A “crime” occurs when someone violates a provision of the Texas Penal Code, and there are hundreds of different criminal offenses on the books. Whether someone drives a car on a suspended license or commits murder, there can be penalties. Generally, crimes are divided into misdemeanors and felonies. However, they can also fall into the categories of “white collar” crimes depending on the offense.
‘White collar’ crime is based off the believe that these are non-violent, usually theft related crimes that are usually committed bydefendants thatwork in offices, commonly in finance, thus they are called ‘white collar’ since those people usually wear ‘white collar’ dress shirts to work.
While the distinction of white collar should not impact your rights or your criminal case, these cases might be handled differently in the court system for various reasons. Always have a Plano criminal defense lawyer to ensure that you receive fair treatment during your case.
White Collar Crimes
White collar crimes tend to involve those with greater means and resources. Some offenses never involve direct contact with victims, as they might involve complex fraud schemes, identity theft, and similar conduct. Some white collar employees engage in financial crimes stemming from their business, which might be crimes against their employers or consumers.
Some white collar offenses include:
- Embezzlement
- Securities fraud or insider doji candle
- Ponzi schemes
- Wire or mail fraud
- Tax, bankruptcy, or healthcare fraud
Typical Criminal Offenses
Most other crimes are associated with people who commit more physical crimes – often committed in the moment – instead of calculated long-term schemes. These can include:
This Distinction Should Not Affect Your Case
There is certainly overlap between the two type of categories, however. For example, many white collar employees might use drugs like cocaine and might face drug possession or distribution charges. White collar workers can also engage in sexual assault, domestic abuse, or offenses that are in the heat of the moment. Individuals who identify as “blue collar” can also engage in identity theft, check fraud, credit fraud, and other forms of non-violent financial crimes.
As you can see, the distinction is not a definite one, but defendants facing typical criminal charges or ‘blue collar’crimes are often treated more harshly than those facing white collar charges. This might be because they have less money available for a defense, or the crime involves a victim which makes resolving the case more difficult. ‘White Collar’ crimes are almost always financial in nature, and are ‘money crimes’. These type of offenses can usually be resolved favorably if a Defendant has the means to make any victims whole.
Society also views crimes directly against a victim as being more serious than crimes behind a computer. However, both type of criminal offenses are serious matters, and anyone facing any charges deserves fair treatment. It is important to have the right defense lawyer protecting your rights.
Learn More from a Plano Criminal Defense Attorney
No matter what type of charge you face in Plano, the law firm of J. Michael Price II is ready to defend you. Contact us online or call 214-765-8000 for more information today.