Oklahoma City White Collar Crime Lawyer
A White-Collar Crime Accusation Doesn’t Have To Turn Your World Upside Down
Don’t Face this Nightmare Alone! Protect Your Future with Cannon & Associates
What is White-Collar Crime?
White-collar crimes are non-violent, financial offenses committed by individuals or corporations. Unlike violent crimes, these crimes involve deceit, fraud, or abuse of trust for personal or corporate gain, encompassing a wide range of offenses such as:
- Fraud: racketeering, insider trading, copyright infringement, forgery, tax fraud, cybercrime, mail fraud, credit card/securities fraud, bank fraud, and false declaration.
- Theft: embezzlement, extortion, counterfeiting, identity theft, money laundering, and tax evasion.
The Stakes Are High
The government often employs aggressive tactics to prosecute these cases. Convictions for a white-collar crime can have devastating consequences:
- Significant financial penalties and restitution
- Loss of job and career opportunities
- Damage to reputation
- Potential imprisonment
On top of that, the money you will be ordered to pay to compensate victims can be astronomical, causing financial ruin. Oklahoma law allows for treble damages, meaning victims can be awarded up to three times their actual losses.
We know the complexities of these cases and the aggressive tactics prosecutors use.
Get a strong and experienced legal partner by your side: Call Cannon & Associates at 405-591-3935.
How We Get The Best Possible Outcome For You
1. Book a free case strategy session
2. We’ll gather evidence and look into all relevant details of your case
3. We’ll advise you on your options and support you throughout the process to get you the best possible outcome
WHY CANNON & ASSOCIATES?
FOREVER BE GRATEFUL
“Cannon and Associates helped me in every way with my situation in my last case. They supported me in the courtroom as if they were my lifelong friends. My lawyers David McKenzie and John Cannon, both are great to have in your corner! I will forever be grateful for how they helped me get through my obstacles. I will use them for any and all cases I may have in the future!”
– Kail
What to Expect from
your Case Strategy Session
- Terms you’ll understand: We explain complex legal concepts in relatable terms so you don’t get taken advantage of.
- Gain Clarity: Get answers to all your questions.
- Understand Your Legal Options: Make informed decisions for your future by gaining a clear understanding of the legal options available to you.
- Personalized Advice: We’ll tailor our approach to your specific needs and goals.
- Navigate with Confidence: Gain the knowledge to navigate the next steps effectively and confidently, increasing your chances of achieving the best possible outcome.
- No Obligation: No pressure; you’re free to explore your options at your own pace.
- Confidentiality: We understand the sensitivity of your situation and respect your privacy.
TOP 3 REASONS TO CHOOSE US FOR YOUR CASE
1. Personalized Defense Strategy:
With 75+ years of combined experience, we tailor our approach to your unique circumstances.
2. Aggressive Negotiation & Representation:
We fight to minimize penalties and protect your future.
3. Unwavering Support:
We’re by your side throughout every step of the process. Weekly team reviews ensure a thorough case analysis and dedicated team support.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor white-collar crime?
The severity of a white-collar crime can vary, with felonies carrying more serious penalties than misdemeanors. Factors such as the amount of money involved and the impact on victims can influence whether a crime is classified as a felony or misdemeanor.
2. How long does a white-collar crime investigation typically take?
The duration of a white-collar crime investigation can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the case, the resources available to law enforcement, and the cooperation of witnesses and suspects. Some investigations may take months or even years to complete. The earlier you engage an experienced white-collar criminal defense attorney, the better when facing a complex investigation.
3. Can I be extradited to Oklahoma to face white-collar crime charges?
You may be subject to extradition if you are accused of a white-collar crime in Oklahoma but reside in another state or country. Extradition proceedings can be complex and time-consuming.
To read more about DUIs, check out our blog:
Embezzlement
White-collar crime in federal court
How a felony conviction can affect your life
DESIRABLE RESOLUTION
“Mr. Stone was fantastic representing my case! I had never gone through this process before and he and his team explained everything to me along the way and ways to get ahead of the situation. He definitely got me a desirable resolution and even walked me through the process of how/where to pay fines and finalize everything. I felt well represented and it took a lot of stress off! Highly recommend.”
-Brian
If you’re under investigation or charged with a white collar crime in Oklahoma City, you need experienced legal representation right away. At Cannon & Associates, our Fierce Advocates® defend clients accused of fraud, embezzlement, tax evasion, money laundering, and other financial crimes.
We understand how much is at stake: your reputation, career, and freedom, and we fight tirelessly to protect them. With extensive local experience in Oklahoma County and federal courts, our team builds strong, strategic defenses to achieve the best possible outcome.
Contact our Oklahoma City white collar crime lawyers today at (405) 591-3935 for a confidential, free case strategy session.
The White Collar Criminal Process in OKC
White collar crime is a serious issue in the OKC area, and various law enforcement agencies investigate it. On the local level, OKCPD has a White Collar Crimes Unit that is assigned under the Person and Property Crimes Division. The unit also works with other agencies that are related to Oklahoma City upon request or at the direction of the Chief of Police.
On the state level, the Oklahoma Bureau of Investigation and the Attorney General’s office also engage in the investigation of financial crimes. Additionally, there are 27 county District Attorneys who may investigate and prosecute white collar crimes.
Federally, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigates white collar crime in the OKC area. The agency maintains a field office in Oklahoma City at 3301 West Memorial Road.
If you are charged with white collar crimes in OKC, the location of your court appearances will depend on the agency issuing the charges. If you are charged on the state level, your appearances will likely take place at the Oklahoma County District Court. If you are charged federally, the charges will occur at the Oklahoma District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma.
A Defense Team With Local Experience and Connections
When facing criminal charges in Oklahoma City, the value of local legal experience cannot be overstated. At Cannon & Associates, our deep-rooted experience in Oklahoma County criminal courts provides defendants with strategic advantages that can make the difference between conviction and dismissal of charges. This is only one reason why we are the Fierce Advocates® you want on your side in OKC.
Our attorneys have cultivated professional relationships with prosecutors, judges, and court staff throughout the Oklahoma City legal system. These established connections enable us to oversee cases more effectively, understanding each prosecutor’s negotiation style and each judge’s courtroom preferences. We know which arguments resonate with specific judges and how to approach plea negotiations based on individual prosecutor tendencies.
Local experience means understanding the unique procedures, unwritten rules, and practical realities of Oklahoma County’s criminal justice system. We’re familiar with local court scheduling practices, preferred motion formats, and procedural nuances that out-of-town attorneys might overlook. This insider knowledge allows us to anticipate challenges and position cases strategically from the outset.
Our established reputation in the community often facilitates more productive negotiations. Prosecutors are more likely to engage in meaningful plea discussions with attorneys they know and respect. This professional credibility, built over years of ethical practice and successful outcomes, translates directly into better results for our clients.
When your freedom is at stake, having local advocates who understand the system and maintain professional relationships throughout Oklahoma City’s legal community provides an invaluable advantage in building your strongest possible defense.
White Collar Fraud Crimes in Oklahoma
Forgery
Forgery in Oklahoma involves falsely making, altering, or signing documents with the intent to defraud. This includes creating fake signatures on checks, contracts, or legal documents, or materially altering existing documents. Oklahoma treats forgery as a felony punishable by up to seven years in prison. The crime requires proof of fraudulent intent and that the forged document could be used to someone’s legal prejudice or another’s damage.
Tax Fraud
Tax fraud encompasses willfully attempting to evade or defeat Oklahoma state taxes or federal tax obligations through false statements, concealed income, or fraudulent deductions. This includes filing false returns, hiding income in unreported accounts, claiming fictitious expenses, or maintaining false records. Both state and federal prosecutors aggressively pursue tax fraud cases, which can result in significant fines, restitution requirements, and substantial prison sentences depending on the amount of tax evaded.
Computer Fraud/Scam
Computer fraud involves using computers or digital technology to unlawfully obtain money, property, or services through deception. This includes phishing schemes, identity theft, online auction fraud, romance scams, and unauthorized access to computer systems. Oklahoma’s Computer Crimes Act covers these offenses, with penalties varying based on the amount stolen and the method used. These crimes often involve both state and federal jurisdiction due to their interstate nature.
Mail Fraud
Mail fraud is a federal crime involving using the postal service to execute schemes to defraud victims of money or property. This includes sending fraudulent investment opportunities, fake lottery winnings, or deceptive charitable solicitations through the mail. Each use of the mail system constitutes a separate offense, carrying penalties of up to 20 years in federal prison per count. The crime requires proof of a scheme to defraud and knowing use of mail to further that scheme.
Credit Card/Securities Fraud
Credit card fraud involves unauthorized use of credit card information to obtain goods, services, or cash, while securities fraud encompasses deceptive practices in stock and investment transactions. This includes identity theft for credit applications, skimming card data, Ponzi schemes, insider trading, and misrepresenting investment opportunities. Both carry severe penalties, including restitution, fines, and imprisonment. Securities fraud often involves federal agencies like the SEC and can result in both criminal and civil penalties.
Bank Fraud
Bank fraud involves knowingly executing schemes to defraud financial institutions or obtain money, credits, or assets under their custody through false pretenses. This includes check kiting, loan fraud, embezzlement, and identity theft for banking purposes. Federal law imposes penalties of up to 30 years’ imprisonment and $1 million fines. The crime encompasses various deceptive practices targeting banks, credit unions, and other federally insured financial institutions, often investigated by federal agencies.
False Declaration
False declaration involves making untrue statements under oath or in official documents where truthfulness is legally required. This includes perjury in court proceedings, false statements on loan applications, insurance claims, or government forms. Oklahoma law treats this as perjury when made under oath, punishable as a felony. The prosecution must prove the defendant knowingly made false statements on material matters, with penalties including fines and imprisonment depending on the context and consequences.
Theft-Related White Collar Crimes in Oklahoma
Embezzlement: Appropriating
Embezzlement by appropriation occurs when someone lawfully entrusted with another’s property converts it for their own use with the intent to permanently deprive the owner. This commonly involves employees, trustees, or agents who have legitimate access to funds or assets but use them for personal benefit. Oklahoma law treats this as grand larceny when the value exceeds $1,000, carrying penalties up to five years’ imprisonment. The key element is the defendant’s position of trust and lawful initial possession.
Embezzlement: Secreting
Embezzlement by secreting involves hiding or concealing property entrusted to one’s care with fraudulent intent to convert it to personal use. This differs from appropriation as it focuses on the concealment aspect rather than outright conversion. Examples include hiding inventory, falsifying records to conceal missing funds, or creating false documentation to cover theft. Oklahoma prosecutors must prove the defendant had lawful possession, intentionally concealed the property, and intended to permanently deprive the rightful owner of their assets.
Extortion
Extortion involves obtaining money, property, or services from another person through coercion, typically by threatening to expose embarrassing information, cause physical harm, or damage reputation. Unlike robbery, extortion involves threats of future harm rather than immediate violence. Oklahoma law classifies extortion as a felony punishable by up to five years in prison. The prosecution must prove the defendant made threats with the intent to obtain something of value, regardless of whether the victim actually complied with the demands.
Identity Theft
Identity theft involves unlawfully obtaining and using another person’s personal identifying information without permission to commit fraud or other crimes. This includes using stolen Social Security numbers, credit card information, or personal data to open accounts, make purchases, or obtain services. Oklahoma’s Identity Theft Protection Act provides both criminal penalties and civil remedies. Penalties vary based on the amount stolen and number of victims, with potential sentences ranging from misdemeanor fines to lengthy felony prison terms and substantial restitution requirements.
Money Laundering
Money laundering involves disguising the origins of illegally obtained funds by passing them through legitimate financial transactions to make them appear legal. This typically occurs in three stages: placement, layering, and integration of dirty money into the legitimate financial system. Oklahoma and federal authorities aggressively prosecute money laundering, which carries severe penalties including up to 20 years’ imprisonment and forfeiture of laundered assets. The crime requires proof that the defendant knew the funds were proceeds of illegal activity.
Tax Evasion
Tax evasion involves willfully attempting to defeat or evade assessment or payment of taxes through illegal means such as underreporting income, inflating deductions, or hiding assets. This differs from tax avoidance, which uses legal methods to minimize tax liability. Both state and federal prosecutors pursue tax evasion cases, with federal penalties including up to five years’ imprisonment and substantial fines. The government must prove willful intent to evade taxes and an affirmative act to conceal or misrepresent tax obligations beyond simple non-payment.
The White Collar Defense Team You Need in Oklahoma City
White collar criminal charges carry devastating consequences that extend far beyond potential prison sentences. Your professional reputation, career prospects, financial stability, and family’s future hang in the balance. These complex cases require sophisticated legal strategies, thorough investigation, and aggressive advocacy from attorneys who understand both the law and the high stakes involved.
At Cannon & Associates, we bring decades of white collar defense experience to every case. Our team has successfully defended clients against federal and state prosecutors in matters involving embezzlement, fraud, tax evasion, money laundering, and other financial crimes.
Time is critical in white collar investigations. The moment you learn you’re under investigation or have been charged, evidence preservation becomes crucial, and strategic decisions must be made immediately. Delaying legal representation can irreparably damage your case and limit your defense options.
Don’t face these serious charges alone. Your freedom, reputation, and future depend on having experienced white collar defense attorneys fighting for you from day one. Contact Cannon & Associates today for a confidential FREE case strategy session. Call us now at (405) 591-3935 or visit our office to discuss your case with Oklahoma City’s premier white collar defense team. Your future is too important to leave to chance.
