Commercial crime, fraud and other white-collar crimes.

If you've been charged with fraud or any other commercial crime (a "white-collar" crime), you need to speak to a criminal defence lawyer immediately.

What you should do if you're being investigated.

You may be the subject of an ongoing investigation. If that's the case, you need advice from a criminal defence lawyer about how to conduct yourself, and what to do if you are questioned by the authorities (police, private investigators or internal company investigators).

Don't try to outsmart an investigator. It's best to let your lawyer know that you are under investigation. Give your lawyer your story, and then follow your lawyers advice.

What you should do if you've been charged.

If you've already been charged, you're facing serious consequences. Commercial crimes often involve "breaches of trust." In other words, thefts from individuals or corporations, committed by someone who was placed in a position of trust. Many individuals convicted of a "breach of trust" crime face lengthy jail sentences, in addition to the other consequences of conviction.

What is meant by commercial crime?

Commercial crimes are activities often characterized by wrongful or criminal deceptions, intended to result in financial or personal gain. They can result from a trust relationship between the parties, which then leads to crimes of opportunity.

Commercial crime is most often associated with the charge of fraud, which can be defined as: deceit, trickery, sharp practice, or breach of confidence, perpetrated for profit or to gain some unfair or dishonest advantage." Other examples of what might be considered commercial crimes are:

• Corporate crime
• Bribery
• Insider trading
• Embezzlement
• Computer and Internet crime
• Money laundering
• Identity theft
• Forgery
• Breach of trust

Is it commercial crime or an honest mistake?

There's a difference between an honest mistake and a criminal act. If you believe that you've committed a mistake but not a criminal act, talk to a criminal lawyer. Don't try to explain your mistake to anyone. It's too easy to be misunderstood. Explain things to your lawyer, and let your lawyer do the talking for you.

Don't take the blame for something you didn't do.

In cases where there is a large loss of funds, people often look for someone to blame. Don't "take the fall" for something you didn't do. Contact a criminal defence lawyer right away. Your lawyer will do whatever they can to protect you.

Commercial crimes are as complicated as they sound.

Commercial crimes often involve complex financial issues. You need a lawyer who can analyze the evidence and follow the paper trail. In some cases, you're lawyer may retain forensic accountants or other professionals to assist with your defence.

The bottom line is: if you're under investigation for a commercial crime, or if you've already been charged, don't try to handle things by yourself. Call a criminal defence lawyer.