How to Defend Against Fraud and White-Collar Crime Accusations in New Jersey

If you’ve been accused of fraud or a white-collar crime, the stress and fear of what lies ahead can feel overwhelming. These cases often involve high stakes—financial penalties, jail time, and damaged reputations. At Zegas Law, we’re here to stand by your side. Our attorneys are well-versed in New Jersey’s white-collar crime laws and are committed to helping you protect your future while guiding you through every step of the legal process.

What is White-Collar Crime?

White-collar crime refers to financially motivated, non-violent crimes typically committed by individuals in positions of trust. In New Jersey, common white-collar crimes include:

• Fraud: Engaging in deceptive activities aimed at financial gain, such as healthcare, insurance, or securities fraud.
• Embezzlement: Misappropriating funds entrusted to you.
• Tax Evasion: Illegally avoiding tax payments.
• Money Laundering: Concealing illegally obtained money through legitimate businesses or transactions.
• Insider Trading: Illegally using confidential information to trade stocks or other securities.

These offenses are prosecuted rigorously, and depending on the nature and scope of the crime, you could face state or federal charges. Penalties for white-collar crimes in New Jersey can include substantial fines, restitution, imprisonment, and professional consequences such as the loss of licenses or restricted employment opportunities.

For example, under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4, theft by deception (a form of fraud) can result in penalties ranging from 18 months in prison to 10 years, depending on the value of the property involved.

Real-World Example: The Chase Bank Glitch and Fraud Charges

A recent example of how unintended actions can lead to fraud accusations is the Chase Bank ATM glitch. This technical error allowed customers to withdraw more money than they had in their accounts. Many unknowingly found themselves facing potential fraud charges despite not having the intent to commit a crime. In New Jersey, check fraud (N.J.S.A. 2C:21-5) is a serious offense that carries heavy penalties, even in cases where no fraudulent intent was present.

This case underscores the importance of having a knowledgeable attorney by your side if you find yourself facing similar allegations. At Zegas Law, we specialize in defending clients who find themselves entangled in complex fraud accusations, whether intentional or not.

Legal Consequences of Fraud and White-Collar Crime in NJ

In New Jersey, white-collar crime penalties vary based on the severity of the offense, the amount of money involved, and whether the accused has a prior criminal history. Potential consequences include:

• Fines: Offenders may face financial penalties ranging from thousands to millions of dollars, depending on the scale of the crime.
• Restitution: Convicted individuals may be required to repay any financial losses to the victims.

• Prison Time: White-collar crimes often result in prison sentences, particularly for large-scale fraud or federal offenses. In New Jersey, offenders can face substantial jail time for financial crimes.
• Professional Consequences: Convictions can lead to the loss of professional licenses, limiting your ability to work in certain industries.

These severe penalties highlight the importance of partnering with an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands the intricacies of New Jersey’s white-collar crime laws.

Key Defense Strategies for White-Collar Crime

Facing white-collar crime accusations can be daunting, but understanding your legal options is essential. Zegas Law tailors defense strategies based on your unique situation, ensuring your rights are protected. Here are common defense strategies we might employ:

Lack of Intent

One of the fundamental elements the prosecution must prove in white-collar crime cases is intent. Many accusations arise from misunderstandings or unintentional errors. If you can show that your actions were involuntary or due to unforeseeable circumstances, this defense may apply.

• How It Helps: By demonstrating that your actions were unintentional, we can argue that there was no criminal intent. This defense weakens the prosecution’s case by showing that you did not knowingly engage in illegal activity.

Duress or Coercion

Individuals may find themselves forced into illegal activities under threats from others, especially in corporate environments. If you were pressured into participating in white-collar crime, coercion could be a valid defense.

• How It Helps: We’ll work to demonstrate that you acted under duress, showing that your involvement in the crime wasn’t voluntary but driven by fear or pressure. Evidence of threats from superiors or others in positions of authority can be crucial to this defense.

Entrapment

Entrapment occurs when law enforcement persuades someone to commit a crime they wouldn’t have committed otherwise. If you believe law enforcement induced your actions, this could form a strong defense.

• How It Helps: If we can show that law enforcement pushed you into criminal activity, the charges may be dismissed. Entrapment defenses are especially relevant in cases involving undercover operations.

Challenging the Evidence

White-collar crime cases often involve intricate financial records or communications that may not directly link you to illegal activity. The prosecution must prove every element of their case beyond a reasonable doubt.

• How It Helps: We will thoroughly examine the prosecution’s evidence, identifying gaps or inconsistencies. By questioning the credibility or completeness of the evidence, we can introduce reasonable doubt, which may result in reduced charges or a dismissal.

Good Faith Actions

Good faith refers to acting with honesty and a lawful purpose. This defense applies when you genuinely believed your actions were lawful or ethical, even if the result was unfavorable.

• How It Helps: If you acted in good faith—relying on legal advice or believing your actions complied with the law—this can be a powerful defense. We will present evidence that your intentions were honest, not fraudulent, which could reduce or dismiss the charges.

Empathy and Support During Difficult Times

We understand that being accused of fraud or white-collar crime is emotionally draining. The stakes are incredibly high—not just in terms of potential legal consequences but also the damage to your reputation and career. At Zegas Law, we take a compassionate approach, recognizing the personal and emotional toll this process can have on you and your family. You’re not just a case to us—you’re a person facing an incredibly challenging time. Our team is here to support you, offering both empathetic guidance and aggressive defense strategies.

Why You Need a New Jersey White-Collar Crime Attorney

White-collar crime cases are complex, requiring thorough investigation and a deep understanding of both legal and financial principles. At Zegas Law, we will:

• Analyze the prosecution’s evidence to identify weaknesses or inconsistencies.
• Develop a tailored defense strategy based on the unique circumstances of your case.
• Work to reduce or dismiss charges through negotiation or litigation.
• Offer compassionate, client-focused representation throughout the process.

Secure Your Defense: Schedule a Confidential Consultation with Zegas Law

If you or a loved one is facing fraud or white-collar crime charges in New Jersey, Zegas Law is here to help. With years of experience defending clients in New Jersey, we know how to build strong, personalized defenses that protect your rights, reputation, and future. Don’t face these charges alone—contact us today for a confidential consultation.