The call comes when you least expect it. You find out you’re being investigated for financial discrepancies and face possible criminal charges. In an instant, your career and reputation hang in the balance.

What began as a temporary solution — perhaps borrowing from company accounts or making questionable financial decisions during a crisis — now threatens everything you’ve built.

You’re not alone. Many successful Texas professionals face white collar crime allegations that stem from decisions made under pressure. This guide breaks down what you need to know about these charges and how skilled legal defense can protect your future.

Common Types of White Collar Crime

Graham Norris, founder of Norris Legal Group, explains that most cases revolve around some type of fraud.

“At the heart of it is typically an accusation of theft,” he says. “That can take a few forms – people might think of embezzlement, they might think of fraud, they might think of skimming.”

This includes:

• Financial fraud schemes
• Employee embezzlement
• Unauthorized fund access
• Tax evasion strategies
• Client information theft
• Corporate fund diversion
• Unauthorized business loans
• Financial document falsification

How White Collar Crime Investigations in Texas Unfold

Most white collar investigations begin quietly. The first sign might be internal auditors asking unusual questions, or your supervisor requesting detailed explanations of past transactions. By understanding how these investigations typically progress, you can better protect your interests from the start.

Phase 1: Initial Red Flags

• A coworker or supervisor notices financial irregularities
• Internal audit flags suspicious transactions
• Compliance reviews reveal documentation gaps
• Anonymous tips trigger preliminary reviews
• Regulatory bodies identify reporting discrepancies

Phase 2: Internal Investigation

At this stage, your organization may:

• Review financial records and documentation
• Interview employees and supervisors
• Examine email communications and records
• Bring in external auditors
• Consult with legal counsel

Phase 3: Law Enforcement Involvement

If evidence suggests potential criminal activity, the case may be referred to:

• Local police departments (smaller-scale cases)
• Texas state investigators
• Federal agencies (FBI, SEC, or IRS)

The jurisdiction depends on several key factors:

State Cases:

• Typically involve amounts under $500,000
• Activities confined within Texas
• Local businesses or individuals affected
• No federal institutions involved

Federal Cases:

• Operations crossing state lines
• Amounts exceeding $500,000
• Multiple victims across jurisdictions
• Cases involving federal institutions
• Healthcare fraud (a particular focus area)

“Typically, the two factors that would make it federal is if the operation stretches over state lines, and the value of the scheme,” Graham says.

The key to protecting yourself is recognizing these investigation stages early. If you notice increased scrutiny of your work, unusual audit requests, or concerning questions from supervisors, it’s crucial to seek legal counsel before the investigation escalates. Early intervention often provides the best opportunity to protect your rights and career.

Building Your White Collar Crime Defense in Texas: What to Expect When Working with an Attorney

When facing white collar crime allegations, your first meeting with your defense attorney is crucial. Here’s how an experienced attorney will build your defense from day one:

Initial Case Assessment

Your attorney’s first priority is understanding the complete picture. “It’s important at that initial conversation to get to the bottom of what really happened,” Graham says.

Your attorney will:

• Review all available financial records
• Examine relevant communications
• Create a detailed timeline of events
• Identify key witnesses and decision-makers
• Understand your role and authority level
• Document any authorization you had
• Analyze your intent and circumstances

Documentation Review and Organization

Before any charges are filed, your attorney will:

• Gather and organize all financial records
• Collect email trails and written communications
• Secure proof of any repayments made
• Document standard operating procedures
• Review authorization protocols
• Analyze transaction patterns
• Preserve electronic records and system logs

Context Development

Your attorney will build context around the allegations by:

• Documenting any personal crises or circumstances that influenced decisions
• Identifying standard industry practices
• Gathering character witnesses
• Establishing your professional history
• Demonstrating any attempts to rectify the situation
• Documenting your cooperation with internal investigations

Early Intervention Strategies

As Graham notes, early legal representation is critical: “If you’ve got any questions about whether business practices are legal, you need to consult with an attorney.”

Your lawyer may:

• Engage with investigators before charges are filed
• Interface with internal compliance teams
• Negotiate with alleged victims
• Work to prevent criminal charges
• Explore restitution options
• Develop compliance plans

Building Defense Narratives

Your attorney will construct defense strategies based on:

• Lack of criminal intent
• Authorization evidence
• Standard business practices
• Documentation of planned repayment
• Procedural violations in the investigation
• Mitigating circumstances
• Professional context

Resolution Planning

Your attorney will explore all possible resolutions, including:

• Pre-charge negotiations
• Restitution agreements
• Alternative disposition options
• Plea arrangements if necessary
• Professional license protection
• Evidence suppression strategies
• Trial preparation if required

Effective defense strategies can often lead to favorable outcomes. Graham was able to help one peace officer accused of fraudulent activity avoid up to 10 years in prison.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late – Contact Norris Legal Group Today to Handle Your White Collar Crime Defense in Texas

If you’re facing white collar crime charges in the Fort Worth area, or if you suspect you might be under investigation, immediate legal representation is crucial. The Norris Legal Group brings extensive experience defending against complex financial crime charges, with a proven track record of achieving dismissals and not guilty verdicts.

Our team understands both state and federal prosecution strategies and can help protect your rights, reputation, and freedom. Contact us today for a confidential consultation to discuss your situation and learn how we can help build your defense.

Don’t let delay compromise your future—reach out now to secure the experienced legal representation you need.