White Collar Crimes Lawyer in St. Petersburg

White-collar crimes may not involve physical violence, but they can carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record. Prosecutors in Pinellas County and the Tampa Bay Area aggressively pursue these cases, often treating them as high-priority financial crimes. Whether you’re under investigation or have already been charged, having a strong legal defense is critical to protecting your rights and future.

At Bastos Defense, we represent individuals and businesses facing white-collar crime charges. A simple mistake, misunderstanding, or false accusation can quickly turn into a legal battle, and we’re here to fight for the best possible outcome.

If you’re being investigated or have been charged for a white collar offense in Pinellas County, contact us online or call (727) 353-6842 for a consultation.

Types of White Collar Crimes We Represent

Many people think white-collar crimes are just business mistakes or accounting errors but, in Florida, they can lead to serious legal trouble. You don’t have to be a career criminal to face these charges—a financial misstep, a misunderstanding, or even being in the wrong place at the wrong time can put you under investigation. White-collar crimes often involve fraud, financial deception, or business misconduct, and many people don’t even realize they’re being investigated until it’s too late.

Common offenses our clients have been accused of include:

• Fraud – Misrepresenting information to gain financial benefits (insurance fraud, credit card fraud, mortgage fraud).
• Embezzlement – Using company or client money for personal gain.
• Identity Theft – Using someone else’s personal information to open accounts, make purchases, or commit fraud.
• Money Laundering – Moving money through businesses or accounts to hide illegal activity.
• Wire & Mail Fraud – Using email, phone, or postal services to commit fraud.
• Tax Evasion – Failing to report income or avoiding taxes through deceptive practices.

These charges can come from Florida state prosecutors or federal agencies like the FBI, IRS, or SEC, meaning you could face years in prison if convicted.

The Consequences of a White Collar Crime Conviction

A conviction isn’t just about paying a fine and moving on—it can turn your life upside down. Depending on the charges, you could face:

• Prison Time – White-collar crimes can be felonies, leading to years or even life in prison.
• Massive Fines – Financial penalties can reach millions of dollars, leaving you in lifelong debt.
• Restitution – The court may force you to repay stolen money, even if you no longer have it.
• Criminal Record – A felony conviction can end your career, revoke business licenses, and ruin your reputation.
• Frozen Assets – Authorities can seize your money, property, or bank accounts while they investigate.
• Federal Charges – If the alleged crime involved banks, securities, or interstate business transactions, the federal government may prosecute you.

The reality is your entire future is on the line, and without a strong legal defense, a conviction could follow you for life. A financial crime charge doesn’t automatically mean you’re guilty, but waiting too long to act could cost you everything.