White Collar Crime Attorney
in Atlanta & Alpharetta, GA

Defending White Collar Crime Charges in Georgia

White collar crimes are prosecuted with extraordinary resources. Federal agencies including the FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation Division, SEC, and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia conduct lengthy, methodical investigations — often lasting years — before charges are filed. By the time you are arrested, the government has already built a substantial case.

These cases are won or lost on details: the admissibility of financial records, the legality of search warrants, the government's ability to prove criminal intent beyond a reasonable doubt. Attorney Sherota scrutinizes every piece of evidence, challenges every procedural misstep, and builds a defense tailored to the specific facts of your case.

If you are under investigation — even before charges are filed — retaining counsel immediately is the single most important step you can take. Pre-indictment intervention can mean the difference between charges being filed and charges being avoided entirely.

Defense Strategies We Use

State vs. Federal White Collar Charges in Georgia

White collar crimes can be prosecuted in Georgia state court under the Georgia Code (OCGA) or in federal court under U.S. Code, depending on the nature of the alleged offense. Federal charges typically arise when the conduct crosses state lines, involves a federally insured institution, or is investigated by a federal agency.

Federal sentences are governed by the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which calculate a recommended sentence based on the amount of financial loss, the number of victims, and the defendant's criminal history. Sentences in federal white collar cases are often significantly longer than state sentences for equivalent conduct — making skilled federal defense representation essential.

Fraud

Wire fraud, mail fraud, bank fraud, healthcare fraud, and mortgage fraud are among the most aggressively prosecuted federal offenses. A conviction can carry up to 20–30 years in federal prison. We challenge the government's evidence at every stage.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement involves the misappropriation of funds entrusted to your care. In Georgia, penalties range from misdemeanor charges for smaller amounts to felony charges carrying 1–10 years in prison. We scrutinize financial records and challenge intent.

Forgery & Identity Theft

First-degree forgery under OCGA § 16-9-2 carries 1–15 years in prison. Identity theft charges compound quickly. We examine the chain of evidence and challenge the prosecution's proof of intent and knowledge.

Bribery & Corruption

Federal and state bribery charges carry severe penalties including up to 20 years in federal prison, fines, and permanent disqualification from public office under Georgia law (OCGA § 16-10-2).

Money Laundering

Money laundering charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1956 carry up to 20 years per count in federal prison. These charges are often stacked with underlying fraud or drug offenses. We attack the predicate offense and the laundering theory.

Tax Evasion & Tax Fraud

IRS criminal investigations are thorough and methodical. Federal tax evasion under 26 U.S.C. § 7201 carries up to 5 years in prison per count. Early intervention — before charges are filed — is critical in tax fraud cases.

Securities & Insider Trading

SEC investigations and DOJ prosecutions for securities fraud and insider trading can result in decades in federal prison and millions in fines. We work with financial experts to build a rigorous defense.

RICO Charges

Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) charges are among the most complex and consequential in federal law. A RICO conviction can result in 20 years per count plus asset forfeiture. We have experience navigating these multi-count indictments.

What is considered a white collar crime in Georgia?

White collar crimes in Georgia are non-violent offenses typically committed for financial gain. They include fraud (wire, mail, bank, healthcare), embezzlement, forgery, bribery, money laundering, tax evasion, identity theft, and securities fraud. These charges can be prosecuted at both the state level under Georgia law and the federal level by the DOJ, FBI, IRS, or SEC.

What are the penalties for white collar crimes in Georgia?

Penalties vary widely depending on the charge and the amount of money involved. State felony charges can carry 1–20 years in prison and fines up to $100,000. Federal charges are often more severe — wire fraud and bank fraud carry up to 20 years per count, and RICO charges can result in 20 years per count plus mandatory asset forfeiture. A conviction also typically results in restitution orders and probation.

Can white collar crime charges be defended successfully?

Yes. Many white collar cases hinge on proving criminal intent — that you knowingly and willfully committed the offense. If the government cannot prove intent beyond a reasonable doubt, charges may be dismissed or reduced. Other common defenses include challenging the admissibility of evidence, statute of limitations, entrapment, and good-faith reliance on professional advice. Early intervention by an experienced attorney is the single most important factor in a successful outcome.

Should I hire an attorney before I am charged?

Absolutely. If you are under investigation for a white collar crime — even if you have not yet been arrested or charged — you should retain an attorney immediately. Pre-indictment representation allows your attorney to engage with investigators, potentially prevent charges from being filed, and ensure you do not inadvertently make statements that harm your case. Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present.

Does Sherota Law handle federal white collar cases?

Yes. Attorney Brent Sherota handles both state and federal white collar crime cases in Georgia, including cases investigated by the FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, SEC, and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia.

FREE CONSULTATION

Talk to an Attorney Today

Your first consultation is completely free and confidential. Attorney Brent Sherota personally reviews every inquiry and typically responds within one business day.

WHITE COLLAR CRIME DEFENSE

Tell Us About Your Case