How White-Collar Crimes Are Investigated and Defended in Texas

 Posted on April 18, 2025 in White Collar Crimes

White-collar crimes may not involve physical violence, but their consequences can be just as severe-leading to hefty fines, restitution, and even prison time. In Texas, law enforcement agencies aggressively investigate financial crimes, often using extensive resources to build cases. If you are under investigation or facing charges, understanding the process and securing strong legal representation is critical.

At Barbieri Law Firm, we specialize in defending individuals accused of white-collar offenses. This blog will explore how these crimes are investigated and the defense strategies that can protect your rights and future.

What Are White-Collar Crimes?

White-collar crimes typically involve deception, fraud, or financial misconduct. Common offenses in Texas include:

• Fraud (wire fraud, mail fraud, securities fraud)
• Embezzlement (misappropriation of funds from an employer or client)
• Money laundering
• Bribery and corruption
• Identity theft and credit card fraud
• Insurance fraud
• Tax evasion
• Corporate and healthcare fraud (Medicare/Medicaid fraud, PPP loan fraud)

These crimes are often prosecuted at the state and federal levels, depending on the scope and nature of the offense.

How White-Collar Crimes Are Investigated

White-collar crime investigations are highly detailed and can take months or even years to develop. Unlike traditional crimes, where arrests may happen quickly, financial crime cases involve careful scrutiny of bank records, emails, contracts, and digital transactions. Here's how authorities build their cases:

1. Law Enforcement Agencies Involved

• Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Investigates large-scale fraud, cybercrimes, and financial crimes.
• Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) – Handles stock market-related fraud and insider trading cases.
• Internal Revenue Service (IRS) – Focuses on tax fraud and evasion.
• Texas Attorney General's Office & Local Law Enforcement – Investigates state-level fraud and embezzlement cases.

2. Surveillance and Evidence Collection

Authorities may monitor bank transactions, phone records, and emails to establish fraudulent activity. In some cases, investigators rely on whistleblowers or confidential informants to provide insider information.

3. Grand Jury Investigations

For federal cases, prosecutors often use grand juries to issue subpoenas and review evidence before filing formal charges. If you receive a subpoena, it's crucial to consult an attorney immediately to avoid self-incrimination.

How White-Collar Crimes Are Defended

Being accused of a white-collar crime doesn't mean you're guilty. With the right defense strategy, you may be able to reduce charges, negotiate a favorable outcome, or even get the case dismissed. Here's how a skilled defense attorney can help:

1. Challenging the Evidence

Financial crime cases rely on massive amounts of documents and electronic data. A strong defense team will analyze the prosecution's evidence for errors, inconsistencies, or violations of due process. If investigators obtained evidence through illegal searches or without proper warrants, it may be inadmissible in court.

2. Lack of Intent

Many white-collar crimes require proof that the defendant intentionally engaged in fraud or deception. If you were unaware of fraudulent activity or made an unintentional financial mistake, this could serve as a strong defense.

3. Insufficient Evidence

Prosecutors must prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is circumstantial or lacks clear proof of wrongdoing, an experienced attorney can argue for dismissal or acquittal.

4. Negotiating Plea Agreements

In some cases, avoiding trial may be the best option. Skilled defense attorneys can negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges, alternative sentencing (such as restitution instead of prison time), or probation.

5. Protecting Your Reputation

White-collar crime allegations can damage your personal and professional life. A proactive defense strategy can help manage public perception and prevent unnecessary harm to your career and financial stability.

Why Choose Barbieri Law Firm?

At Barbieri Law Firm, we understand the complexities of white-collar crime cases. Our experienced attorneys have successfully defended clients facing serious financial crime allegations. We use a strategic, aggressive approach to protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.

If you are under investigation or facing charges for a white-collar crime, don't wait to seek legal help. Contact Barbieri Law Firm today to schedule a consultation and begin building your defense.