Have you been accused of a white collar crime in Albuquerque, New Mexico? Jones Criminal Defense Attorneys can help when you call (505) 248 1400. We offer a complimentary consultation with an Albuquerque white-collar crimes lawyer who can review your case and explain your legal options.
White-collar crimes can lead to severe consequences, including substantial fines, restitution, and even imprisonment. These charges often involve complex investigations and aggressive prosecution, so it’s important to have a knowledgeable defense attorney on your side from the start.
Contact us today to receive the guidance and support you need.
Why Choose Jones Criminal Defense Attorneys To Help Me if I’ve Been Accused of a White Collar Crime in Albuquerque?
If you’re facing white collar crime charges in Albuquerque, NM, you need experienced legal representation. Jones Criminal Defense Attorneys has the tools and tenacity to help you through one of the most stressful times in your life.
Here’s why so many clients trust our team:
- Our founder has been recognized by Super Lawyers Rising Stars, a distinction awarded to only a small percentage of attorneys based on peer recognition and professional achievement.
- We represent clients across a wide range of criminal matters, drawing on deep experience in defending against everything from low-level misdemeanors to serious felony charges.
- Our firm handles every stage of the criminal process, including pre-trial motions, courtroom trials, appeals, and post-conviction proceedings, ensuring our clients are supported from start to finish.
If you need help, call today to schedule your free consultation with an Albuquerque criminal defense attorney.
What Are White Collar Crimes in New Mexico?
White collar crimes are typically non-violent offenses committed for financial gain. These cases often arise in professional, financial, or government settings and are prosecuted under state or federal law, depending on their scope and the complexity of the case.
Some common white collar offenses in New Mexico include:
- Embezzlement: Illegally taking money or property you were entrusted with.
- Fraud: Including insurance fraud, healthcare fraud, wire fraud, and tax fraud.
- Identity theft: Using someone else’s personal information for financial gain.
- Forgery: Altering checks, contracts, or documents for deceptive purposes.
- Bribery and public corruption: Offering or accepting something of value to influence a public decision.
- Money laundering: Concealing the origins of illegally obtained money by making it appear legitimate.
These charges may involve thousands of records and are often supported by data from computers, phones, and email accounts. Prosecutors build these cases carefully, and you should have an equally strong defense.
Federal vs. State White Collar Charges
White-collar crimes can be prosecuted under either state or federal law. Federal charges are often more serious and involve agencies like:
- The FBI
- IRS Criminal Investigation Division
- SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission)
- U.S. Department of Justice
Federal cases may involve higher financial losses, interstate transactions, or government-related fraud. Sentences under federal guidelines are typically longer and more rigid than state court penalties.
What Are the Penalties for White Collar Crimes in Albuquerque, New Mexico?
The penalties for white collar crimes depend on the charges, the amount of money involved, and whether the case is filed in state or federal court.
Some of the consequences you could face include:
- Fines: From thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
- Restitution: Paying victims back for financial losses.
- Incarceration: Jail or prison time, especially in cases involving large amounts of money.
- Probation: May be assigned instead of or in addition to jail time.
- Loss of employment or professional licenses: Especially in law, finance, medicine, or government.
- Asset forfeiture: The government may seize money or property related to the alleged crime.
- A criminal record: A criminal record can affect your future housing options, job prospects, and reputation.
Federal cases, in particular, carry harsh mandatory minimums and stringent sentencing guidelines, often resulting in lengthy prison sentences.
What Defenses Can Be Raised if I’m Accused of a White Collar Crime?
There is no one-size-fits-all defense against white-collar charges. Your lawyer will evaluate the facts of your case and develop a strategy tailored to your specific situation. Common defenses include:
- Lack of intent: Many white collar offenses require that you acted “knowingly” or “willfully.” If you didn’t intend to break the law, that’s a key defense.
- Mistaken identity: You may have been falsely accused or wrongly linked to another person’s actions.
- Entrapment: If law enforcement pressured you into committing a crime you otherwise wouldn’t have committed.
- Insufficient evidence: The prosecution must prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Violation of constitutional rights: Evidence obtained through an illegal search and seizure or without a proper warrant may be inadmissible.
Your attorney may also use expert witnesses—such as forensic accountants, computer analysts, or private investigators—to rebut the prosecution’s case.
What Should I Do If I’m Under Investigation for a White Collar Crime?
If you believe you’re under investigation for a white collar crime—even if you haven’t been charged—you should act quickly:
- Don’t speak to investigators without a lawyer: Anything you say can and will be used against you.
- Preserve records: Do not delete emails, documents, or texts—this could result in obstruction charges.
- Avoid discussing the case with coworkers, family, or friends: Even seemingly innocent remarks can be misinterpreted.
- Hire a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible: Early legal intervention could stop charges from being filed or allow you to resolve the case more favorably.
A good attorney can communicate with investigators on your behalf, shield you from legal risks, and begin preparing a defense strategy before charges are filed.
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help if You’ve Been Accused of a White Collar Crime
White collar cases involve massive amounts of data and strict legal procedures. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help by:
- Investigating the allegations thoroughly to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Challenging evidence that may have been obtained unlawfully or is unreliable.
- Negotiating with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges, or secure a favorable plea deal.
- Protecting your rights during questioning, investigation, and trial.
- Preparing a strong defense and presenting it persuasively in court.
Your future, your career, and your freedom are at stake. Don’t risk it by going it alone or relying on an overworked public defender.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Our White Collar Crimes Defense Lawyer
If you’re facing white collar charges in Albuquerque, New Mexico, you don’t have to face them alone. At Jones Criminal Defense Attorneys, we understand the serious impact these accusations can have on your life—and we’re here to help.
An experienced criminal defense attorney can listen to your side, analyze the facts, and build a powerful legal strategy focused on protecting your rights and your future. Call today to schedule your free consultation with an Albuquerque white collar crimes lawyer.
Albuquerque Downtown – By Appointment Only
1011 Lomas Blvd NW #105, Albuquerque, NM 87102
(505) 551-5032
Jones Criminal Defense Attorneys LLC
8205 Spain Rd NE #111, Albuquerque, NM 87109
(505) 551-5032