While many talking heads on the news might have you believe that corporate financial fraud is somehow above the law, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) considers identifying and prosecuting it to be a chief priority. Though fraud may take many forms, and is rarely simple to chase down, the FBI considers it a significant threat not only to individual investors, but to the American economy as a whole.
According to the Bureau itself, the majority of fraud charges come against accounting practices that seek to deceive the analysts, auditors and investors who interact with them. They also closely follow indications of corporations and executives making questionable internal deals.
If you face charges or accusations of fraud, or if you discover an issue that could lead to fraud charges, you must remain calm and consider your next actions very carefully. In the vast majority of fraud cases that secure a conviction, a person or group of people seal their own fate not so much by taking questionable actions, but by participating in a coverup of some questionable action or event.
Remember, you are under no obligation to explain your way out of something the moment you find yourself accused. It is generally wiser to quickly, quietly reach out to an attorney before you say anything to anyone or take any further action. Even if you speak to your family, they may find themselves subpoenaed to testify against you later on. You may have many more options than you realize, but it is important to keep your personal image free of unnecessary suspicion.
An experienced defense attorney can help you carefully, confidentially examine your situation and determine a defense based on the specifics of your case. With proper legal guidance, you can use the strength of the law to defend your career and your reputation.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation, “White-Collar Crime,” accessed Aug. 25, 2017