Have you been charged with committing a white collar crime? Lawyers in Chicago are available to help you fight for your rights and defend you on your day in court.
If you’re facing these serious charges, it’s imperative that you get professional legal help as soon as possible.
To help you, we’ve created a list of the top white collar defense lawyers in Chicago. Each of the names on this list is experienced in Chicago white collar criminal defense. They are ready to defend you, and to give you the best opportunity for a fighting chance on your day in court.
But before we share our list of the top white collar defense lawyers in Chicago, let’s get a better understanding of what white collar crime actually means.
What are White Collar Crimes?
White collar crimes are a classification of non-violent, yet serious crimes, that cover a broad range of activities. They typically involve schemes around deception and fraud used for financial gain. They can be committed by individuals, or entire organizations in a business setting.
Some examples of white collar crimes include:
- Money Laundering – The process of making money that was earned from criminal activity look as if it came from a legitimate source.
- Identity Theft – Using another person’s identity information to benefit financially, often committed by obtaining a social security number or credit card to open accounts or make charges.
- Tax Evasion – Willfully and intentionally withholding or falsifying information on a tax return to minimize the amount of tax owed is a form of white collar crime.
- Corporate Fraud – Includes falsification of accounting, misrepresentation of financial earnings, insider trading, misuse of corporate property for personal gain, kickbacks.
- Health Care Fraud – The act of intentionally deceiving health care systems or insurance companies to receive benefits or payments that are unlawful.
- Securities Fraud – A form of fraudulent investment that seeks to scam potential investors with the promise of low risk and high reward investments.
- Piracy/Intellectual Property Theft – Illegal copying and distribution of music, movies, software or other forms of creative expression, as well as trade secrets and infringement of copyright.
These are just a few examples of white collar crimes.
Potential Penalties for White Collar Crimes
The potential penalties for white collar crimes can vary based on the nature of the crime committed. While all white collar crimes are serious, not all are considered felonies. Depending on the circumstances, some forms of white collar crime may be considered misdemeanors.
Whether you are convicted of a misdemeanor or felony, punishments can carry significant penalties, including:
- Fines – Fine ranging from a few thousand dollars to millions of dollars may be administered.
- Probation – Smaller scale white collar crimes may see the defendant placed on probation rather than sentenced to prison.
- Imprisonment – Severe cases of white collar crime, such as large scale financial fraud involving significant sums of money, may carry substantial jail time.
- Restitution – The court may order the defendant to pay money stolen back to the victim, known as restitution.
- Forfeiture – If found guilty, the government may seize real estate, money, assets, and other properties.
What to Look for In White Collar Crimes Lawyers In Chicago
If you have been arrested in Chicago on charges of committing a form of white collar crime, it’s imperative that you get help from a white collar attorney.
While there are many qualified Chicago white collar criminal defense lawyers available, you’ll want to make sure that any one you choose has significant experience defending white collar crimes. The more experienced your attorney, the more familiar they’ll be with the local legal landscape, and the better chance you’ll have at a favorable outcome.
In addition, we recommend looking for Chicago, IL white collar defense attorneys who have authentic positive reviews from former clients. This can help you understand their history and reputation for defending white collar criminal charges.
Lastly, while it is not 100% necessary, look for Chicago, IL white collar defense attorneys who offer a free initial consultation. Having a chance to speak with several white collar lawyers before selecting one can help you choose the one who’s approach and overall style will fit your case best.
Top White Collar Defense Lawyers in Chicago
We know there are many white collar crimes lawyers in Chicago to choose from, which is why we’ve compiled a list of the best.
Each of the Chicago, IL white collar defense attorneys on this list have experience defending all manner of white collar crimes both in Illinois and at the federal level. These white collar attorneys have earned a reputation for defending their clients vigorously in a court of law, and will fight for you on your day in court.
Don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Contact these top white collar defense lawyers in Chicago today.
1. Sami Azhari
Law Firm: Federal Criminal Lawyer
We understand Chicago white collar criminal defense. Sami is an attorney and principal of Azhari LLC, with over 14 years of experience as a trial lawyer. He has tried over 100 jury and bench trials. Sami Azhari is recognized as one of the top white collar defense lawyers in Chicago. Sami has also defended clients in federal cases around the United States. Our firm is familiar with Illinois local rules for each jurisdiction, as well as the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure.
2. Vadim Glozman
Law Firm: Glozman Law
When the stakes are high and you have been arrested for a federal crime, find a lawyer you can trust. Call Vadim.
3. Mike Leonard
Law Firm: Leonard Trial Lawyers LLC
We aggressively defend individuals and companies in the trial of Federal criminal cases. Your Case. Our Cause. Call today!
4. Dena M. Singer
Law Firm: Bedi & Singer, LLP
Experience matters. We are trial lawyers focused on federal & white collar crimes and will have your back. Call now.
5. Steven Greenberg
Law Firm: Greenberg Trial Lawyers
Over 30yrs experience-successfully tried hundreds of cases, including over 100 jury trials. No case is too big or too small.