Virginia Beach White Collar Crime Defense Attorney

Knowledgeable White Collar Crime Defense Lawyer in Virginia Beach

Non-violent, financially motivated crimes do not make the news as often as other criminal offenses, but the penalties can be just as serious. If you have been accused of a fraud crime or a similar violation, you need an attorney with a strong understanding of the law. Reach out to a Virginia Beach white collar crime defense attorney today.

At Castellano Law Firm PLLC, we are ready to help people accused of non-violent offenses in corporate or professional settings. As a solo attorney, Vincent Castellano approaches every case with a personalized legal strategy, so you can rest assured that you will be served by an attentive advocate.

Representing People Facing Identity Theft Charges

Identity theft in Virginia involves using another person's identifying information without their authorization and with the intent to defraud. Identifying information can include a person's name, Social Security number, date of birth, bank account numbers, credit card information, and other data that can be used to access financial accounts or establish credit.

The offense does not require that a financial loss actually occur. Using the information with fraudulent intent is enough to support a charge. Identity theft is a felony in Virginia. The penalties increase based on the number of victims and the total value of the financial loss involved.

Cases involving multiple victims or significant financial harm can result in substantial prison time and restitution obligations. These cases are often built on digital records, financial transaction histories, and account access logs, and how that evidence was obtained and whether it actually connects the accused to the conduct are both worth reviewing carefully.

Defending Against Embezzlement Charges in Virginia Beach

Embezzlement involves the fraudulent taking of property or money that was entrusted to a person through their employment or another position of trust. Unlike traditional theft, embezzlement does not involve taking something that was never in the accused person's possession. The charge arises when a person who was legitimately given access to funds or property diverts it for their own use.

The penalties for embezzlement in Virginia follow the same framework as larceny. Embezzlement of property valued under $1,000 is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Embezzlement of $1,000 or more is a felony carrying up to 20 years in prison.

In cases involving large sums or a pattern of conduct over time, prosecutors may file multiple counts, which can compound the exposure significantly.

Common Fraud Crimes

Fraud charges in Virginia cover a broad range of conduct, but the common thread is an intentional misrepresentation made to obtain money, property, or some other benefit at another person's expense. Some of the more frequently charged fraud offenses include:

• Credit card fraud, which involves using another person's card or account information without authorization
• Check fraud, which covers writing checks on accounts with insufficient funds or forging another person's signature
• Insurance fraud, which involves making false or misleading claims to obtain insurance benefits
• Mortgage fraud, which can arise from misrepresentations made during the loan application process
• Wire fraud, which involves using electronic communications to carry out a fraudulent scheme

Fraud cases are frequently prosecuted at both the state and federal level, and federal fraud charges carry their own sentencing guidelines that can result in significant prison time. The evidence in these cases tends to be document-heavy, and a careful review of the financial records, communications, and timeline behind the charge is an important part of any defense.

Contact a Virginia Beach White Collar Crime Defense Lawyer

White collar crime charges can dismantle a career and a reputation. Call 757-724-0073 or contact our Virginia Beach, VA white collar crime defense attorney today to schedule a free consultation with Castellano Law Firm PLLC.