Being charged with a financial crime can be a daunting experience, especially if you are unaware of what to do next. There are various financial crimes that you can be charged with, ranging from white-collar crimes to fraud. To help you navigate this difficult process, we have compiled some helpful information on what to do when you are charged with a financial crime and why hiring a skilled lawyer is essential.
Common Types of Financial Crimes in Edmonton
From embezzlement to identity theft, Edmonton is no stranger to financial crimes. Money laundering, fraud, insider trading and tax evasion are all commonplace in the area as well. Embezzlement is the theft or misappropriation of funds placed in one’s trust or custody. Money laundering, on the other hand, involves taking illicit money and disguising it to appear as though it was earned legitimately. Fraud is a broad category of criminal activity that involves deception for personal gain. Insider trading occurs when individuals use confidential information to buy or sell stocks. Tax evasion is the illegal non-payment or underpayment of taxes, while identity theft involves using someone else’s identity to commit a crime. These crimes are severe and can have significant consequences if convicted, including lengthy jail time, heavy fines, and a criminal record.
What to Do When Charged with a Financial Crime
If you are charged with a financial crime in Edmonton, the first step you should take is to hire an experienced criminal defence lawyer. A skilled lawyer can guide you through the legal process and provide you with the best possible defence. You should also seek legal advice as soon as possible. The earlier you speak to a lawyer, the more time they will have to prepare your case and build a strong defence.
After hiring a lawyer, you should provide them with all relevant information regarding the charges you are facing. Your lawyer will require a thorough comprehension of the charges against you, including what crime is being alleged, the supporting evidence that Crown prosecutors hold over you and any potential witnesses. Your lawyer will also need to know your version of events to build a defence that aligns with your account of what happened.
Why Hiring a Skilled Lawyer is Essential
When facing financial crime charges, hiring a skilled lawyer is not just important; it’s essential. Here are a few reasons why hiring a lawyer is crucial:
Expert Legal Knowledge and Experience: A skilled lawyer specializing in financial crimes has a deep understanding of the legal system, the charges you are facing, and how to build a strong defence strategy. A lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal process and ensure that your rights are protected.
Protection of Your Rights: Your lawyer is responsible for protecting your rights, advising you on the best course of action and ensuring that any evidence against you is obtained legally. Your lawyer can also ensure that you are treated fairly throughout the legal process.
Building a Strong Defence: A skilled lawyer can help you build a robust defence strategy tailored to your unique circumstances. This can include identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, gathering evidence to support your defence, and advocating on your behalf in court.
Mitigating Consequences: If convicted, financial crimes can have significant consequences, including lengthy jail time and hefty fines. A skilled lawyer can work to mitigate the consequences of a conviction and potentially negotiate reduced charges or penalties.
Access to Resources: A skilled lawyer has access to resources that can help build a robust defence, including private investigators, forensic accountants, and other legal professionals. These resources can help your lawyer build a strong case and potentially reduce the charges or penalties you face.
Expertise in Negotiation: A skilled lawyer can help you negotiate with the prosecution to reduce charges and penalties or seek alternative sentencing options. Additionally, they can work to achieve a plea bargain on your behalf and avoid a lengthy trial and harsher sentencing.
What Not to Do When Facing Charges
Facing financial charges is a stressful and overwhelming experience, and it’s natural to feel uncertain about what to do next. However, it’s important to be mindful of what not to do when facing charges to avoid making the situation worse. Here are some key things to keep in mind:
Don’t Discuss Your Case With Anyone Other Than Your Lawyer: It’s crucial to keep your discussions regarding your case confidential. Be wary of what you say to anyone except your lawyer, as it could be used against you in court. Therefore, refrain from discussing your case with family members, friends, or colleagues, as they can be subpoenaed to testify against you.
Don’t Make Statements to the Police or Prosecution Without Your Lawyer Present: You have the right to remain silent, and anything you say can be used against you in court. Therefore, do not make any statements to the police or prosecution without your lawyer present. During the initial phases of an investigation, it is particularly crucial for you to ensure that your evidence-gathering methods are sound. Otherwise, law enforcement may use this data against you in constructing a case.
Don’t Tamper with Evidence or Attempt to Influence Witnesses: Any attempts to interfere with evidence or influence witnesses can result in additional charges and weaken your case in court. It’s important to allow the legal process to play out and let your lawyer handle any interactions with the prosecution or witnesses.
Don’t Panic or Take Matters into Your Own Hands: It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed and anxious when facing charges, but it’s important not to panic or take matters into your own hands. This can include leaving the country, hiding assets, or making deals with witnesses. These actions can result in additional charges and severe consequences.
Don’t Ignore Your Charges: Financial crimes can have significant consequences, including lengthy jail time and hefty fines. Ignoring the charges or failing to take them seriously can result in a conviction and a criminal record. It’s crucial to seek legal advice as soon as possible and build a robust defence strategy with your lawyer.
Contact Chadi & Company
If you have been charged with a financial crime in Edmonton, it is essential to seek legal representation as soon as possible. At Chadi & Company, we have extensive experience defending clients facing financial charges. Our team of highly trained lawyers will strive endlessly to provide you with the highest quality defence and guarantee your rights are respected during all stages of the judicial system. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step towards protecting your future.
