Name: Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock - Criminal Defense Attorney
Address: 1800 McCullough Avenue, San Antonio, TX, 78212
Telephone: (210) 223-8844
Price range: $

WHITE COLLAR CRIME ATTORNEY IN SAN ANTONIO, TX

Allegations involving white collar crime typically question a person's honesty and reputation and can be particularly damaging to professionals or business people.

If you are facing white collar criminal charges, having an experienced defense attorney who understands the challenges of these cases and the Texas criminal justice system is important. San Antonio white collar crimes attorney Patrick L. Hancock has more than 32 years of experience defending individuals against white collar crimes such as Internet crimes, embezzlement and fraud.

If your professional reputation and livelihood are at risk because of white-collar crime allegations in Texas, contact Patrick L. Hancock in San Antonio for a free and confidential appointment.

San Antonio white collar crimes attorney Patrick L. Hancock has focused his entire legal practice on criminal law. His experience, dedication to clients and criminal law knowledge have earned him many awards, including being selected for inclusion in Texas Super Lawyers, The Best Lawyers in America, The National Trial Lawyers and S.A. Scene Magazine's Best Lawyers in San Antonio.

FAQ - SAN ANTONIO WHITE COLLAR CRIME LAWYER

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR WHITE COLLAR CRIMES IN TEXAS?

White collar crimes in Texas carry serious penalties that can include both criminal and civil consequences. Depending on the nature of the offense, penalties can range from fines and restitution to lengthy prison sentences. For instance, fraud-related crimes such as embezzlement or securities fraud can result in significant financial penalties and incarceration for several years. Additionally, a conviction can lead to a permanent criminal record, which can severely impact future employment opportunities and professional licenses.

Texas law treats white collar crimes seriously, often prosecuting them under state and federal statutes. The severity of the penalties typically depends on the amount of money involved, the level of deception used, and the harm caused to victims. In many cases, the court may also order restitution, requiring the convicted individual to repay the money or property they wrongfully obtained.

At the Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock, our experienced San Antonio white collar crime attorneys understand the complexities of these cases. We work diligently to mitigate the penalties our clients face, whether through negotiation or building a robust defense strategy. If you're facing charges, having a skilled criminal defense attorney by your side is essential to protect your rights and future.

CAN I REPRESENT MYSELF IN A WHITE COLLAR CRIME CASE?

While it is legally possible to represent yourself in a white collar crime case, it is highly discouraged due to the complexity and high stakes involved. White collar crimes often involve intricate financial transactions, regulatory issues, and detailed legal statutes that require specialized knowledge to navigate effectively. Self-representation can leave you vulnerable to making critical mistakes, such as misunderstanding the charges, failing to challenge key evidence, or overlooking legal defenses that could reduce or dismiss your charges.

Having an experienced San Antonio white collar crime lawyer is crucial. A skilled criminal defense attorney can thoroughly analyze the evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case, and craft a strategic defense that you might not be able to achieve on your own. They can also negotiate plea deals or settlements that may result in reduced penalties, something that is often difficult without legal expertise.

At the Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock, our attorneys have a deep understanding of the legal nuances involved in white collar crime cases. We provide the knowledge and experience necessary to navigate the complexities of the legal system, giving you the best possible chance of a favorable outcome. If you're facing charges, contact us to ensure your rights are fully protected.

WHAT IS THE STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS FOR WHITE COLLAR CRIMES IN TEXAS?

The statute of limitations for white collar crimes in Texas varies depending on the specific offense. Generally, white collar crimes such as fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering have a statute of limitations ranging from 5 to 10 years. This means that the state must bring charges within this timeframe, or the defendant may have grounds to have the case dismissed.

However, certain circumstances can toll or pause the statute of limitations, such as if the accused is out of state or if the crime involves continuous or ongoing illegal activity. Additionally, some white collar crimes prosecuted under federal law may have different statutes of limitations, which could be longer than those under Texas law.

Given these complexities, it's crucial to consult with a white collar crime attorney who understands both Texas and federal laws. At the Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock, our San Antonio criminal defense lawyers can help determine whether the statute of limitations might apply in your case, and if so, how to leverage it effectively as part of your defense strategy.

CAN A WHITE COLLAR CRIME LEAD TO CIVIL PENALTIES?

Yes, white collar crimes can lead to civil penalties in addition to criminal penalties. In many cases, the victim or the government may file a civil lawsuit seeking monetary damages or other remedies. For example, if you are accused of fraud, the victims might sue for restitution, seeking to recover the money or property they lost due to the crime. Civil penalties can include hefty fines, repayment of losses, and potentially punitive damages designed to punish the offender and deter future misconduct.

Civil cases are separate from criminal cases, meaning that even if you are acquitted of criminal charges, you could still face civil penalties. This dual exposure makes it crucial to have a white collar crime lawyer who can address both the criminal and civil aspects of your case. At the Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock, our San Antonio criminal attorneys are well-versed in handling criminal and civil cases, ensuring that your defense is comprehensive and robust.

If you're facing white collar crime allegations, it's essential to be proactive. Our firm is ready to provide the legal support you need to protect your rights and minimize the impact on your financial and professional life.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I'M ACCUSED OF A WHITE COLLAR CRIME?

If you are accused of a white collar crime, acting quickly and wisely is essential. First, refrain from making any statements to law enforcement or investigators without legal counsel present, as anything you say can be used against you in court. Contact a San Antonio white collar crime attorney immediately to begin crafting your defense.

Your lawyer will guide you through the legal process, starting with a thorough review of the charges and the evidence against you. They will help you understand your rights and options and work to identify any weaknesses in the prosecution's case. Depending on the specifics of your case, your attorney may negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges, or they may prepare for a vigorous defense in court.

At the Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock, our experienced criminal defense lawyers are dedicated to defending clients accused of white collar crimes. We understand the significant personal and professional stakes involved and are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for your case. If you're facing accusations, call us immediately at (210) 223-8844 to protect your rights and start building your defense.

SAN ANTONIO WHITE COLLAR CRIME LAWYER - AREAS WE SERVE

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS

WHITE COLLAR CRIMES ATTORNEY IN THE GREATER SAN ANTONIO - DEFENDING YOUR PROFESSIONAL REPUTATION

A white collar crime conviction can ruin the reputation of a professional or business person and lead to serious criminal penalties, including lengthy jail time, restitution and hefty fines. Given the fact that the livelihood of a professional depends heavily upon his or her reputation, an allegation of a white collar crime can be devastating, even without a conviction.

Patrick L. Hancock has defended clients against a variety of white collar charges, including:

Embezzlement or theft
Credit card fraud
Forgery and check fraud
Insurance, securities or bank fraud
Counterfeiting or money laundering
Computer crimes or identity theft
Bribery
RICO violations

These complex charges can occur in both state and federal courts. They often result from years of criminal investigations and involve mountains of evidence. In order to develop an aggressive defense against these allegations, you need a criminal defense attorney with experience handling complex criminal cases at the state and federal levels.

San Antonio criminal defense attorney Patrick L. Hancock has a proven record of success representing clients with white collar crimes charges. He has the resources to handle the investigation needed to protect your reputation, livelihood, and future career opportunities.

FINANCIAL CRIMES

Embezzlement: Embezzlement involves the misappropriation of funds or property entrusted to an individual, often within a corporate or organizational setting. This could include siphoning company funds, manipulating accounts, or diverting assets for personal gain. As your San Antonio white collar crime lawyer, we will meticulously examine the evidence against you, challenging any weak points in the prosecution's case and ensuring your rights are upheld.
Fraud: Fraud encompasses a wide range of deceitful practices intended to secure unfair or unlawful gain. This can include schemes to obtain money, property, or services through misrepresentation. Common types include bank fraud, where fraudulent activities are directed at financial institutions; credit card fraud, involving the unauthorized use of credit cards; and insurance fraud, where false claims or misrepresentations are made to insurance companies. A skilled criminal defense attorney is essential in dissecting these complex allegations and developing a strategic defense.
Mortgage Fraud: Mortgage fraud involves deceptive practices related to home loans, often with the intent to profit illegally. This can include falsifying loan documents, inflating property values, or misrepresenting borrower information. At the Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock, our expertise as San Antonio criminal defense lawyers allows us to scrutinize the evidence and challenge the validity of the prosecution's claims.
Securities Fraud: Securities fraud occurs when individuals or entities engage in fraudulent activities related to the buying and selling of securities. This could involve insider trading, misrepresentation of information to investors, or Ponzi schemes. Given the complexity of securities laws, having an experienced white collar crime attorney is crucial in navigating these charges and safeguarding your professional reputation.
Tax Fraud: Tax fraud involves deliberately avoiding paying taxes through deceptive practices, such as underreporting income or inflating deductions. The IRS prosecutes these cases aggressively, but with the right San Antonio criminal attorney on your side, you can challenge the allegations and work towards a favorable outcome.
Money Laundering: Money laundering is the process of concealing the illegal origins of money, often through a series of complex transactions designed to make the funds appear legitimate. This crime is frequently associated with organized crime or large-scale fraud. A criminal lawyer who understands the intricacies of financial laws can help dismantle the prosecution's case and defend your interests.
Identity Theft: Identity theft involves the unauthorized use of another person's personal information, such as Social Security numbers or credit card details, often to commit fraud or other crimes. Defending against these charges requires a San Antonio white collar crime lawyer with deep knowledge of both criminal law and data protection laws.
Forgery: Forgery includes falsifying documents or signatures intending to deceive or defraud. Whether forging a signature on a check or altering legal documents, these charges can carry severe penalties. At the Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock, we offer comprehensive defense strategies that address every aspect of your case.

CORPORATE CRIMES

Bribery: Bribery occurs when someone offers or receives something of value to influence official action. This could involve public officials, corporate executives, or other influential figures. Defending against bribery charges requires a San Antonio criminal defense lawyer who can dissect the nuances of the case and challenge the prosecution's interpretation of events.
Extortion: Extortion is the act of obtaining money or property through threats or coercion. This could involve threatening someone with violence, exposing personal information, or abusing authority. As your white collar crime attorney, we will work to uncover any inconsistencies in the allegations and build a defense that challenges the credibility of the prosecution's case.
Insider Trading: Insider trading involves trading securities based on non-public, material information. These cases are often high-profile and can lead to significant penalties, including prison time and hefty fines. A criminal attorney with experience in securities law can help you navigate these complex charges and protect your rights.
Price-Fixing: Price-fixing occurs when competitors collude to set prices at a certain level, rather than letting market forces dictate them. This anti-competitive practice is illegal and can result in severe penalties for those involved. As your San Antonio white collar crime lawyer, we will investigate the case details, looking for any violations of due process or flaws in the prosecution's arguments.
Racketeering (RICO): Racketeering involves engaging in a pattern of illegal activity as part of an organized effort, often under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act. These cases can be extremely complex, involving multiple charges and defendants. The Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock provides expert legal representation, focusing on dismantling the prosecution's case piece by piece to protect your future.

OTHER WHITE COLLAR CRIMES

Computer Crimes: Computer crimes, also known as cybercrimes, include offenses such as hacking, online fraud, and theft of digital information. These crimes can carry severe penalties, particularly if sensitive data is compromised or significant financial harm is caused. Defending against these charges requires a San Antonio criminal defense attorney with a deep understanding of both criminal law and modern technology.
Environmental Crimes: Environmental crimes involve violations of environmental laws and regulations, often by corporations or individuals in positions of authority. These could include illegal dumping of hazardous waste, pollution, or violations of the Clean Air or Clean Water Acts. As your white collar crime attorney, we will analyze the case against you, looking for procedural errors or misapplications of the law that could work in your favor.
Healthcare Fraud: Healthcare fraud involves fraudulent activities within the healthcare industry, such as submitting false claims to insurance companies, overbilling, or providing unnecessary medical treatments. These cases often involve complex regulations and require a criminal defense lawyer who understands both healthcare law and criminal defense. The Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock is well-equipped to handle these intricate cases, offering a defense that addresses every aspect of the prosecution's case.

HIRE A SEASONED TEXAS WHITE COLLAR CRIMES ATTORNEY TO PROTECT YOU

white collar crime Patrick L. Hancock has been practicing criminal law since 1988 — for five years as an assistant district attorney for Bexar County and for more than 32 years in private practice as a criminal defense attorney. He has a keen understanding of the law and is able to develop creative and aggressive defense strategies to protect you from these damaging criminal charges.

Whether you are facing state or federal white-collar crime charges, you should speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney in San Antonio, Texas. Call Texas Internet crimes lawyer Patrick L. Hancock at 210-223-8844 or contact him online for a free and confidential consultation.

SAN ANTONIO WHITE COLLAR CRIMES LAWYER