Crimes may not be as noticeable as people may assume. When we think of crimes, we may think of robberies or murders. We expect it to be harmful to another human being through violence. However, there are other crimes we must remember that are not so violent in nature. Crimes involving fraud and forgery are not physically harmful, but can have lasting effects. White-collar crimes cover a wide range of wrongdoings that are not violent, but are still illegal. These kind of crimes are often times committed by professionals in business, government and finance.
White-collar criminals face serious consequences. Most often these cases are heard in federal court. This is because these crimes involve government agencies, such as the FBI, IRS and more. These agencies are needed to investigate the crime more thoroughly and determine its lasting effects on those involved in the scheme. Since these cases can take place in federal court, they are subject to federal sentencing guidelines.
What are federal sentencing guidelines?
Federal sentencing guidelines were put in place to make sentencing for white-collar crimes more uniform throughout the system. These guidelines were established by the U.S. Sentencing Commission to ensure more just laws were in place. With these laws in place, it is easier for officials to provide more appropriate penalties for white-collar criminals. Once the severity of these crimes was explored, the justice system put more strict punishments together. These consequences may include jail time for individuals who have committed white-collar crimes.
The federal guidelines that were passed created multiple offense levels with varying degrees of punishments. There are 43 offense levels, six criminal history categories and four sentencing zones that are taken into consideration when deciding the punishment for a white-collar crime.
What is considered a white-collar crime?
Since professionals in business, finance and government are referred to as white-collar workers, these crimes are called white-collar crimes. These crimes include forgery, identity theft, credit card theft, mortgage fraud, insurance fraud, employee theft, embezzlement, bad checks, gambling offenses and Ponzi schemes. The nature of these crimes may not be violent, but they can still have a far reach.
When dealing with white-collar crimes, it would be in your best interest to contact an attorney. Our group of professionals has experience handling cases involving white-collar crimes. The severity of your crime may cause for life-changing circumstances. We want to help make sure that your future is not ruined.
If you have been charged with a crime in New Jersey, it is essential to retain the services of an experienced criminal defense attorney. Contact the Law Office of Michael A. Policastro today to schedule a consultation so we can discuss your situation.
