An investigation or accusation of a white-collar crime can feel like your world is crumbling. Suddenly, your career, your reputation, and your very freedom are on the line. The stress is immense, and the future feels uncertain. These are not minor allegations; they are complex legal battles often waged by powerful state and federal agencies with vast resources. In this critical moment, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a steadfast advocate with the experience and resolve to protect what you’ve built.
At the Law Offices of Daniel DeMaria, our experienced Quincy white-collar crime lawyer understands the gravity of your situation. We recognize that an allegation alone can inflict irreparable damage long before a case ever sees a courtroom. That is why we provide a proactive, strategic, and uncompromising defense for professionals, executives, and individuals facing white-collar crime charges in Quincy, Boston, and throughout Massachusetts. Your first step towards reclaiming control is understanding your rights and options—contact us now.
When your future is at stake, the choice of legal representation is paramount. You need a firm that not only understands the letter of the law but also grasps the intricate strategies of prosecutors and the nuances of complex investigations.
Experience in State and Federal Courts: Daniel DeMaria has cultivated a formidable presence across a broad spectrum of legal matters, from theft of trade secrets to complex financial crimes. This diverse experience is invaluable in white-collar cases, which frequently cross jurisdictional lines and involve powerful agencies like the FBI, FDA, SEC, IRS, and attorney general’s office. We are adept at navigating the distinct procedures and formidable challenges of both the Massachusetts state and federal court systems.
A Client-Centered, Unwavering Commitment: We know that a criminal investigation or charge is not a 9-to-5 problem. It is an all-consuming crisis that demands immediate attention and unwavering support. Our clients can attest to our dedication. We are the firm that answers the phone at 2 a.m., the firm that pursues every legal avenue with an “indefatigable spirit,” and the firm that ensures you are never left in the dark. We are bound by our fiduciary duty to serve your best interests, and we honor that duty with clear, consistent communication and a defense strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.
A Proactive and Strategic Approach: The most effective defense often begins before charges are even filed. Our approach is to intervene at the earliest possible stage of an investigation. By engaging with investigators and prosecutors proactively, we can often influence the direction of the case, present mitigating evidence, and work to prevent an indictment altogether. If charges are unavoidable, we are always prepared to build a meticulous, evidence-based defense and challenge the prosecution’s case at every turn.
The term “white-collar crime,” refers to a category of non-violent, financially motivated offenses typically committed by business professionals, government officials, or individuals in positions of trust. While these crimes lack the physical violence of other offenses, law enforcement and prosecutors treat them with extreme seriousness, and the penalties can be life-altering.
Common examples of white-collar crimes prosecuted in Massachusetts include:
A defining characteristic of white-collar crime is the frequent involvement of federal agencies. The FBI, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and even the Secret Service often lead these complex investigations. Federal prosecutors have significant resources and often seek severe penalties under the stringent Federal Sentencing Guidelines. A conviction at the federal level can result in lengthy prison sentences, massive fines, and a permanent criminal record. Understanding how to navigate a multi-agency investigation is a fundamental skill for any effective white-collar defense attorney.
At the Law Offices of Daniel DeMaria, we do not believe in a one-size-fits-all defense. We approach every case with a meticulous and customized strategy designed to achieve the best possible outcome.
A: This is a complex question. While Massachusetts General Laws may specify a general limitation of six years for many crimes, this can be misleading. The “clock” often doesn’t start until the crime is discovered, not when it was committed. Furthermore, if public funds are involved or if a federal statute applies, the limitations period can be different or extended. You should never assume it is too late for the government to bring charges.
A: This perception can be deceiving. While the lack of physical violence may lead to more consideration of plea deals, prosecutions are common and aggressive. In 2024 alone, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts recovered over $147 million through criminal and civil actions, demonstrating a strong commitment to pursuing these cases. The complexity and resource-intensive nature of these investigations can mean they take longer to build, but the government’s intent to prosecute is clear.
A: Based on prosecutorial trends, the most common white-collar offenses in Massachusetts are various forms of fraud (especially healthcare and investment fraud), embezzlement (the misappropriation of entrusted funds), and money laundering. High-profile cases in the Boston area frequently involve one or more of these charges.
A: Absolutely. This is the single most critical time to secure legal counsel. Anything you say to investigators can be used against you. An experienced lawyer can handle all communications on your behalf, protect you from coercive questioning, and begin building your defense before the government has even finalized its case. Early intervention provides the best opportunity to avoid charges entirely.
A: Both are serious indicators that you are involved in a federal investigation. A grand jury subpoena is a legal order compelling you to either testify or produce documents (like emails, financial records, etc.). You may be subpoenaed as a witness, a subject, or a target of the investigation. A target letter, on the other hand, is an official notification from the U.S. Attorney’s Office that you are a specific target of a grand jury investigation, meaning they believe they have substantial evidence linking you to a crime. Receiving either requires immediate legal counsel to protect your rights.
A: Yes. This process is called asset forfeiture. In many white-collar cases, the government can initiate proceedings to seize assets they believe are connected to the alleged criminal activity. This can include freezing bank accounts, placing a lien on your home, or seizing vehicles and other valuable property. Critically, this can sometimes happen before you are even convicted of a crime through a process called civil forfeiture. An experienced attorney can challenge these seizures and fight to protect your property.
A: Not necessarily, but it is a very real possibility. Sentencing for white-collar crimes, especially in federal court, is complex and guided by the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. Factors that heavily influence the outcome include the financial loss amount, the sophistication of the scheme, the defendant’s role, and their criminal history. However, a skilled defense attorney can present compelling mitigating factors and argue for alternative sentences, such as a deferred prosecution agreement, probation, home confinement, or community service, when appropriate. The goal is always to achieve the best possible outcome, which includes avoiding incarceration whenever possible.
A: You should never speak to federal agents or any law enforcement investigators without your attorney present. While their approach may seem friendly or informal, their objective is to gather evidence for a prosecution. They are highly trained in interrogation techniques designed to elicit incriminating statements. Anything you say can be misinterpreted or used against you, even if you believe you are innocent. The only safe and proper response is to politely decline to answer any questions and state that you will have your lawyer contact them.
You do not have to face this challenge alone. An allegation of a white-collar crime is not a conviction. You have rights, and you have options. Taking decisive action by arming yourself with a powerful legal defense is the most important step you can take to protect your name, your family, and your future.
At the Law Offices of Daniel DeMaria, we are prepared to stand with you. We will bring our full experience, resources, and unwavering resolve to your defense. Every case is unique, and we are committed to providing the personalized, strategic counsel necessary to navigate this difficult time.
Do not wait for the situation to escalate. Contact us today for a free and strictly confidential consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help.
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