If you’re facing charges for fraud, embezzlement, or other white-collar crimes in Fort Lauderdale or South Florida, you’re likely wondering what penalties you could face. The answer depends largely on whether you’re being prosecuted in state or federal court.
Below, we break down what to expect—and what you can do to protect your future.
🇺🇸 Federal White-Collar Crime Penalties
If you’re charged in federal court, the United States Sentencing Guidelines will determine your potential penalties. The biggest factor? 💵 The amount of financial loss involved.
🧾 Federal Penalties May Include:
- ✅ Lengthy prison sentences (based on dollar amounts and level of planning)
- ✅ Massive fines and restitution
- ✅ Seizure of assets connected to the alleged offense
- ✅ Probation or supervised release after incarceration
📌 Federal white-collar crime cases are typically prosecuted by the U.S. Department of Justice and investigated by the FBI, IRS, or other agencies—making these cases highly complex and aggressively pursued.
📌 Related: 👉 Difference Between Money Laundering and Tax Evasion
🟦 State White-Collar Crime Penalties in Florida
In Florida state court, white-collar crimes may be prosecuted under statutes like:
- Fraudulent Practices (Fla. Stat. § 817)
- Grand Theft (Fla. Stat. § 812)
- Forgery, Wire Fraud, or Identity Theft
⚠️ Florida State Penalties May Include:
- 🕐 Prison time (based on the degree of the felony)
- 💸 Restitution to victims
- 🧾 Fines up to $10,000
- ❗ Permanent criminal record unless resolved properly
However, many first-time offenders may be eligible for:
- ⚖️ Withhold of adjudication (no formal conviction)
- 🧹 Record sealing or expungement after restitution is paid
- 🔄 Diversion programs in some counties
📌 Related: 👉 Can You Seal or Expunge a Criminal Record in Florida?
🛡️ What Should You Do If You’re Charged?
If you’ve been accused of a white-collar crime—such as wire fraud, embezzlement, or healthcare fraud—don’t wait to see what happens. The penalties are too serious, and these cases often involve years of financial documents, digital evidence, and aggressive prosecution tactics.
✅ Call a White-Collar Defense Lawyer in Fort Lauderdale
At Michael White, P.A., we represent individuals and professionals throughout South Florida facing state and federal white-collar crime charges. We know how to:
- Investigate and challenge financial records
- Negotiate with prosecutors and restitution terms
- Fight for charge reductions, dismissals, or alternative resolutions
- Work toward sealing your record when eligible
📞 Call (954) 270-0769 or schedule a free consultation to protect your rights and your future.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions: Money Laundering Crimes in Florida
Q1: What exactly qualifies as money laundering?
A: Money laundering is the act of disguising money obtained through illegal means to make it appear legitimate. This often involves moving the money through banks, businesses, real estate, or digital currencies.
Q2: What are examples of money laundering schemes?
A: Common schemes include structuring cash deposits, using shell companies, buying and selling real estate, converting cash to cryptocurrency, or using casinos to “clean” money.
Q3: Is money laundering always linked to drug crimes?
A: Not always. While drug trafficking is a common source of “dirty” money, laundering can also stem from fraud, embezzlement, tax evasion, bribery, or theft-related offenses.
Q4: What are the penalties for money laundering in Florida?
A: Penalties can include up to 20 years in federal prison per count, fines of $500,000 or more, and asset forfeiture. Most convictions result in prison time.
Q5: What should I do if I’ve been charged with money laundering?
A: Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. Do not speak with investigators or financial institutions until you’ve received legal guidance from a lawyer experienced in white-collar defense.