San Antonio White Collar Crimes Lawyer
Experienced White Collar Crime Defense Lawyer in San Antonio, TX
Prosecutors across the State of Texas are becoming more and more aggressive as they address alleged white collar crimes. Some types of criminal cases that may have previously been handled through civil litigation are increasingly being charged and prosecuted as felony offenses. Multiple federal agencies (including the FBI, Secret Service, ATF, and DEA) are also taking steps to address financial crimes across the board.
Many people accused of white collar crimes have assets, businesses, and social reputations to protect. That is why the Law Offices of Sam H. Lock delivers high-quality criminal defense designed to safeguard your social standing as well as your personal and financial security. Attorney Sam Lock understands how serious white collar criminal charges can be, and he will work tirelessly to defend clients in Central and South Texas against state charges and federal crimes involving:
- Mortgage Fraud
- Bank Fraud
- Internet/Computer Fraud
- Wire fraud
- Securities and Tax Fraud
- Insurance Fraud (Medicare, Health, etc.)
- Mail Fraud
- Money Laundering
- Embezzlement
- Honest Services Fraud
- Bribery
- Kickback Schemes
- Extortion
- Racketeering
- Conspiracy
- Forgery
- Counterfeiting
- And more
What Is Racketeering?
Racketeering is a broad term that covers activities associated with illegal business, typically in reference to organized crime. Mob tactics such as extorting legitimate businesses or using a legitimate business as a front for illegal activities are harshly penalized under this law. A charge for racketeering may apply in addition to another crime, such as embezzlement or drug trafficking.
It is important to note that racketeering is often prosecuted at the federal level under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act. A conviction under this law can result in anywhere from 20 years to life in prison, as well as up to $250,000 in fines. It goes without saying that the consequences of racketeering are grave, and if you find yourself charged with this offense, you should seek legal representation immediately.
Penalties for Counterfeiting and Forgery in Texas
In Texas, you can be charged with counterfeiting for selling fake or falsely represented products. The seriousness of the charge can be as light as a Class C misdemeanor (a fine of $500 with no jail time) to a first degree felony (five to 99 years or life in prison, plus a maximum fine of $10,000) depending on the retail value of the counterfeit goods or services.
Forgery is defined as producing unauthorized reproductions in writing with the intent to defraud or harm someone else. These unauthorized reproductions typically refer to currency, credit cards, badges, trademarks, or stamps, but they can also include visas and other forms of identification. The sentence for a forgery conviction depends on what was forged: a falsified check, will, or deed is a state jail felony (punishable by 180 days to two years in prison), but forging US currency is a third degree felony (two to 10 years in prison).
A prison sentence can severely disrupt your life and set you back for years; to avoid the worst-case scenario when charged with counterfeiting or forgery, you will need to work with a criminal defense attorney who can help you determine your legal options and fight to have the charges reduced or dropped entirely.
Contact Our San Antonio, TX White Collar Crimes Defense Attorney Today
The moment you are suspected of or charged with a crime, your entire career and everything you have worked for is at stake. Sam Lock will work swiftly and thoroughly to strategize an intelligent and comprehensive defense for your case. The ultimate goal is to receive a "not guilty" verdict rather than to plea bargain for lesser punishments that could still ruin everything you have worked so hard to achieve.
At the Law Offices of Sam H. Lock, proving your innocence is the priority. Attorney Lock works with clients in various cities, including San Antonio, Austin, Del Rio, El Paso, Midland, Pecos, and Waco. You can reach our San Antonio office at 210-226-0965 or get in touch online to schedule a consultation.