What Is White Collar Crime? A Beginner’s Guide

When people hear the word “crime,” they often picture physical theft or violence. But some of the most impactful and high-stakes offenses in the legal system involve no weapons at all. These are known as white collar crimes—non-violent, financially motivated acts that often carry serious legal and financial consequences.

At Tritico Law, we represent professionals, business owners, and individuals throughout Houston and across Texas and the nation who are facing complex white collar investigations and charges. This beginner’s guide will explain what white collar crime is, common examples in Texas, and what you need to do if you’re under investigation.

💼 What Is White Collar Crime?

White collar crime refers to illegal activities committed for financial gain, usually involving deceit, concealment, or a breach of trust. These crimes are typically committed by professionals in corporate, financial, or government roles.

They are investigated by agencies like the FBI, IRS, and Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and may lead to federal charges, asset forfeitures, and long prison sentences—even for first-time offenders.

Important: If you’re being investigated or have been charged with a white collar crime in Houston, immediate legal action is critical.

⚖️ Common Types of White Collar Crimes in Texas

Houston’s diverse economy—spanning oil, healthcare, finance, and tech—makes it a frequent setting for white collar investigations. At Tritico Law, we routinely defend clients against allegations such as:

✔️ Wire Fraud

Using electronic communications (email, phone, text) to intentionally deceive or defraud someone out of money or assets.

✔️ Mail Fraud

Involves using postal or courier services to carry out a scheme to defraud.

✔️ Embezzlement

When a person entrusted with money or property misuses it for personal gain—common in small businesses, nonprofits, or family-owned companies.

✔️ Securities Fraud

Includes insider trading, Ponzi schemes, and false financial statements used to mislead investors.

✔️ Healthcare Fraud

Includes billing for services not rendered, inflating costs, or engaging in illegal referral kickbacks—particularly relevant in Houston’s vast medical sector.

📉 What Happens If You’re Accused of a White Collar Crime?

White collar cases are typically handled at the federal level, and investigations can unfold over months or even years before charges are filed. You may be facing:

• Federal indictments or subpoenas

• Frozen bank accounts or seized assets

• License suspensions or revocations

• Reputation damage within your profession and community

At Tritico Law, our experienced criminal defense attorneys take a proactive, strategic approach—digging deep into the government’s case, protecting your rights at every stage, and seeking the best outcome, whether that’s dismissal, acquittal, or a favorable plea.

👨‍⚖️ Why Choose Tritico Law for White Collar Criminal Defense in Houston and around the country?

Tritico Law has been a trusted name in Texas criminal defense for over 30 years. Our team includes former prosecutors and seasoned trial attorneys with a deep understanding of the federal legal system and the nuances of white collar litigation.

What sets us apart:

• Deep experience in both state and federal courts

• Personalized legal strategy for each client’s unique situation

• Proven track record in complex financial and corporate fraud cases

📞 Contact Tritico Law Today

If you’re facing white collar crime charges in Houston or Southeast Texas and around the country, don’t wait to get legal help. Reach out to Tritico Law for a confidential consultation today.

📍 Tritico Law
Houston, TX
🖥️ www.triticorainey.com
📞 Call: (713) 581-8203