have a proven track record of helping clients mitigate the consequences of these charges.

How to Protect Yourself After a White Collar Crime Charge

  1. Do Not Discuss the Case: Avoid talking about the incident with anyone except your attorney, as statements can be used against you.
  2. Document Evidence: Keep records of financial transactions, communications, or witnesses supporting your defense (e.g., proof of authorization).
  3. Hire an Attorney Immediately: Early intervention can lead to dismissed charges or reduced penalties.
  4. Comply with Court Orders: Follow bail conditions to avoid additional charges.

Los Angeles-Specific Considerations

  • Business Hub: Los Angeles’s role as a financial and entertainment hub increases white collar crime investigations, particularly in industries like real estate, tech, and media.
  • Local Courts: Cases are typically heard in courts like the Los Angeles Superior Court or Downtown Courthouse, each with unique procedures.
  • Police and Federal Enforcement: LAPD and federal agencies use advanced forensic accounting and digital evidence, which can be challenged for errors.

Contact Rogers | Beltran LLP for Experienced White Collar Crime Defense in Los Angeles

A California white collar crime charge under statutes like PC § 503, § 470, or § 530.5 doesn’t have to define your future. At Rogers | Beltran LLP, our dedicated Los Angeles white collar crime attorneys are committed to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome. Whether you’re facing embezzlement, fraud, identity theft, or forgery charges, we have the expertise to build a strong defense.

Call us today at (213) 900-9004 or fill out our online contact form for a free, confidential consultation. Let us help you navigate the legal process and safeguard your future.