White collar cases are usually investigated by specialized agencies, often involve large volumes of financial records and electronic evidence, and frequently carry serious consequences. These guides explain what to expect from an investigation and what to do if you are contacted.
White collar crime is a category of non-violent criminal conduct typically committed in a business, professional, or financial context — for example fraud, embezzlement, insider trading, securities violations, money laundering, tax evasion, bribery, and bank fraud. White collar cases are usually investigated by specialized agencies (the FBI, SEC, DOJ in the U.S.; RCMP, OSC, FINTRAC in Canada), often involve large volumes of financial records and electronic evidence, and frequently carry serious consequences including imprisonment, restitution, asset forfeiture, and professional licensing impacts.
Do not speak with investigators without counsel present, even if you are told you are not a target. Anything you say can be used against you, and white collar investigations frequently start with subjects who have been described as witnesses. Politely decline to speak, ask for the investigator’s name and contact information, and call defense counsel immediately. Do not destroy, alter, or move any documents or electronic files — preservation obligations may already be in place, and document destruction is itself a separate criminal offense. Contact us as soon as practicable.
Yes. Communications between you and your defense lawyer are protected by solicitor-client privilege (Canada) and attorney-client privilege (United States). These protections apply from the very first conversation, including initial intake calls, regardless of whether you ultimately retain the firm. The privilege protects the substance of your communications from being compelled in court or investigations, with very narrow exceptions. We discuss the scope and limits of privilege at the start of every engagement.