White-Collar Crime on the Rise: How to Fight Federal Charges in Miami
Federal prosecutors in South Florida are cracking down on white-collar crimes — and the stakes are higher than ever. From PPP loan fraud to cryptocurrency schemes, wire fraud, and corporate embezzlement, the Department of Justice has significantly increased investigations in Miami-Dade and Broward counties.
If you’ve been contacted by federal agents or indicted in connection with a white-collar crime, you need immediate representation from a skilled criminal defense attorney. At the Law Office of Francisco Marty, we help clients fight serious financial crime charges with discretion, strategy, and strength.
What Is Considered White-Collar Crime?
White-collar crimes typically involve non-violent financial misconduct and are prosecuted under state or federal law. These offenses may include:
- Wire fraud
- Mail fraud
- Securities fraud
- PPP or EIDL loan fraud
- Tax evasion
- Money laundering
- Embezzlement or internal theft
- Identity theft or credit card schemes
- Cryptocurrency-related offenses
Many white-collar cases originate in Miami due to its large financial sector, real estate market, and international business connections.
Why Federal Charges Are More Complex
Unlike local misdemeanors, white-collar crimes are often investigated for months (or years) before charges are filed. By the time you’re contacted, the federal government may already have:
- Subpoenaed your financial records
- Interviewed former colleagues or vendors
- Pulled digital data from your emails or accounts
- Coordinated with agencies like the IRS, FBI, or SEC
This makes it critical to respond immediately and carefully — even if you believe you’re innocent or only partially involved.
Common Mistakes People Make
- Speaking to Federal Agents Without a Lawyer
Anything you say can be used against you — even if you believe you’re helping. Always consult an attorney before answering questions. - Deleting Files or Altering Documents
Tampering with evidence or destroying communications could result in additional charges like obstruction of justice. - Assuming You’ll Get Probation
White-collar crimes carry real prison time, especially when large sums or multiple victims are involved. Sentencing guidelines are strict — but there are ways to negotiate lesser outcomes with experienced counsel.
How Francisco Marty Builds Your Defense
At our firm, we don’t just react — we build proactive defense strategies that may include:
- Challenging the intent or knowledge requirement (you must have knowingly committed the fraud)
- Demonstrating that financial errors were mistakes — not crimes
- Contesting the admissibility of government-collected digital or financial evidence
- Negotiating with federal prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges
- Presenting favorable character evidence, restitution, and cooperation
Whether you’re a business owner, employee, or third-party vendor, we defend your rights, your reputation, and your future.
Real Case Example: Loan Fraud Allegation
A Coral Gables client was charged with PPP loan fraud after receiving a six-figure disbursement for a dormant business. After examining the evidence, we showed the client relied on inaccurate advice and made honest efforts to return unused funds. We negotiated a non-custodial sentence and avoided federal prison.
Serving Clients Across South Florida
We represent clients facing white-collar charges in:
- Miami
- Coral Gables
- Doral
- Brickell
- Fort Lauderdale
- West Palm Beach
- Federal Court (Southern District of Florida)
Don’t face the feds alone.
If you’ve been accused of fraud, financial crimes, or are under investigation, contact Francisco Marty today for a confidential consultation. We’ll help you protect your rights, your freedom, and your future.