White collar crimes are nonviolent offenses that often involve financial transactions, computer systems, or public trust. But make no mistake—the consequences can be just as serious as violent crimes. A single allegation of financial wrongdoing can cost you your job, destroy your reputation, and lead to years in prison.
At Van Elswyk Law, we defend people throughout Florida who have been charged with white collar crimes. Whether the accusation comes from a local agency or a federal investigation, we know how to respond. We’ll guide you through the process and help you protect everything you’ve worked for.
Beyond Securities Fraud: Common White Collar Charges
Securities fraud often gets the headlines, but it’s far from the only white collar charge prosecutors pursue. We frequently defend clients facing allegations such as:
Embezzlement
This involves the unauthorized use or theft of money that someone was trusted to manage, often in the workplace. Prosecutors must prove intent, not just that the funds were mismanaged or misplaced.
Money Laundering
Money laundering charges typically involve the attempt to disguise illegally obtained funds by routing them through legitimate financial channels. You can be charged even if you weren’t the original source of the money—simply being involved in the transfer or having knowledge of the scheme can result in charges.
Tax Evasion
Failing to report income, overstating deductions, or simply not filing tax returns can trigger criminal tax charges. These cases often rely on audits and financial records, but they can be challenged.
Each of these charges carries the potential for jail time, hefty fines, and permanent damage to your future. And in many cases, the government has already spent months building a case before you even know you’re a target.
What We Look for When Building a Defense
White collar charges often revolve around financial records, emails, audit trails, and interviews. But those same details can be used in your favor.
We take the time to examine:
- Intent – Were your actions actually deliberate, or was there a misunderstanding or mistake?
- Evidence quality – Was the financial data interpreted correctly? Were records incomplete, outdated, or misleading?
- Involvement – Were you simply connected to someone who committed a crime, or are they overstating your role?
- Procedures – Did investigators follow the law when searching your devices or questioning you?
We know the pressure these cases create. People often panic and make statements that are later used against them. That’s why we encourage clients to contact us early, before charges are filed, if possible, so we can work to shape the outcome from the start.
Why Experience Matters in White Collar Defense
White collar cases can be complex. They involve layers of documents, multiple agencies, and often both state and federal laws. Prosecutors may spend months preparing a case. You deserve a defense team that’s equally committed.
Brice Van Elswyk brings a unique perspective to these cases. Before becoming a criminal defense attorney, he worked as an investment banker, which has provided him with a firsthand understanding of complex financial systems, corporate structures, and regulatory scrutiny. That background helps us analyze allegations from every angle.
We’ve represented clients in Florida charged with all kinds of financial crimes. We know how to challenge the assumptions made by auditors, law enforcement, and even forensic accountants. Our goal is to help you resolve the case with the least possible damage, whether that means getting the charges dropped, negotiating a favorable deal, or fighting for you at trial.
White collar defense also involves protecting your reputation. We’ll treat your case with discretion and fight to preserve your personal and professional future.
Speak With Van Elswyk Law Today
If you’re facing white collar crime charges, don’t wait to get help. Every conversation, every document, and every move you make from this point forward could affect your case.
At Van Elswyk Law, we understand what’s at stake. We’ll work with you directly, answer your questions, and build a defense tailored to your situation. Whether you’re being investigated or already charged, we’re ready to step in. Call today to schedule a confidential consultation. Let’s start defending your future.