Financial Crimes
We provide strong and compassionate defense for clients facing financial crime allegations like larceny, fraud, embezzlement, identity theft, and more. We have successfully defended clients against financial charges for nearly 30 years.
Get Help TodayFinancial and White Collar Crimes Defense
Financial crime charges in Massachusetts range from misdemeanor check fraud to felony embezzlement, money laundering, and healthcare fraud carrying years in state prison. For 30 years we have successfully defended individuals facing financial and white collar charges throughout Essex County and Eastern Massachusetts.
We have successfully defended clients against financial charges for nearly 30 years.
Financial Crime Charges Can Destroy Your Career And Future
Being accused of a financial crime like larceny, fraud, or embezzlement can lead to serious penalties including years in prison. These charges also carry the stigma of being untrustworthy, which can destroy reputations and careers. Defending against financial crime allegations is complex, requiring an attorney with specific skills and experience. Skills and experience we have developed over nearly 30 years in the courtroom.
Financial or “white collar crime” refers to any nonviolent crime that is committed by corporate or government officials or an individual to achieve unlawful commercial gains. It is frightening how often people find themselves in trouble just by a simple mistake, being unaware of the applicable laws or simply being a convenient “fall guy.’ The mistaken belief that such nonviolent crimes, involving business issues, need not be taken seriously has led many people to prison.
Because the law allows prosecutors to rely upon presumptions to prove a person’s intent, these cases can arise in circumstances of innocent, but mistaken, conduct that is misinterpreted by law enforcement investigators. Anyone targeted in such an investigation needs to be represented at the earliest possible moment so that rights and defenses may be preserved and any possibility of ending the investigation without criminal prosecution can be pursued. If you have been charged or are being investigated or questioned regarding such a crime, you need a lawyer. We have nearly three decades of experience in the courtroom, successfully defending good people in their toughest times.
Defense Based on Understanding & Compassion
We have a comprehensive approach to legal defense that addresses both the immediate legal needs and the broader context surrounding a case. We understand that innocent people get accused. We also understand that sometimes there are factors that the police and prosecutors don't pay attention to that may explain what happened, and why. Our team draws on experience with trauma, addiction, and mental health to uncover critical factors that often underlie financial crimes. This enables us to humanize clients, mount the strongest possible defense, and help clients make lasting and positive changes in their lives.
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The Challenge of Facing Financial Crime Charges
The Challenge of Facing Financial Crime Charges
Understanding Financial and White Collar Crime Charges in Massachusetts
General Fraud: Obtaining property or services through deception
Identity Fraud: Using another person's identifying information without authorization
Insurance Fraud: False claims, false statements, concealment of facts, or exaggerated claims to insurers
Computer and Cyber Fraud: Unauthorized access to computer systems or theft of information services
Grand Larceny: Unlawful taking and carrying away of another's personal property, with the specific intent to permanently deprive the person of the property; property valued over $1,200
Embezzlement: Fraudulent conversion of property by someone in lawful possession; penalties based on value
Money Laundering Conducting financial transactions involving proceeds of criminal activity; Concealing the source, ownership, or control of illegally obtained funds; Often charged alongside other offenses including drug crimes; Can involve both state and federal prosecution
Healthcare Fraud : Fraudulent billing to government or private insurers
Potential Consequences Under Massachusetts Law
White collar crime charges cause damage before any conviction. Your employer finds out. Your name appears in court records. Professional licensing boards may be notified. The accusation alone can end careers and destroy reputations.
Felony charges (grand larceny, credit card fraud, forgery, money laundering, healthcare fraud) carry potential state prison sentences ranging from 2.5 to 10 years. General fraud carries up to 10 years. Misdemeanor charges carry up to 1 year in the house of correction. Fines range from $1,500 to $25,000 or more.
A conviction involving dishonesty can result in loss of professional licenses in fields including law, medicine, nursing, finance, real estate, and teaching. Immigration consequences can be severe, as many fraud-relatedoffenses are considered crimes involving moral turpitude.
These consequences are serious and life-altering. With an experienced legal representation, outcomes vary significantly depending on the specific facts, available evidence, and strategic approach to defense.
“I would absolutely recommend Ernie to anyone.”
Diane
He was more than just my lawyer. He was my guardian angel during a very scary and desperate time in my life. He walked with me every step of the way and looked out for my best interest at every twist and turn. He stayed available seven days a week and within moments of my reaching out to him. I will be indebted to him forever. I knew I was in safe hands even though my matter kept me in constant fear. He gave me the courage to keep pushing forward and spent countless hours cheerleading me through an unspeakable experience.
"Attorney Stone was excellent."
He was extremely knowledgeable and knew his way around the Diversion Program and the Court. He gave us all the information and potential results upfront. He explained the entire process to us from start to finish and he mapped out a plan of action that resulted in a favorable outcome for my child. I would recommend Attorney Stone 100 percent. Thanks to him my child has no criminal record.
Lisa
"I knew Ernie was the real deal."
I knew the moment I spoke to Ernie on the phone he was the real deal. He made us feel at ease during a very stressful time and fought for us. We won our case because of his perseverance and professionalism. He’s just a really good person who’s in your corner fighting for you. Thanks Ernie you’re the best!!!!
Cheryl
"I can't say enough about Ernie and his team. "
They helped our family navigate a very delicate and complicated legal situation. We couldn't be more pleased with the outcome. And Ernie's down-to-earth demeanor helped us feel like we were being listened to and never being talked down to. I would highly recommend Ernie, as I am certain he would do his absolute best to achieve a best-case-scenario outcome for every single one of his clients.
R. H.
"Much love and appreciation to this group"
I would recommend them to anyone. From the first call I knew this was the right choice. Ernie kept my best interests in mind when representing me with results better than expected! I can’t thank them enough. Special shout-out to Joanne who is truly the nicest person. Their whole vibe was homely like family. Much love and appreciation to this group... even the 4 legged nugget running around their office.
A. R.
"I was in good hands..."
Before working with Ernie I was very unaware of how my future would be and felt alone in my case; that all changed once I had Ernie Stone as my lawyer. Very professional, very reassuring, very caring and helpful with any questions you may have. I can definitely say that there was always a smile on their faces and made me feel welcomed and well taken care of. I had no doubt in mind that I was in good hands and that I was going to be alright.
R. J.
We'll Get You Through the Storm
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