What Is White Collar Crime and What to Do When Charged With One

Leah Davis Madden • February 17, 2023
White Collar Crime

What Is White Collar Crime and What to Do When Charged With One

(Atlanta, GA)


The prevalence of white-collar crime in the United States is due to the rise in corporate greed. White-collar crimes arise when someone takes advantage of a position of trust, embezzles funds, or engages in a fraudulent scheme. Here is a look at the definition of white-collar crime and what you should do when charged with one.



What Is White-Collar Crime?


According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, white-collar crime is illegal. Examples of these crimes include fraud, theft, extortion, money laundering, and bribery. White-collar crimes are executed for financial gain by business and government professionals. 


The difference between white-collar and blue-collar crimes is that the former is difficult to track and less obvious. For example, a blue-collar worker at a warehouse can steal a product from the warehouse floor, while a manager can steal a product through illegitimate financial transactions. Also, the blue-collar crime involves using force, whereas white-collar crime entails using financial schemes or fraud.


What Defenses Can Your Raise in Your White-Collar Case?


Some defenses your lawyer will raise on your behalf include duress, entrapment, lack of intent, and intoxication. If evidence shows that you were threatened or enticed to commit a white-collar crime, your lawyer can use the duress and entrapment defenses.


The prosecution must show you intended to commit a crime for a conviction to prosper. Therefore, if you have proof that the acts were unintentional or committed by mistake, your lawyer can apply the lack of intent defense strategy.


Another way your lawyer can seek a withdrawal of your case or a lesser sentence is by claiming that you were intoxicated when committing the crime. For this defense to hold, your lawyer has to present proof that you had no control over your actions and wouldn't have committed the crime if you were sober.



What Should You Do When Charged with a White-Collar Crime?


The charges for a white-collar crime include fines, prison time, home detention, and community service. You may be ordered to pay restitution. If you are sent to jail, the duration of your sentence will depend on the crime you are charged with.


The first thing you should do if you are charged with a white-collar crime is to seek legal counsel. Ensure you contact us at Davis Madden & Associates for a free estimate and help to weigh your options.


The material provided on this blog site does not/is not intended to constitute legal advice. All content is for general information only.



Request a Consultation

Georgia Criminal Law Blog

Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia

Understanding the Difference Between Misdemeanor and Felony Vehicular Homicide in Georgia

By Leah Davis Madden • December 2, 2025
Navigating the legal system can be particularly challenging, especially when faced with vehicular homicide charges in the state of Georgia. As a Criminal Lawyer, Atlanta-based Davis Madden & Associates, P.C. is dedicated to helping you understand these complex legal processes. 
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia

Facing a Theft Charge in Atlanta? What Happens When It’s Under $500

By Leah Davis Madden • November 17, 2025
You or a loved one is facing a theft charge under $500 in Atlanta. At Davis Madden & Associates, P.C., we understand how unnerving this can be. You might be dealing with uncertainty, worrying about potential penalties, and grappling with the complex maze that is the criminal justice system. Fortunately, our experienced Criminal Lawyers in Atlanta are here to help you navigate this challenging time. 
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia

The Serious Consequences of a Felony Murder Conviction in Georgia

By Leah Davis Madden • November 3, 2025
In Georgia, being convicted of a felony murder can have severe repercussions. A criminal lawyer in Atlanta, well-versed in Georgia's criminal laws, must handle the complexities of such cases to navigate potential pitfalls and pursue the best possible outcome.
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia

Georgia Drug Laws: When Possession Becomes a Felony

By Leah Davis Madden • October 16, 2025
Understanding the Legalities of Drug Possession
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia

Misdemeanor Battery Charges in Georgia: Simple vs. Family Violence

By Leah Davis Madden • October 1, 2025
Understanding Misdemeanor Battery Charges: An Overview
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia

How Georgia Handles Possession of Less Than an Ounce of Marijuana

By Leah Davis Madden • September 16, 2025
The laws pertaining to marijuana possession vary from state to state, and being unaware of the specific laws in Georgia could lead to significant legal trouble. This article serves as a guideline to the current laws and penalties related to less than an ounce of marijuana possession in Georgia, and the crucial role a Criminal Lawyer in Atlanta can play in your defense. The information is intended to be clear, factual, and supportive to those facing possible criminal charges. 
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia

When Criminal Charges Add Up: Understanding Multiple Count Cases in Georgia

By Leah Davis Madden • September 2, 2025
Being hit with multiple criminal charges can make an already disconcerting situation even more bewildering. When you find yourself at the intersection of an intricate criminal justice system and pregnant charges, seeking qualified legal representation is paramount. At Davis Madden & Associates, P.C. , we aim to demystify the multipart complexities surrounding multiple-count cases. As experienced criminal lawyers in Atlanta, we are well-versed in the intricacies of Georgia's criminal system.
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia

Can You Fight a Reckless Driving Charge in Atlanta? Legal Strategies Explained

By Leah Davis Madden • August 18, 2025
If you've been charged with reckless driving in Atlanta, Georgia, you might feel overwhelmed and unsure of your next steps. As leading criminal lawyers in Atlanta, we at Davis Madden & Associates, P.C., understand your fears and are committed to helping you through the process. Here, we will demystify the complexities of the criminal defense process, particularly as regards reckless driving. 
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia

Common White Collar Offenses in Atlanta: Fraud, Embezzlement, and More

By Leah Davis Madden • August 4, 2025
Understanding White Collar Crimes
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia

DUI Checkpoints and Arrests in Atlanta: What's Legal and What's Not?

By Leah Davis Madden • July 16, 2025
As a resident of Atlanta or the greater state of Georgia, understanding DUI (Driving Under the Influence) laws can be crucial, especially given the potential criminal charges you could face. Our team of Criminal Lawyers in Atlanta, at Davis Madden & Associates, P.C., strives to ensure you are well informed about these laws, preparing you to navigate potential DUI checkpoints and arrests.